Koi

Critic's rating

1.0 of 4 stars

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Neighborhood: Melrose
730 N. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90069
310-659-9449
http://koirestaurant.com

Hours:
Sun.-Thurs. 6 p.m.-11 p.m.,
Fri.-Sat. 6 p.m.-12 a.m.
Price Range: $$$$ ($21-$29)
Cuisine: Sushi, Steaks, Japanese, Seafood

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Parking: Valet
Outdoor Dining, Celeb-spotting, Trendy, Online Menu, People Watching, Specialty Cocktails, Upscale High Energy, Celeb-Spotting, Bar Scene, Upscale Bustling Outdoor Seating, Private Parties Banquets, Wheelchair Accessible

Tucked behind a tall bamboo fence, Koi would be nondescript if not for the flashbulbs of paparazzi lurking outside. It’s become a young Hollywood favorite for its homey atmosphere and its easy menu of Japanese small plates and sushi (crispy rice topped with spicy tuna is the house favorite). A table in the back patio is most desirable (probably because you can look into the rest of the restaurant from the back booths) but a seat at the sushi bar is more fun. It’s a ‘reservations required’ kind of place, sending those without a reservation along to The Belmont or The Spanish Kitchen, both within walking distance. But newcomer and neighbor STK may steal some of Koi’s heat.

TIPS: If you haven’t been able to snag a reservation, show up at 7:30 or earlier, when the restaurant accepts walk-ins for the sushi bar and lounge areas—full menu available in both places.