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Culinary Connection
Takami Sushi & Robata Bar
By Lark Aldrin-Clement
With valet parking on an unassuming side street, you might look all around for a fancy sushi restaurant only to discover that you have to walk through the lobby of one of the downtown Los Angeles hi-rises and take a quiet elevator ride up to the 21st floor. The doors open and you walk in to a vibrating techno music pulse and trendy environment with people dressed to impress. Although it has stylish patrons, this restaurant lacks the elitist Hollywood manner that most are trying to avoid.
With a Japanese inspired décor, Takami houses a driftwood constructed lounge area, a sushi bar, and long rows of booths with awe inspiring views of downtown Los Angeles. For those late nighters, a dance club called "Elevate" is located adjacent to Takami and is operated by the same management team.
As you sit at the bar, try one of the specialty drinks, such as the "Lotus Blossom Martini" ($14). Adorned with an orchid, this concoction is made with pear flavored Grey Goose vodka, hana lychee sake, lime juice, and lychee juice in a chilled martini glass. With a generous sprig of mint, the "Lychee Mojito" ($14) is a nice twist on the Cuban drink also blended with hana lychee sake and fresh lychee fruit.
For a suitable appetizer, the "Takami Endamame" ($6) is a delicious interpretation of the traditional soy bean dish sautéed with garlic, butter, and soy sauce. Warm and sumptuous, you'll never eat cold soy beans again. From the "signature rolls" list, try the "Lobster Wrap" ($14). The rice paper wrap is full of tangy meat, avocado, and cucumber, served with warm kimisu sauce. Although it's slipper lobster, the wrap is tasty with subtle flavor. For something a little more exciting, the "Sweet Scallop Present" may entice all your senses ($16). An egg wrap with a doughy texture, you open this package which is literally wrapped like a present with a bow, and reveals sweet tempura bay scallops that can be dipped in the eel sauce that adorns it.
For a taste of more traditional raw fish, the "Spicy Tuna on Crispy Rice" ($14) topped with avocado and jalapeno is a delicious creation, and almost acts like a cleansing of the palate. For those who are looking for Nigiri sushi, the "Salmon" ($5) does not disappoint as the pink and fleshy consistency melts like butter on the tongue. Complementing the variety of Asian fusion dishes, Takami has a Japanese grill called "Robata". You can order skewers of all sorts of meats and vegetable with dipping sauces. A delectable choice is the "Filet Mignon and Foie Gras" paired with the "Asparagus" ($4). Perfectly grilled and accompanied by truffle sauce for the filet, and champagne yuzu for the tender spears.
To conclude, have a Cappuccino along with the "Japanese Tiramisu". It is an Asian interpretation of the traditional Italian dessert with lady fingers soaked in vodka and green tea and topped with tofu mascarpone. With a unique flavor, this dessert is absolutely delicious.
Takami is an edgy restaurant that combines a traditional sushi restaurant with the creative artistry of executive chef Kenny Yamada. Although there is a romantic feel, Takami seems best for a group gathering. With scintillating décor, thumping music, and a tantalizing menu, this restaurant definitely "elevates" and raises the bar on imaginative creations with food.
Takami Sushi & Robata Bar
811 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 2100
Los Angeles, CA 90071
(213) 236-9600
www.takamisushi.com