Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Top 10

Destinations Worldwide

Must Visit

Guide to

Eat, Stay & Do

Rio de Janeiro

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

Best Smoothie Bowls

Travel Guide

Koh Kood

Island Escape

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Gardena

Sushi Sonagi in Gardena, CA, offers an exceptional omakase dining experience with a 19-course meal that showcases seasonal seafood selections, rice, soup, and desserts. The restaurant operates with two seatings per night, Friday through Sunday, and reservations are required. The ambiance is intimate, with only eight seats at the sushi bar, fostering a communal and inviting atmosphere. Chef Daniel Son, a second-generation sushi chef, is praised for his dedication to the craft and his ability to blend Japanese, Korean, and Californian flavors. The menu features unique dishes like Dolsot Seikogani (Crispy Stone Pot Rice with Hokkaido Female Snow Crab) and Miso Butter Atsuyaki Tamago. Patrons also appreciate the personal touches, such as handwritten thank-you notes and detailed dish descriptions.

Discover Sushi Sonagi Gardena The Ultimate Intimate Omakase Experience in California 

Nestled in the heart of Gardena, California, Sushi Sonagi offers an extraordinary sushi journey that food lovers and sushi aficionados won’t want to miss. This intimate 8-seat omakase restaurant delivers a carefully curated 19-course experience that blends fresh seasonal Japanese seafood with creative influences from Korean and Californian cuisines. Chef Daniel Son, a passionate second-generation sushi master, crafts each dish with a unique identity and meticulous attention to detail, inviting you to savor flavors and textures rarely found elsewhere in Los Angeles County.

An exclusive dining experience with personalized service

From the moment you arrive at the cozy spot on Artesia Boulevard, the atmosphere is warm, inviting, and perfect for engaging conversation. With only eight seats available per seating, guests enjoy an intimate setting where Chef Daniel and his wife provide attentive and friendly hospitality. The vibe is chill yet refined, making each visit feel like a special occasion. Seasonal ingredients are thoughtfully sourced, including local Californian produce alongside the freshest Japanese fish, resulting in a delightful crescendo of flavors that evolve throughout the meal.

Signature dishes to savor at Sushi Sonagi

The omakase menu is a sophisticated tour of seasonal delicacies, featuring exquisite dishes such as the Dolsot Seikogani — a crispy stone pot rice dish topped with Hokkaido female snow crab — and the delicate Miso Butter Atsuyaki Tamago. You’ll journey through a variety of hand-selected fish including amberjack, baby shrimp, eel, uni, and Toro handrolls, each paired elegantly with rice infused with red vinegar for a balanced taste profile. Notably, the menu excludes salmon and yellowtail to spotlight rarer species and highlight Chef Daniel’s innovative style.

What is the price of the omakase experience?

 The omakase experience is priced at $230 per person.

How many seats are available per seating?

 There are eight seats available per seating.

 There are two seatings per night, Friday through Sunday.

 Yes, the corkage fee is $45 per 720mL bottle.

 Yes, free parking is available in the strip mall where the restaurant is located.

The community sentiment surrounding Sushi Sonagi is overwhelmingly positive, with patrons praising the authenticity, quality, and the intimate atmosphere of the dining experience. Guests frequently mention the personal touches such as handwritten thank-you notes and the detailed descriptions of each dish, enhancing the feeling of exclusivity and care. The approachable yet skilled Chef Daniel makes conversation an integral part of the meal, creating a friendly and memorable ambiance. Many diners consider it a true hidden gem within the Gardena strip mall, worth every penny for the passion and attention poured into every dish.

To secure a spot at this sought-after omakase experience, reservations are required and can typically be made through platforms like Tock or Instagram. Sushi Sonagi operates with two seatings per night from Friday through Sunday, making early booking essential. The restaurant does not offer delivery or outdoor seating, but provides free parking options and accepts credit cards for convenience. Although it’s not suited for children or large groups, it is perfect for discerning adults seeking a relaxed and authentic sushi adventure in Gardena.

Experience the unique fusion of Japanese tradition and Californian freshness at Sushi Sonagi — where every bite tells a story and every meal becomes a cherished memory.

North America

United States

Nestled in the heart of Gardena, California, **Sushi Sonagi** offers an intimate dining experience that is a true hidden gem. With only eight seats available, this omakase restaurant is helmed by Chef Daniel, who brings a unique twist to traditional sushi. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it the perfect spot for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.

The omakase menu at Sushi Sonagi is a culinary journey that showcases the freshest seasonal ingredients. Two standout dishes include the delicate **amberjack sashimi**, paired with a hint of citrus that elevates its natural flavors, and the **uni handroll**, which melts in your mouth, delivering a rich umami experience. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, allowing diners to savor the intricate flavors that Chef Daniel has curated.

One of the most captivating aspects of Sushi Sonagi is its commitment to sourcing local ingredients, which not only supports the community but also enhances the freshness of each dish. Chef Daniel’s passion for sushi is evident in every bite, making this dining experience truly memorable. Guests often rave about the personal touch that comes from the chef and his wife, who together create a warm and welcoming environment.

What is the dining experience like at Sushi Sonagi?

The experience is intimate and personalized, with only eight seats available for diners. Chef Daniel curates a unique omakase menu that changes seasonally.

Reservations can be made through their Instagram or Tock page, and it's recommended to book in advance due to limited seating.

What should I expect in terms of pricing?

The pricing reflects the quality of ingredients and the artistry involved, making it a worthwhile investment for sushi lovers.

If you're looking for an unforgettable sushi experience, make your way to Sushi Sonagi in Gardena. With its intimate setting, exceptional dishes, and the chef's passion for sushi, this restaurant promises a dining experience that you will cherish. Don't miss out on the opportunity to indulge in a culinary adventure that celebrates the art of sushi.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNiMGQzTzZnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJiQId4c21woAR7Na-g3TATdA/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNiMGQzTzZnRRAB

Wow!  Soooo good!  I have been fortunate to explore many omakase and Chef Daniel’s intimate 8 seater is my new favorite.   To my surprise this gem is in my hometown, the chef is local too and he uses some local ingredients as well as the freshest Japanese fish.  So many dishes and types of fish I had not tried before, many firsts!

The two hour session was amazing, the service (his lovely wife) attentive they are a cute team, and the vibe was really chill, friendly and conversation filled!

I’ll be back, if I can secure another reservation (on tock) to take my husband so he can experience my new favorite.

Thanks Sonagi!!  I’ll be thinking about the tasty bites!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNid0pIek9nEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJiQId4c21woAR7Na-g3TATdA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNid0pIek9nEAE

The food was delicious. The service was excellent. Atmosphere was good. Small intimate dining experience. Chef is personable and friendly. It is worth the experience. Wife and husband are awesome hosts. Food and drink worth the price of admission for sushi and seasonal food.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNwek42M1l3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJiQId4c21woAR7Na-g3TATdA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNwek42M1l3EAE

The crescendo of flavors starting with the white fish/white rice combination, stepping through the amberjack and baby shrimp, converting to the red vinegar infused rice for the blue backed fish and the finale of eel, uni and Toro handroll were all wonderful.  Seasonally sourced and changing by the week, Sonagi's omokase delivers the seasonal delicacies.  There is no salmon or yellowtail and the Toro only makes an appearance at the end of the course.

If you can get a reservation (check the Instagram or the tock page for details), run to the Gardena strip mall as soon as you can.

If there is a complaint, from my point of view, the full flavor of the two blue backed fish on the menu was muted a bit TOO much, but I understand I am in a fairly small minority that likes the salty ocean taste in the horse mackerel type fish.

I look forward to seeing the restaurant progress and evolve over time and hopefully will be back soon.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURieXBueTFRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJiQId4c21woAR7Na-g3TATdA/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURieXBueTFRRRAB

Chef Daniel’s sushi has a strong sense of identity that deviates from traditional sushi. As the number of sushi ya grows in LA, Sonagi feels refreshing and genuine. Not only did I enjoy the food but also conversation with the chef. Great price point as well.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2dDV6c2F3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJiQId4c21woAR7Na-g3TATdA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2dDV6c2F3EAE

You can feel the Chef's passion in every, single, dish. Worth absolutely every penny. This restaurant would be lauded anywhere in the world.

Sushi Sonagi: Intimate Omakase Experience in Gardena, CA

Sushi Sonagi is a family-owned restaurant in Gardena, CA, offering an intimate omakase dining experience.

Sushi Sonagi: A Culinary Gem in Gardena's Heartful History of Excellence and Innovation in Japanese Omakase Dining.

Nestled in the vibrant city of Gardena, California, Sushi Sonagi has swiftly emerged as a beacon of exquisite Japanese culinary art since its inception in 2023. This family-owned restaurant uniquely blends traditional omakase with a modern twist, crafting an intimate dining experience that resonates deeply with food enthusiasts and locals alike.

From Humble Beginnings to Michelin Recognition

Opening its doors in 2023 in a cozy strip mall at 1425 Artesia Boulevard UNIT 27, Sushi Sonagi was quickly embraced by the Gardena community for its dedication to fresh, seasonal Japanese fish and local ingredients. Chef Daniel’s personalized approach to omakase — serving a carefully curated sequence of dishes — has earned the restaurant glowing praise for both the quality of food and the warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages conversation and connection.

In 2024, Sushi Sonagi achieved a milestone when it received recognition from the prestigious MICHELIN Guide, a testament to the restaurant’s exceptional culinary standards and Chef Daniel’s innovative vision.

Sushi Sonagi’s charm lies in its intimate eight-seat setting, where diners can engage directly with Chef Daniel and his wife, who together elevate the experience beyond just a meal. The restaurant’s vibe is relaxed and friendly, making each reservation feel like a special occasion. The menu evolves weekly to showcase seasonally sourced delicacies, with an emphasis on rare and lesser-known fish varieties, highlighting the chef's passion and expertise.

 Restaurant opened in Gardena, CA, introducing a fresh omakase concept to the community.

 Earned recognition from the MICHELIN Guide, cementing its status as a top culinary destination.

 Continues to delight patrons with consistently high satisfaction and evolving seasonal menus.

Why Sushi Sonagi Stands Out in Gardena’s Culinary Scene

Beyond accolades, Sushi Sonagi's commitment to authenticity, innovation, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a must-visit for sushi aficionados and curious diners alike. The chef’s deft hand in balancing tradition with creativity offers a unique taste journey that reflects both Japanese heritage and Californian freshness.

Whether you’re seeking expertly crafted omakase, an intimate dining setting, or a flavorful exploration of Japanese cuisine in Gardena, Sushi Sonagi delivers an unforgettable experience that keeps patrons returning time and again.

Discover the story behind every bite and the passion that fuels this culinary gem at the heart of Los Angeles County’s diverse food landscape.

Tucked away within the vibrant cityscape of Gardena, California, Sushi Sonagi beckons with its alluring charm and tantalizing flavors. This hidden gem sits on Artesia Boulevard, a street known for its eclectic mix of cultures and cuisines, but none quite capture the spirit of Japan like this culinary oasis. Stepping inside, guests are greeted by an ambiance that marries traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary flair. The menu at Sushi Sonagi is an artful compilation of fresh, top-quality ingredients, inviting diners to embark on a culinary journey with dishes bursting with flavor.

Sushi Sonagi

A curated selection of seasonal dishes showcasing the best of Japanese cuisine with Korean influences.

Omakase

Dolsot Seikogani (Crispy Stone Pot Rice with Hokkaido Female Snow Crab)

Chawanmushi

Ankimo Tart

Saba Sando

Miso Butter Atsuyaki Tamago

Buttermilk Pudding

Omakase Menu

Experience the Art of Omakase at Sushi Sonagi

Nestled in the heart of Gardena, Sushi Sonagi offers a culinary journey that masterfully blends the delicate flavors of Japanese cuisine with subtle Korean influences. This intimate dining spot is renowned for its seasonal omakase menu, where Chef Daniel crafts each dish with passion and precision, using only the freshest seafood and locally sourced ingredients.

Begin your meal with artful starters that set the tone for the exquisite flavors to come. The Chawanmushi is a silky egg custard infused with seasonal ingredients, offering a warm, comforting introduction. For those seeking a rich umami punch, the Ankimo Tart features delicately prepared monkfish liver paired with subtle seasonings. Sushi Sonagi also serves the Saba Sando, a creative mackerel sandwich that perfectly balances freshness and texture, making it a standout appetizer.

Main Courses That Celebrate Seasonal Seafood

At the heart of Sushi Sonagi's menu is the signature Omakase experience, a carefully curated selection of seasonal seafood paired with perfectly seasoned rice, accompanied by soup and dessert. This menu changes with the freshest catches and local availability, ensuring a unique adventure with every visit. Another highlight is the Dolsot Seikogani, a crispy stone pot rice dish crowned with succulent Hokkaido female snow crab and a blend of seasonings that deliver a satisfying texture and rich flavor.

Complete your dining experience with desserts that blend traditional flavors with creative twists. The Miso Butter Atsuyaki Tamago offers a unique blend of sweet egg and savory miso butter, while the Buttermilk Pudding provides a silky, smooth finish with its delicate sweetness and creamy texture.

 – Carefully chosen sake varieties to complement the nuanced flavors of the omakase courses.

 – A curated list of local and imported craft beers to enhance your dining pleasure.

Discover Sushi Sonagi in Gardena, CA—your haven for authentic sushi and delightful Japanese cuisine. Taste the tradition today!

Sushi Sonagi: Authentic Sushi in Gardena, CA

Los Angeles County

A 19-course meal featuring seasonal seafood selections, rice, soup, and desserts.

Omakase Experience

Corkage Fee

Sushi Sonagi: Gardena’s Intimate Omakase Gem

Nestled in a cozy strip mall on Artesia Boulevard in Gardena, California, 

 is a standout sushi restaurant that offers a truly special omakase dining experience. This intimate 8-seat sushi bar is the brainchild of Chef Daniel, a local culinary artist who masterfully blends traditional Japanese techniques with fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced partly from the local area.

The Omakase Experience That Delights All Senses

 that changes with the seasons, highlighting a variety of fresh seafood, expertly paired with rice, soup, and exquisite desserts. The menu showcases rare fish and innovative presentations, offering many diners first-time tastes of unique Japanese delicacies. Unlike many sushi spots, Salmon and Yellowtail are intentionally absent, allowing other seasonal treasures like amberjack, uni, and toro to shine at carefully timed moments during the meal.

 Limited to 8 seats, fostering a relaxed and personal dining atmosphere.

 Chef Daniel incorporates fresh Japanese fish with locally sourced produce, elevating authentic flavors.

 Attentive hospitality by Chef Daniel and his wife creates a warm, welcoming vibe.

 A crescendo of tastes, from subtle white fish to rich toro handrolls, crafted to surprise and delight.

Reservations are essential to secure a spot in this exclusive omakase setting. Sushi Sonagi operates primarily for dinner service, offering no brunch or breakfast options. While live music and outdoor seating are not available, guests enjoy a serene environment perfect for conversation and savoring each course. Ample parking is easy to find with free street and lot parking nearby. The restaurant accepts credit cards and does not offer delivery, focusing instead on providing an exceptional dine-in experience.

 $230 USD for 19 courses of seasonal sushi, soup, and dessert.

California

Experience Sushi Sonagi's exquisite Omakase, showcasing seasonal seafood in a cozy setting. Book your intimate dining adventure in Gardena today!

Sushi Sonagi: Omakase Culture in Gardena, CA

Plan your visit to Sushi Sonagi, Gardena's intimate Omakase gem. Discover its seasonal menu, unique dishes, and essential tips for securing a reservation!

Your Guide to Sushi Sonagi in Gardena, CA

Explore the story behind Sushi Sonagi, a family-owned restaurant offering intimate Omakase experiences. Learn about its unique offerings and history!

Experience the Art of Omakase at Sushi Sonagi

Starters to Awaken Your Palate

Main Courses That Celebrate Seasonal Seafood

Decadent Desserts to End Your Meal

Drinks and Specials