My Sushi 101 experience in 2024 left me disheartened, and I feel compelled to share my story, particularly due to what I believe may be racially motivated behavior. Seeking a moment of respite after work, I entered the restaurant with a simple request for green tea. The initial interaction with the host was unremarkable, but as I perused the menu, a server persistently pressured me to order food. After a mere five minutes, I was abruptly asked to leave, despite only two other patrons in the nearly empty restaurant at 6 pm.To exacerbate the situation, I sensed uncomfortable stares directed at me as I sat there, leading me to question whether my race played a role in the treatment I received. It's disheartening that such incidents can still occur in 2024, highlighting the need for continued awareness and change. The ambiance, with an unpleasant odor reminiscent of a senior home and worn-out furniture, added to the unwelcoming atmosphere. This, coupled with the perceived racial undertones, left me questioning the establishment's commitment to fair treatment.I strongly discourage others from dining at Sushi 101. Choose an alternative with a more inviting atmosphere, and be aware of potential racial biases when considering this establishment. Eat at Sushi 101 at your own risk, recognizing that incidents like this shouldn't persist in the current times.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Craig Radow
I ate here once a week for 10+ years (then moved). The best authentic Japanese izakaya and sushi bar in valley if not city.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Briana Goldman
Best Sushi in the
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Spicy Albacore, Spicy Albacore Roll, Sashimi, Regular Miso Soup, Spicy Tuna Roll, Spicy Yellowtail Roll, Green Salad with House Dressing
Salvador G.
Do you want a romantic dinner. Reservations are taken by Thursday for Mondays special omakase.
Tetsu Y.
I just went back to Sushi 101 in 19 years apart! Yes, they have "special of the day" menu still going on !!! Sushi & Sashimi are always Fresh & they offer other Japanese authentic specialties... even Soba or Ramen and They do "Monday Omakase Night" I just made a reservation for coming Monday!(Thursday is the deadline to make your reservation for next Monday) I really recommend this restaurant for all Japanese Food Lovers.
Lorenzo S.
In the world of Studio City sushi, this Mom 'n Pop shop deserves all the praise. Hidden in a strip mall at the north end of Studio City, Sushi 101 delivers on all fronts. From the welcoming & kind service to the down to earth, comfortable ambiance - this place should and deserves to be a favorite. The fish is always fresh & delicious. Their mushroom miso soup soothes the soul. The happy hour is fantastic as well. I've had nothing but great meals and experiences here. The chef and server are seriously awesome. I plan to come for many years, and these folks deserve to be here for many years as well. Thanks, Sushi 101!!
Barbara B.
THE best place for sushi in the valley.Toshiis a master sushi chef and his staff is wonderful! The fish is fresh and the daily specials very tasty. Authentic Japanese food and people.
Peter Caviar
Fresh fish and delicious mochi. But what steals the show is the welcoming staff that just makes ya feel all warm and fuzzy. Where else can you find a beer for $4 in LA? 5 stars for that alone.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Rick Chertoff
I once asked a Japanese friend at the gym which sushi place he would recommend, so we've been going to 101 for 20 years since. So if you like "Un-slick" and cheaper by a lot in an ugly strip mall…. It reminds me of the place in Tokyo in the series "Midnight Diner" on Netflix. It has achieved "not trying/Is" -ness.Last night we ordered a generous amount in an a la carte variety that included items we’ve never had, like Yellowtail collar, and mushroom Miso soup, for example. All served quickly with excellent taste.My wife asked me to guess the price and I guessed $45 and it was $35, including beer. They were about 75% filled on a Friday night at 6:30. So if you want quality and you have an accepting attitude… They won't yell "Ohai-O!" when you come in, just a warm welcome.My favorite "tell" is that you have to step over an unceremonious drainpipe three feet directly in front of the front door. The place is like one of those famous Japanese teacups with the rough finish "mistake" i.e. “wabi sabi” glaring out at you lovingly. The whole place says “wabi sabi” come to think of it. Their unglamorous friendliness is refreshing.Btw, Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie were playing softly in the background as we walked in. Louis Armstrong and other early Jazz was also played. Who does that? I think Joni Mitchell and Elvis C. might go there buy not Elton John, if you get my drift.Try it. Or don't, because I love it 75% full, but 85% wouldn't wreak it. I only risk telling you because we love them and feel better saying so out loud.Parking: It's in the least glamorous strip mall in Studio City. The nail salon and cleaners are closed so never a problem.
Great place for AYCE Sushi! The rolls arrive very fast to your table ? you have 3 Rounds! So u better order all you can in the 1st and use the other to repeat or try small amount of new flavors ?
Jeremy G.
If this is the Sushi 101 on Moorpark in North Hollywood, CA I haven't eaten there in 12 years. It was the best & finest sushi in the San Fernando Valley. Looks like they have uphold that reputation by the current reviews.
Rus K.
We've been regulars at this sushi place for over a year. The food is perfect for people who prefer fresh and simple sushi without too many sugary sauces. The service is outstanding. Moto is always polite, friendly and attentive. The hand rolls are an outstanding deal. I personally like the Ikura and spicy albacore rolls.
Candace Lee
Loved this neighborhood restaurant. The food is authentic and not overpriced. The sashimi is very fresh, too.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Sashimi
Ling C.
Love this place ! Very authentic Japanese food with real sushi chef here. Good quality fishies and seafood. So glad I found this gem in this area.
My Sushi 101 experience in 2024 left me disheartened, and I feel compelled to share my story, particularly due to what I believe may be racially motivated behavior. Seeking a moment of respite after work, I entered the restaurant with a simple request for green tea. The initial interaction with the host was unremarkable, but as I perused the menu, a server persistently pressured me to order food. After a mere five minutes, I was abruptly asked to leave, despite only two other patrons in the nearly empty restaurant at 6 pm.To exacerbate the situation, I sensed uncomfortable stares directed at me as I sat there, leading me to question whether my race played a role in the treatment I received. It's disheartening that such incidents can still occur in 2024, highlighting the need for continued awareness and change. The ambiance, with an unpleasant odor reminiscent of a senior home and worn-out furniture, added to the unwelcoming atmosphere. This, coupled with the perceived racial undertones, left me questioning the establishment's commitment to fair treatment.I strongly discourage others from dining at Sushi 101. Choose an alternative with a more inviting atmosphere, and be aware of potential racial biases when considering this establishment. Eat at Sushi 101 at your own risk, recognizing that incidents like this shouldn't persist in the current times.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
I ate here once a week for 10+ years (then moved). The best authentic Japanese izakaya and sushi bar in valley if not city.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Best Sushi in the
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Spicy Albacore, Spicy Albacore Roll, Sashimi, Regular Miso Soup, Spicy Tuna Roll, Spicy Yellowtail Roll, Green Salad with House Dressing
Do you want a romantic dinner. Reservations are taken by Thursday for Mondays special omakase.
I just went back to Sushi 101 in 19 years apart! Yes, they have "special of the day" menu still going on !!! Sushi & Sashimi are always Fresh & they offer other Japanese authentic specialties... even Soba or Ramen and They do "Monday Omakase Night" I just made a reservation for coming Monday!(Thursday is the deadline to make your reservation for next Monday) I really recommend this restaurant for all Japanese Food Lovers.
In the world of Studio City sushi, this Mom 'n Pop shop deserves all the praise. Hidden in a strip mall at the north end of Studio City, Sushi 101 delivers on all fronts. From the welcoming & kind service to the down to earth, comfortable ambiance - this place should and deserves to be a favorite. The fish is always fresh & delicious. Their mushroom miso soup soothes the soul. The happy hour is fantastic as well. I've had nothing but great meals and experiences here. The chef and server are seriously awesome. I plan to come for many years, and these folks deserve to be here for many years as well. Thanks, Sushi 101!!
THE best place for sushi in the valley.Toshiis a master sushi chef and his staff is wonderful! The fish is fresh and the daily specials very tasty. Authentic Japanese food and people.
Fresh fish and delicious mochi. But what steals the show is the welcoming staff that just makes ya feel all warm and fuzzy. Where else can you find a beer for $4 in LA? 5 stars for that alone.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I once asked a Japanese friend at the gym which sushi place he would recommend, so we've been going to 101 for 20 years since. So if you like "Un-slick" and cheaper by a lot in an ugly strip mall…. It reminds me of the place in Tokyo in the series "Midnight Diner" on Netflix. It has achieved "not trying/Is" -ness.Last night we ordered a generous amount in an a la carte variety that included items we’ve never had, like Yellowtail collar, and mushroom Miso soup, for example. All served quickly with excellent taste.My wife asked me to guess the price and I guessed $45 and it was $35, including beer. They were about 75% filled on a Friday night at 6:30. So if you want quality and you have an accepting attitude… They won't yell "Ohai-O!" when you come in, just a warm welcome.My favorite "tell" is that you have to step over an unceremonious drainpipe three feet directly in front of the front door. The place is like one of those famous Japanese teacups with the rough finish "mistake" i.e. “wabi sabi” glaring out at you lovingly. The whole place says “wabi sabi” come to think of it. Their unglamorous friendliness is refreshing.Btw, Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie were playing softly in the background as we walked in. Louis Armstrong and other early Jazz was also played. Who does that? I think Joni Mitchell and Elvis C. might go there buy not Elton John, if you get my drift.Try it. Or don't, because I love it 75% full, but 85% wouldn't wreak it. I only risk telling you because we love them and feel better saying so out loud.Parking: It's in the least glamorous strip mall in Studio City. The nail salon and cleaners are closed so never a problem.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Amazing food and the cutest vibe!
Restaurantji Recommends
Great place for AYCE Sushi! The rolls arrive very fast to your table ? you have 3 Rounds! So u better order all you can in the 1st and use the other to repeat or try small amount of new flavors ?
If this is the Sushi 101 on Moorpark in North Hollywood, CA I haven't eaten there in 12 years. It was the best & finest sushi in the San Fernando Valley. Looks like they have uphold that reputation by the current reviews.
We've been regulars at this sushi place for over a year. The food is perfect for people who prefer fresh and simple sushi without too many sugary sauces. The service is outstanding. Moto is always polite, friendly and attentive. The hand rolls are an outstanding deal. I personally like the Ikura and spicy albacore rolls.
Loved this neighborhood restaurant. The food is authentic and not overpriced. The sashimi is very fresh, too.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Sashimi
Love this place ! Very authentic Japanese food with real sushi chef here. Good quality fishies and seafood. So glad I found this gem in this area.