Imari

Washoku in Brentwood

ONE OF THE HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOODS IN L.A. COUNTY NOW HOSTS ONE OF THE HIPPEST NEW RESTAURANTS OFFERING TRADITIONAL JAPANESE CUISINE.

By Monique Reidy

Imari, from Restaurateur Philip Camino, opened in August of 2021, and along with Chef Derek Wilcox, who was classically trained at 3-Michelin Starred Kikunoi in Kyoto, Japan, is already catching the attention of the SoCal foodie community.

The success of a dining establishment is the quality of its food as well as how comfortable guests feel during their visit. Imari’s elegant but minimal atmosphere is a perfect setting for those who meet to finalize a business transaction or for that important first date.

A floor-to-ceiling hand-painted mural, created by artist Sheila Darcey and Mr. Camino, features waves and an ocean inspired by both Japanese and Californian coastlines. The casual, friendly ambiance is a diner’s first impression of Imari. But when the creatively designed food arrives at the table, and at the first bite of the delectable menu, it’s clear that this is not just any Japanese food, it’s washoku at its best.

Chef Derek uses the finest and freshest ingredients to prepare his signature dishes, importing seasonal seafood and authentic ingredients from Japan. The secret to Imari’s appeal is how the Japanese culture emerges through its traditional dishes.

Starters like Moro-kyu, four cucumber assortments and brown rice miso, as well as the salad of shaved daikon, set the tone for great conversation. The menu selections are meant to be shared, and dishes like the Kagoshima wagyu or Anago and leek tempura are two of the most popular.

“The secret to Imari’s appeal is how the Japanese culture emerges through its traditional dishes.”

Imari’s wine list, curated by Sommelier Scott Lester, is broad and offers samples from a variety of international wine regions. The restaurant’s sake program features an array of options from Japan, available by the glass or carafe. Premium Japanese beers as well as a curated selection of artisan waters are also available.

The restaurant features 28 seats in the dining room, eight at the bar, and 22 in the outdoor patio, and reservations can be made via Tock.com. While the entire menu is not available for takeout or delivery, Imari's popular Bento Boxes can be ordered via Postmates, DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats. v

IMARI 13050 San Vicente Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90049 www.imari-la.com @imari.la.