Went to the new Nobu-LA last night with my gal. First, it's one hot scene. The decor is typical Dodd Mitchell-like; what you see all over LA these days. When you walk in there is a large bar area to the left and the restaurant to the right. The bar was relatively packed (and was brimming with a number of hotties -- this is going to be the place over the summer). There are really two sections to the restaurant. The main section is bright and airy and includes the sushi bar. Then there is a section off to the right with concrete floors that seemed like it was almost indoors/outdoors. We were not impressed with this room and thought it looked shabby.

The food was the same menu that you get at any Nobu. It's quite good but not impressive. The toro with caviar was quite tasty and the various flavors of sushi we tried were all good (but didn't blow me away by any means). With only a couple drinks each our bill came out to a shocking $260 with tip for two people and I didn't even think we ordered that much!

Needless to say, there is much better sushi in LA for a similar or lower price (e.g., Wa, Nishimura). Plus, I like the atmosphere at the other places better. This new Nobu is just too big and impersonal. I practically felt like I was at a sushi cafeteria. I probably wont be going back for the sushi. But definitely will hang at the bar over the summer.

PS: I wonder how badly this place is taking traffic away from Koi. . .

 

I've only been to the one in London, the original one on Park Lane. I have to agree that it's very impersonal. I prefer more intimate sushi joints (crammed in at the sushi bar ftw). And the service sucked donkeys. It does have a great view of Hyde Park if you can sit at the window. I guess I'll give the other Nobus a miss then.