kodo 710 South Santa Fe Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90021

"Kodo is undeniably a top 10 experience in the vibrant Los Angeles food scene, and let me tell you, I've been uncovering some culinary gems lately! So, how did I stumble upon Kodo? TikTok, of course! I've been saving places left and right to see if they live up to the hype, and Kodo? It's the real deal! The atmosphere at Kodo is nothing short of artwork. They've truly nailed the Japanese art scene motif in their decor. I've always had an appreciation for Japanese decorating style—it's minimalist, cozy, warm, and an art form in itself. Stepping into Kodo, you're greeted by a beautifully done space, and that massive volcanic rock they use as a desk? A showstopper! If Architecture Digest ever reviews restaurant decor, Kodo should be at the top of their list. Now, let's talk about the food – a solid 10 out of 10! Kudo has effortlessly secured its spot in my top 10 places to eat in Los Angeles. If you're after a sleek and minimalist dining experience for friends or guests, this is the place. I tried multiple dishes, from root chips to oysters, sushi, and risotto, and every single one was exceptional. What sets Kodo apart is their generosity with portions – perfect for sharing without worrying about leaving hungry. On top of the fantastic food, the staff on my visit were outstanding. They offered great suggestions, were attentive without being overbearing, and as I left, every staff member bid me farewell with a smile and a thank you. My entire experience at Kodo was delightful, and whether you're flying solo or with a group, Kodo is a must-visit destination. Trust me, this is a place you won't regret checking out!"

"Really enjoyed my time at Koto café in downtown LA. I got the cold Matcha, which was a really yummy. Matcha served in a cute little cup. And then I got a salmon dish with peanut noodles and it was so good.!! The service was phenomenal and I really love the ambience of this place. Definitely aesthetically pleasing for photos."

"I love Kodo Cafe! I recently went for lunch and the sushi was so fresh and I loved the selection, the outdoor seating was especially nice, but the decor in general is so unique and beautiful it really creates the best atmosphere. My server was especially attentive and knowledgeable. I always order an iced cortado and when she noticed it had a little too much milk she had it remade without me even asking. Love this neighborhood spot and would highly recommend."

"Visited LA for birthday week, had a great night! Uni pasta was so good we ordered an extra dish. Yuhi was our server he was very communicative would recommend this spot!! Also the atmosphere is super modern and cute"

"The evening began with a hospitable greeting from the hostess. The interior effortlessly melds Japanese aesthetics with a modern twist. The dimly lit space, adorned with Japanese-inspired decor, was a visual delight. Gray concrete, bonsai trees, high ceilings, warm wooden tones all help to shape the otherworldly ambiance. Whether you're on a date or out with friends, the vibe check is real. The menu, while promising on paper, left me feeling a bit underwhelmed. The sashimi was fresh, but the lack of creativity in presentation and flavor profiles was apparent. It was good but far from exceptional for raw fish in Los Angeles. I would stick with the warm dishes and even with those you need to be on top of your ordering game. The spicy tuna crispy rice and shishito peppers & potato hash were solid. The crispy, tender chicken pieces of the chicken garaage were seasoned well and paired wonderfully with a dipping sauce that added an extra layer of flavor. I had hoped the prime rib eye would be a highlight and despite its promising appearance, the meat was far from tender bordering on chewiness, and it left me wondering whether it had been undercooked or was the meat just below average quality. The two desserts ordered did manage to end the meal on a slightly higher note though it wasn't enough to fully redeem the earlier shortcomings. To be fair, I did appreciate the effort put into the presentation and the attentive service. Our server, while not as entertaining as some I've encountered, was still polite and prompt in delivering our dishes. The restaurant's ability to create a captivating atmosphere remains a standout feature, but the true essence of a restaurant lies in its food, and in this aspect it indeed falls short. The dishes lack the finesse, creativity, and flavor harmony that one might expect from a restaurant of this caliber, but it still serves as an appealing spot for those looking to enjoy a visually pleasing ambiance. It's a place where you might find a few savory gems, but overall, it left me craving more consistency and inspiration on the plate. Kodo, you have potential, but for now, you're still a work in progress on the culinary front."