Shunji Japanese Cuisine
$$$$ • Japanese, Sushi Bars, Vegetarian
Hours:
3003 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica
(310) 826-4737
About Shunji Japanese Cuisine
Customers' Favorites
Shunji Japanese Cuisine Reviews
Ratings
Menu


Hours
Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | 6 - 8PM |
Wednesday | 5 - 8PM |
Thursday | 5 - 8PM |
Friday | 5 - 8PM |
Saturday | 5 - 8PM |
Sunday | Closed |
Shunji Japanese Cuisine offers an intimate and personalized omakase experience, where diners can choose to book a meal with either Chef Shunji or his longtime co-chef, Chef Miko. The sushi counter is divided into two small rooms, each with a handful of seats, creating a cozy and exclusive atmosphere.
The heart of Shunji’s allure lies in its sushi, showcasing decades of expertise as one of Los Angeles’ sushi pioneers. The nigiri pieces are presented simply, allowing the quality and freshness of the fish to shine. Highlights include lean, marinated tuna aged for two weeks, warm black throat perch that's barely seared, and beautifully plump uni from Santa Barbara. Each piece is delicately balanced and thoughtfully plated, reflecting the chef's meticulous attention to detail. The chefs are praised for their excellent skills, and diners are encouraged to book whichever is available first, as reservations tend to fill up quickly. Pro tip: If Hokkaido uni is offered that day, it should not be missed.
While the service is generally attentive and welcoming, there have been some inconsistencies with the waitstaff, with a few diners noting they had to remind staff to refill their tea or attend to requests when the restaurant was not full. Nonetheless, Shunji Japanese Cuisine is considered a fantastic choice for special occasions, with high-quality sushi and a serene ambiance, making it more than just a restaurant; it is a destination for a refined sushi experience.