MOTO AZABU SUSHI - Marina Del Rey

I typically wouldn’t recommend much of the food scene in Venice - it’s usually over priced, mediocre food that always leaves you unimpressed. But when one of your chef friends changes restaurants, you follow him wherever he goes. Moto Azabu isn’t a flashy restaurant by any means - it sits on the 2nd floor of random strip mall plaza on your way towards the beach but it really is the definition of a “diamond in the rough”. They have an expansive menu that caters to a wide crowd but I would strictly order all things sushi. The quality of the fish is A1. You’re getting the high end cuts without the stuffy environment that complex food can surround you with. I might sound picky but I think there’s a real science behind the rice to fish ratio when it comes to nigiri sushi. Less is more. That being said, the balance of vinegar and sugar in the rice needs to be just right or we got problems from jump street.

Inside the vibe is very mellow (I was there on a Sunday afternoon). There’s a outdoor patio with spacious seating in front of the restaurant and upon entry it splits to a traditional dining room and sushi bar. Prices are extremely reasonable - ranging from $6-$15 per 2 pieces of nigiri. My recommendation would be to sit at the sushi bar, ask for chef Jo-san and order your favorites! Lem him know that Taylor aka Kenzo-san sent you and he’ll charge you an extra 20%. Enjoy!

Appetizer Trio

- Octopus, Amberjack Sashimi, Roasted Duck Breast