This eatery from Chefs/owners Phillip Frankland Lee and Margarita Kallas-Lee is no ordinary omakase spot. The nigiri are not just supremely finessed but also infused with original touches—like the dab of sweet corn “pudding” and sourdough breadcrumbs that coat slices of hamachi. Even traditional pairings become transcendent with his house-fermented soy sauce. The iconoclastic vibe extends to the beverages, including cocktails, sake, and beer. Despite such originality, this bar does indeed adhere strictly to one tradition: a mini counter with seating for just ten to ensure a deeply personalized experience. Your time here is bound to pass in a blissful haze of convivial chatter.
– The Michelin Guide
Phillip Frankland Lee’s sushi speakeasy—an omakase-style dinner served to 8 diners at a time.
L Tobias
Great, unique, chef-curated sushi. Fun, tasty & informative. Very exclusive experience (have to ring the doorbell to be allowed in). A little pricey for sushi & drinks, but great for a special occasion. This was my second time at this location. Will definitely be back. Highly recommend. Each private seating caters to 10 people at a time. Their Japanese whiskeys are really really good. Advance reservations are required. We booked our date 6 months in advance. An unforgettable sushi dining experience.
… moreIris Ray
I just got home from my dinner with Sushi by Scratch and immediately had to sing their praises. By far one of the most memorable restaurant experiences I’ve ever had. Each course felt like eating a work of art. I loved seeing the chef’s and bartender perform their craft. The Bee’s Japanese cocktail was so delicious, I had to have a second! My partner had the beverage pairing and loved it as well.
The way that the team orchestrated everything was beyond impressive to watch. I have so much respect for what they do. I wasn’t aware of the conversational style of the meal before I went into it, and even as someone who leans more introverted, everyone was so warm and inviting that I felt right at home. Any time I felt like tapping out of conversation, I would just watched the gentleman preparing food on our side of the bar and enjoy being mesmerized.
I’m unfortunately terrible with names, but we had the 6:45 reservation tonight and that whole crew deserves an extra round of applause. I hope to share another meal with them sometime!
… moreMike Khatchikian
Came here for a birthday and it was one of the best experiences ever. I will say they ruined sushi for us because now nothing tastes as good haha
10/10 recommend
… moreJason Hoffer
We dined once at the original Scratch Bar and once at Pasta Bar and this was our first time at Sushi Bar by Scratch and it did not disappoint. Yes, it is very expensive, but like Pasta Bar, you get an intimate culinary experience with outstanding dishes and pairings. There are only 10 diners at the sushi bar and we were lucky that the couple to the right and left of us were very social and down to earth, making the whole experience that much better. All the staff were fantastic. Professional, but not stuffy and very personable and attentive. The food was delicious and artfully presented. The drink and sake pairing were great as well. Great experience overall and I would recommend it for a splurge or special occasion meal. Keep up the great work Scratch restaurants!
… moreDerek Ashworth
We did the New years ever omakasi here and as usual everything was on point. The experience begins with entering into the welcome bar where you receive a welcome drink which was lovely Japanese whiskey cocktail, that was refreshing and delicious. Once the rest of the ten person seating guests arrived we received two opening appetizers that were both amazing and delicate . Once entering into the main sushi bar we negotiated what we were going to drink, we went for the special sake pairing, there was also a whiskey tasting and cocktails as well as beers. This was a great idea because the sakes truly were paired with perfection and described with a true knowledge of the notes we were going to get and the effects it would have on what we were going to be eating and he couldn’t have been more accurate. The tasting was 17 coarses 16 pieces of sushi and one desert . Every coarse was a masterfully crafted and layered work of art that when put into your mouth you immediately try to figure out how to keep it there forever so you don’t have to swallow it and it just disappears forever. I love coming here because I’m never disappointed where so many times at other sushi bars I will get something that’s too fishy or the uni isn’t fresh or something is just ok. Here it’s perfect every time and always a night to remember. Thank you to the the staff and chefs who work so hard to make this an experience to remember you truly are kicking ass.
… moreMaryam Khoshreza
Obviously the most delicious sushi we’ve had, i been to many Michelin star restaurants, but this sushi place is one the one that i will definitely go back again, a little bit pricey but definitely worth it to try, just go with the chef omakase and try everything, each piece of sushi is a piece of art, that they will make it in front of you, and because the time sensitive you have to grab them immediately and eat it, the ambiance was even better than the food, the chefs were so nice and friendly, they had a pre gaming experience before the dinner, make sure you get there half an hour before the dinner time, to relax and enjoy the experience. Overall was the best experience you can buy and enjoy! Loved the quality of the Uni, the Uni came directly from Japan as Chef told us, i would definitely recommend this place to everyone!
… morephil smith
This is one of the special places to visit if you are in for a fine Sushi treat. Getting to your final seating spot already is a great adventure. Try coming to your reservation a little earlier and enjoy a tasty cocktail at the bar before enjoying the food. All the different and modern interpreted sushi styles are from the highest quality you can imagine and the chefs give you a story on the composition – exciting! Extensive wine and sake menu which makes this a delight! Excellent service that ensures that you will have unforgettable „speakeasy“ adventure! Highly recommended.
… moreEthan Grabel
Sushi By Scratch in Encino has elevated my sushi dining experience to new heights, and I can confidently say that it is an absolute gem for sushi enthusiasts. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm hospitality and an inviting atmosphere.
The menu at Sushi By Scratch offers an extensive selection of fresh and high-quality sushi creations, showcasing the culinary artistry and expertise of their talented chefs. Each dish was beautifully presented, demonstrating a perfect balance of flavors and textures that left my taste buds dancing with delight.
The standout feature of this sushi establishment is their commitment to using only the finest ingredients. Every bite revealed the meticulous attention to detail and dedication to sourcing premium fish and other components. The freshness and quality were undeniable, elevating the entire dining experience.
The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Sushi By Scratch were more than happy to guide me through their menu. Their passion for sushi was evident, and their attention to customer satisfaction was outstanding.
The ambiance of the restaurant was inviting and comfortable, creating a pleasant dining environment. The attention to detail in the décor added to the overall charm of the establishment.
In addition to the exceptional sushi the restaurant provided impeccable service throughout my visit. The waitstaff was attentive, ensuring that every need was met and going the extra mile to ensure a memorable dining experience.
For sushi enthusiasts, Sushi By Scratch is an absolute must-visit. From the moment you step through the door, you are greeted with an atmosphere of culinary excellence. Prepare to be amazed by the flavors, artistry, and overall dining experience that await you at this outstanding sushi destination.
… moreGillian Goldman
We had a private party for 10 at Scratch Sushi and it was divine!!! Not sure how it works if you go as a couple because this was a party and we had the whole place. Everything was beyond belief!! Can’t tell you what we had because they just gave us a fixed menu…tried to video what we had so check it out. If you are looking to have a phenomenal small dinner party ~ this place is phenomenal!!
… moreMelissa Alexander
Born and raised a self proclaimed food nerd and sushi obsessive I’m over the moon for Sushi Bar LA. Everything from the doorbell, the surprise seating, the personal care to cater to your preferences and the incredible inventive food make this a Michelin worthy restaurant. The sushi was so incredibly good that I felt tears welling up in my eyes eating it! As we were eating we booked dinner reservations for NYE! The team is amazing. This is definitely my favorite restaurant in LA now. Maybe my favorite restaurant of all time. Bravo!
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