This is probably one of the best shabu shabu restaurants you’ll eat in. It’s a very popular Japanese restaurant, but unfortunately they don’t take reservations, so be prepared to wait an hour or two during peak times. It’s very small and easily gets crowded, however, the food is absolutely terrific. It’s a nice place to go when it’s cold outside and you need something to warm you up.

The meat comes very thinly sliced and the veggies are delicious. Many of the orders come with some veggies, udon, rice, as well as dipping sauce. Be sure to order the large, because although 15 slices of meat can seem like a lot, they are very, very thinly sliced.

It’s a bit pricey, but it’s definitely an experience to be had. Bottom line is that it’s a great place to go, but the fact that it’s small and the wait is long means that you’ll have to be super patient. On the upside, the owner is friendly and the wait staff does their best to try to get people in and out as fast as possible.

Shabu Shabu House Restaurant
(213) 680-3890
127 Japanese Village Plz Mall
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Tue-Sun 11.30am to 2pm
Tue-Sun 5.30 to 9.30pm

Ceviche, the Latin American version of sushi is becoming more and more popular. If raw fish isn’t to your taste, then not to worry, because they have plenty of other dishes to try. Their fish taco is incredibly popular as are their quesadillas. You really should try a seafood dish or two at La Cevicheria. If you do decide to open for a ceviche, try the bloody clam dish (conchas negras) it’s out of this world. Be sure to save room for dessert, their tres leches is sweet and will melt in your mouth.

The downside is that the area is a bit sketchy, so all the more reason to go with a group of friends to try their delicious dishes. Also, the restaurant is pretty small, so a bit hard to find, and there’s not a lot of parking available. However, the food more than makes up for these downfalls and you certainly can’t beat the prices. The fish tacos will only set you back about five bucks and they’re authentic and all their food is so fresh it could probably walk off the plate.

La Cevicheria has a lot to offer as far as low prices, large portions, fresh food, and friendly staff. Of course, this being a Latin American restaurant, if there’s a soccer game on, you can bet it will be on they will turn the TV on. If you’re sick of the same old-same old, then check out La Cevicheria, you won’t be disappointed.

La Cevicheria
3809 W Pico Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90019
(323) 732-1253
Tue-Thu, Sun 11am to 8pm
Fri-Sat 11am to 9pm

Every once in a while you’ve got to splurge on a special meal and what better way to do so than by eating sushi. Exotic, tasty, and filling, Sushi Zo at 9824 National Blvd provides fresh sushi omakase style with a variety of different fish, all of which are fantastic. Snag a seat at the bar so you can see the sushi chefs expertly preparing the dishes. Don’t just watch, get them involved in a conversation. They’re friendly, chatty and very knowledgeable about sushi. Service is fantastic. Your cup will always be filled and empty plates will be whisked away and replaced with your next order. Try the Akamutsu, Uni, or Baked Cod and you’ll see why Sushi Zo is so popular. The Yuzu Juice at the end of the meal is a fantastic way to finish everything off.

The downside is that it’s a bit difficult to find and very very small, so make sure you make a reservation if you don’t want to be waiting for a long time.

This place provides quality food and service and because of that you’re going to be paying for it. Expect to pay about $80 to $150 per person at Sushi Zo. So, while it might not be some place you go on a regular basis, it’s a wonderful place to celebrate a special occasion.

Sushi Zo
9824 National Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90034
(310) 842-3977
Mon-Fri 12pm to 2pm
Mon-Sat 5.30pm to 9.30pm