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La Fête du ChampagneCode: PEARL
Modern Japanese Hand Rolls & Grill
← Collection
Los Angeles, United States

Sama Hand Roll / Grill

CuisineJapanese, Sushi
Opened2024
Price$30–50per person
ReservationsRecommended

Our verdict

Sama Hand Roll / Grill is worth booking for a lively Arts District meal built around hand rolls, grill items, and izakaya-style plates rather than a formal tasting menu. At about $40 per person, it is strongest for solo diners, dates, and small groups who want counter energy and modern Japanese cooking without a long, high-ceremony format.

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Sama Hand Roll / Grill restaurant in Los Angeles, United States

The menu

What to order

  • Creative hand rolls
  • Grilled skewers
  • Sashimi
  • Izakaya-style hot dishes
See the current menu on samahandroll.la →
About

Who should choose it, and who should skip it

Frequently asked questions

Is Sama Hand Roll / Grill worth the price?

Yes, if you want a casual modern Japanese meal at around $40 per person in Los Angeles. The price makes sense for a meal built around creative hand rolls, grilled skewers, sashimi, and izakaya-style hot dishes in a lively, intimate setting.

Can I eat at the bar at Sama Hand Roll / Grill?

Yes, the 14-seat hand roll bar is a core part of the setup. The open kitchen and small-room format are central to the experience, especially if you want the meal to feel direct and focused.

What should a first-timer know about Sama Hand Roll / Grill?

Expect a small, casual Japanese spot in Los Angeles with a lively, modern feel, an open kitchen, and respectful, welcoming service. The highlights are creative hand rolls, grilled skewers, sashimi, and izakaya-style hot dishes.

Is lunch or dinner better at Sama Hand Roll / Grill?

Both are possible on operating days. Sama Hand Roll / Grill is closed Monday, then serves 12–2:30 PM and 5–9 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday, with evening hours extending to 10 PM on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

What should I order at Sama Hand Roll / Grill?

Start with creative hand rolls, then add grilled skewers or sashimi if you want a fuller meal. The menu strengths also include izakaya-style hot dishes, so ordering across those categories is the clearest way to experience the restaurant.

Is the tasting menu worth it at Sama Hand Roll / Grill?

The information highlights modern Japanese hand rolls and grill items rather than a tasting-menu format. If you are choosing Sama Hand Roll / Grill, focus on the creative hand rolls, grilled skewers, sashimi, and izakaya-style hot dishes.

Is Sama Hand Roll / Grill good for a special occasion?

Yes, for a low-key special occasion in Los Angeles, especially if you want a small, lively, modern Japanese spot rather than a formal dining room. The 14-seat hand roll bar, open kitchen, and intimate atmosphere give it a sense of occasion without making it feel stiff.

Details
Vibe
  • Lively
  • Modern
  • Trendy
  • Industrial
  • Intimate
Best For
  • Date Night
  • Casual Hangout
  • After Work
  • Group Dining
  • Solo
  • Special Occasion
Experience
  • Chefs Counter
  • Open Kitchen
  • Design Destination
  • Standalone
Drink Program
  • Craft Cocktails
  • Sake Program
Sourcing
  • Sustainable Seafood
  • Local Sourcing
Views
  • Street Scene
Menu Format
  • A La Carte
  • Counter Dining
  • Small Plates
Drinks Focus
  • Cocktails
  • Sake
Noise LevelLively
CapacitySmall
Service StyleUpscale Casual
Meal PacingStandard
KitchenModern
Wine ProgramStandard
Visit details

Current opening hours

Monday
Closed
Tuesday
12–2:30 PM, 5–9 PM
Wednesday
12–2:30 PM, 5–9 PM
Thursday
12–2:30 PM, 5–10 PM
Friday
12–2:30 PM, 5–10 PM
Saturday
12–2:30 PM, 5–10 PM
Sunday
12–2:30 PM, 5–9 PM

Hours can change for holidays and private events. Last verified .

A small, casual Japanese spot in Downtown LA’s Arts District with a 14-seat hand roll bar, open kitchen design, and a lively, modern atmosphere focused on respectful, welcoming service.