Sushi Ajiwa - El Monte

I did have a couple of minor complaints, but they didn't detract from the overall quality of the meal. One thing I wish they would do is provide a description of each dish or label the containers. Since we ordered three sets, some of our dishes were packed together, and we weren't sure what they all were. This leads to my second point: I felt the packaging was a little excessive. They could have been a bit more efficient with it, but I understand they are a new restaurant and probably still fine-tuning some things! Lastly, I noticed that their omakase included a dessert, but we didn’t receive one. When I inquired about it, they explained that there are no desserts with takeout because they melt. I suggested they remove that option from the takeout menu, and I was pleased to see that they took my feedback and updated their online menu! One more thing: I should mention that it takes a little longer to prepare the food than they quote. They said it would be ready in 20 minutes, but it was closer to 40, which made sense since we ordered three sets, haha. Overall, the food was delicious and well-packaged, and the staff were extremely nice. When I called with a few questions, the woman on the phone was very friendly! Oh, and even though we ordered three omakase, they gave us a bonus serving of abalone! The usual serving is 0.5 per person, but they gave us two full servings for our three orders—thank you for that! We will definitely return when my parents feel more comfortable dining out. I can only imagine that the in-restaurant grand omakase experience is even better!

In a small corner of downtown El Monte, this restaurant often goes unnoticed by passersby. On weekdays, there are only a few customers, so reservations are not necessary. The omakase for two, accompanied by a glass of wine, costs around $150 before tax—a great deal! The meal includes salad, soup, a large sashimi platter, ten pieces of sushi, six spicy tuna hand rolls made fresh, and desserts. It’s hard to believe such a spacious restaurant doesn't attract more patrons! I hope they can maintain their quality over time. It's important for downtown El Monte to showcase its worth; this omakase offers remarkable value at under $150. Consistent quality improvements could be advantageous for the restaurant. The flavors of tuna are truly exceptional!

Sushi Ajiwa is one of the best Japanese restaurants in the area. I thoroughly enjoyed the dishes we were served; they were absolutely delicious. I would definitely recommend visiting again!

Definitiw has to try a special while its $59.99 anomkase is still in power. it is a small place, but good for small groups. I celebrated a birthday with friends. if a person requests the omakase, then everyone else must select the same and they can also order additional elements in the menu. it is on a lonely road in el monte, but go early so they don't feel alone when they go to the road.

Food 5 stars Service 4.5 stars Ambiance 3 stars They give generous portion and the price is good. Before we entered the restaurant, one of the servers was smoking right outside of the front door and just went into the restaurant right after we got out of the car. So the first thing that greeted us upon entering the restaurant was the cigarette smell lingering all over the restaurant. Not very pleasant , especially for a sushi restaurant. Maybe the owner should think twice about hiring a smoker as server for a sushi restaurant? Or maybe the server is one of the owners? Servers are very attentive and they do a good job serving the plates. This is basically it. I feel they can be a little welcoming but they were very quiet and avoid to have a conversation. The whole restaurant was like quiet and the ambiance is awkward in my opinion. People avoid making conversation and making noise. This is why the servers are important and they can make our dining experience is little more fun.