New “Sushi Gem” - Takumi Restaurant
This 6 month old sushi place is medium sized, not cramped like Komaso or Hama, and has a nice bright, modern interior. I have only been for dinner (about 3 times a week lately) and have never had to wait, but I expect that lunch is much busier. It’s in the heart of Little Tokyo, at the entrance to the Japanese Village Center on the north side of 2nd St. (333 E. 2nd St.).
The main sushi chef is Hiro- he was the chef at Sushi Gen for 8 years so he has a great reputation. Shin is the other sushi chef and he is very friendly and helpful on what selections are best on any given day. And in all my visits, I’ve only seen one waitress, the lovely and efficient Kayoko. For all I know, these 3 are the only people that work at Takumi, and they do an excellent job of keeping the patrons happy (oh, I think I saw a dishwasher poke his head out once…).
Takumi’s sushi is the best that I’ve had downtown so far, but I am not incredibly adventurous menu-wise and base my opinions mostly on Toro, Yellow Tail, Albacore, and Salmon nigari and sashimi offerings. I highly recommend Shin’s “Hama-peno” sashimi- yellow tail tuna (hamachi) with slivers of jalepeno and an excellent sauce. The way Shin prepares the red snapper is very tasty too. But I am not a fan of exotics like uni (sea urchin) and giant clams, etc. so I cannot vouch for those items.
As for prices, I cannot quote exact item prices, but it is a little more expensive than the places nearby such as Hama, Komasa, Frying Fish, etc. But you get what you pay for- I am hooked, and do not mind paying a little more for the great quality and service. Just in round numbers, I spend about $45-50 by myself, which includes a couple of beers or a cold saki, and I’ve had a great dinner for 2 for about $85 (this is dinner time, and I believe they have special priced combinations and lunch specials).
I’m going to take some pics down there when I remember to bring my camera and will update this post, as the place is very light and airy, with a nice view of the activity at the entrance to the Japanese Village Center.
Takumi Restaurant Menu (make sure you check out the other reviews, especially THIS ONE)