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  • Hide Sushi

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    January 8th, 2009JonahUncategorized

    Hide is the Southwest Airlines of Sushi Bars. Low frills, very reasonable prices, you will probably stand around for a while to get a seat, but in the end you arrive with your sushi craving satisfied.

    I suspect that part of the reason that Hide offers reasonable priced sushi is the high turnover of tables. Southwest keeps their planes flying as much as possible and the sushi chefs at Hide turn out the orders with flying knives and quick fingers. A sushi purist may complain at the lack of ceremony, but a sushi purist probably also complains when Southwest flight attendants sign over the intercom.

    Just like you will get the best seat on your flight by checking in as early as possible, your best bet for a short wait at Hide is to get there early. Although they turn over tables quickly, the good prices and quality fish ensure that there is almost always a wait list after the first seating.

    A couple notes for when you are waiting. First, you can order a beer from the hostess to enjoy while you are standing around. Second, Hide is cash only. If you didn’t bring cash, there is an ATM on site, but depending on your bank, you’re going to pay some extra fees using it.

    I have called in some take out sushi from Hide on occasion and have been pleased with the presentation and freshness. Of course, parking is tight in the Sawtelle area, so just park a couple blocks west and walk through the neighborhood. Do be mindful of parking restrictions though. I think I got a parking ticket in front of a church one night because I was in the loading zone.

    I don’t recommend going to Hide with more that four in your party, the logistics of putting together large tables are not favorable in the small space.

    If you can get a spot at the bar, I suggest sitting there. Service is quickest since you’re going right to the source. On the floor, waitresses are generally slammed and work to keep up with the fast pace.

    Hide Sushi
    2040 Sawtelle Blvd
    Los Angeles, 90025

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4 Responses to “Hide Sushi”

  1. i’ve always wanted to go here, but to your point, there’s always a hideous wait (no pun intended) do you have any idea what time they open? nowadays, it’s the earlier the better for us since we have baby in tow. (i’m sure you can relate-LOL!)

  2. Pam- Hide is open for lunch, so I think they are open all day (I don’t think they close down between meals). You’re right, it can be a very hide-ous wait, which is not a whole lot of fun with a bambino.

    We haven’t been here post baby, but the noise level and casual atmosphere would make it a good spot. Although tight spaces require some consideration of where to put the little one.

  3. Not that you asked for my opinion, but this blog is seriously lacking in Los Angeles culinary credibility to due to its exclusive west-side focus. I can only speak for myself, but I certainly think my sentiment would be echoed by a large number of Los Angeles food blog readers who are looking for a little adventure. You’re going to have to venture East of Vine and South of the 10 to make this blog a must read. Here’s hoping you can uncover some gems for us foodies. I’ll certainly keep reading for a while to see. Thanks.

  4. Roy- Thanks, I do value your opinion. Unfortunately, I think you are going to be disappointed. Since I live in Santa Monica, the vast majority of my dining is on the Westside.

    I do have some spots outside of the Westside, but if you’re looking for something less focused on my region, this isn’t the place.

    I do welcome your readership, comments and suggestions as you see fit!

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