Sushi Zone

Sushi is something I've learned to have a great respect for over the past couple years. I'll admit, I used to think sushi was spider and dragon rolls, but have really learned to appreciate the delicacy and uniqueness of each piece of nigiri. Although Sushi Zo in LA takes the title for the best sushi I've ever had, Sushi Zone comes a very close second. The best thing about "the zone," is that is offers a very good product at an effective price. Its very hard to find an affordable very good sushi place, and for that I have to credit my friend Pepper for introducing me to the zone. We always leave STUFFED of nigiri, rolls, sake and beer for less than $50 per person. The one downside to this place is that it's very small, fitting about only 16 people, half of which are at the bar, and there's a long wait anytime you go. In fact, we always plan accordingly arriving at 4:30 PM and sitting in line awaiting their opening at 5. It's not an ideal dinner time, but its worth it, otherwise you're always waiting for 1.5 hours. 

During our last visit, we over ordered as usual. We started with two appetizers, baked sea bass with mango and hamachi kama. 

Baked mango sea bass

Rich, creamy, sea bass and mayo mixed with sweet fresh mango covered in a cheesy topping baked to perfection with a tiny a sprinkle of tobiko and squirt of lemon makes the whole wait worth it. One bite of the steamy hot dish will make you an instant fan. Once you've had this dish, you miss it, you think about it when you're hungry and are angry at those remind you about it. In one word, it's legendary. 

Hamachi Kama

Now that I've oversold the place, next was the Hamachi Kama. It was very good, the premium portion of the fish, lightly covered in soy and lemon juices, the fish collar was sweet, soft and delectable. 

Sushi Rolls

Nigiri

The Zone offers a variety of unique sushi rolls that I haven't seen at other sushi bars. Some of our regular orders include the Spicy Hamachi roll, Hawaiian #2 (yes there is a Hawaiian #1), and the Indian roll.  The Spicy Hamachi is the staple favorite, a good level of spice, chucks of hamachi and fresh lime and watercrest, simply amazing. The Hawaiian #2 is filled with albacore, mango topped with large macadamia nuts and is also a crowd pleaser. The Indian roll on this visit was less successful with tough slivers of tako and avocado. We've also had the spicy tuna, spicy scallop and spicy salmon rolls. 

Sushi plate #1

The nigiri are always large thick cuts of fresh fish and vary topped by fragrant lime, ginger or green onion. Admittedly, sometimes the fish is fresher than other times, but on this visit, the standout was the sake and was smooth,fatty and divine.

Sushi Plate # 2

For good measure, we ordered another plate of sushi and additional nigiri. One common pitfall of the Zone is the lack of variety, usually not armed with any kanpachi, hirame, or other second tier basics. Each time they do have a special item, I usually give it a try and it's hit or miss. 

Overall, they offer great sushi at affordable prices, a friendly staff (the same waitress) and I always have a good time with friends when we're here.

Rating 9/10

May 22, 2010