Legendary Japanese-American restaurant Yamashiro has been celebrated for decades for its iconic sushi and seafood dishes. Now, its starters, salads, and appetizers are becoming stars in their own right; these offerings introduce guests to a world of rich flavors, creative presentations, and a wide range of choices that cater to diverse palates and dietary needs. Whether easing into a sushi feast or simply enjoying a lighter meal, Yamashiro’s starters and salads are the perfect start to an unforgettable meal.
The list of starters at Yamashiro is extensive, yet the Avocado Crispy Rice stands out for its unique contrast of textures and flavors. This dish features a smooth avocado puree spread over crispy rice, enhanced by pickled serrano for a spicy kick and sweet soy for a touch of umami. A drizzle of vegan spicy mayo adds a creamy finish, and the crispy rice provides the ideal foundation for the velvety avocado, making this starter a favorite of vegans and non-vegans alike. However, for a more indulgent meal starter, Yamashiro’s A5 Wagyu Crispy Rice is a luxurious treat. This dish takes the restaurant’s popular crispy rice concept and elevates it with rich, melt-in-your-mouth Japanese Wagyu, kizami mayo, and caviar. Yamashiro also caters to more classic tastes with dishes like Edamame, available with a choice of sea salt, spicy sauce, or truffle, giving guests the choice to indulge in something simple or try a more elevated take on the traditional.
Salads at Yamashiro are a delicious complement to the richness of their starters and sushi. The menu spans classic offerings like the Chicken Caesar Salad and House Salad to more unique options like the Seaweed Salad and Sunomono. The latter, a vibrant dish featuring cucumber, sesame, tomato, and an amazing dressing, is known for its lightness and refreshing taste. The Sunomono strikes a delicate balance of tangy and sweet, with the crunch of the cucumber and sesame seeds providing the perfect palate cleanser.
Yamashiro’s inventive appetizer, the Sashimi Pizza, skillfully blends Japanese and Western flavors. In this dish, thin slices of tuna, salmon, and hamachi are layered on a crispy corn tortilla. The toppings – avocado puree, Korean chili paste vinaigrette, pico de gallo, and yuzu tobiko – add bright, bold flavors to the pizza. This dish showcases Yamasiro’s ability to push the boundaries of traditional Japanese cuisine. The Edamame Truffle Dumplings also features a delicate edamame puree wrapped in tender dumpling skin and served with truffle ponzu and crispy fried leeks. The earthy truffle flavor elevates the subtle sweetness of the edamame, and the crunchy leeks add a wonderful texture. It is an appetizer that exemplifies the fusion of East and West that Yamashiro is known for, combining traditional Japanese ingredients with modern cooking techniques. For something a bit different, Yamashiro’s Tako Tacos are a unique take on seafood appetizers. These tacos feature tender Spanish octopus paired with potato, soyrizo, and shiso & yuzu kosho chimichurri, tucked into a soft shell. The result is a flavorful dish with just the right spice, a delicious start to any meal. These starters and salads set the stage for Yamashiro’s famous sushi and seafood but also stand strong as creative dishes in their own right.
For guests who want something sweet to round out their meal, Yamashiros’ Smash Cakes are the perfect choice. The hard-shell chocolate smash cakes come in the shape of a heart filled with mini cakes and rich chocolate mousse. Diners can take a hammer to these creations to reveal the hidden treats inside, making them a fun dessert option perfect for parties, celebrations, or gifts. Available in milk, dark, or white chocolate, these Smash Cakes are the perfect end to any event. However, do not forget to order three days in advance, as these special treats require some preparation before enjoyment.
Set against the backdrop of the Hollywood Hills, Yamashiro’s tantalizing starters, salads, and appetizers are the perfect start to any meal. Providing a sensory experience like none other, Yamashiro is the ultimate celebration of food and creativity in Los Angeles.
Published By: Aize Perez
