Who says that aesthetic value and functionality are mutually exclusive? At funky R23, housed in an Arts District warehouse, such distinctions are blurred as you sit on chairs made of corrugated cardboard (designed by Frank Gehry) and dine on artfully sliced sashimi cuts upon colorful ceramic platters. Exposed brick walls, paintings of Gauguin-esque figures and high ceilings enhance the open, gallery-like feel of the interior. Superior cuts of fish include both bigeye and bluefin tuna, black snapper, and jumbo clam. R23 excels as well with outstanding lobster tempura, and bay scallops sautéed with shiitake mushrooms. Beer, wine and sake available. Serving lunch Mon–Fri, dinner Mon–Sat. Closed Sun.
Where the Locals Eat Rating
Local Favorite
"This gallery-like space in Downtown's out-of-the-way warehouse/artist loft district has been the secret of sushi connoisseurs since 1991 and has consistently ranked as one of the city's top sushi restaurants."
—Frommer's
"This hidden gem is difficult to find, but it's worth the adventure. ... The ever-changing menu offers some of the freshest fish in town, prepared with impeccable precision. Foodies make frequent pilgrimages to this white-hot spot."
—Mobil Travel Guide
"The cooked food is what sets the 11-year-old restaurant apart. Those dishes are made with flair. Some are on the menu, but most are on the page of specials."
– S. Irene Virbila, Los Angeles Times
How others rate R23
Zagat 2009
26 food rating (extraordinary to perfection)
Los Angeles Times
** (very good)
Frommer's
** (very highly recommended)