Top four L.A. spots for crispy rice sushi

If you have yet to taste this foodie phenomenon, you are missing out. We all love sushi, but why not spice up your spicy tuna rolls by adding a warm and buttery crunch? Crispy rice makes any sushi roll 10 times better, adding delightful consistency and flavor. Trust me, once you try crispy rice, you will never look at regular sushi the same way again. Here are the top four spots in L.A. for crispy rice sushi.

1. Katsuya

Located a short drive from USC at L.A. Live, Katsuya is one of the original makers of crispy rice. Their spectacular roll includes spicy tuna atop rice crisped to perfection with a buttery finish, topped with a jalapeño pepper for a spicy kick. They even offer a 15 percent discount at the L.A. Live location for USC students — there’s no excuse not to go out for sushi here.

2. Katana

This Asian-fusion hotspot is one of my favorite restaurants in Los Angeles. Located on Sunset Boulevard in the heart of West Hollywood, this hip restaurant features a diverse menu highlighted by its Hanabi spicy tuna on crispy rice. The outdoor patio overlooking Sunset and the L.A. skyline adds to the dining experience. As an additional bonus, you might just happen to run into your favorite celebrity so make sure to dress to the nines.

3. Yatai

This high-end Asian tapas restaurant features one of the best crispy rice creations in the game. The only thing better than crispy rice sushi is a crispy rice burger. Instead of a bun, a warm buttery crunchy layer of rice sandwiches spicy tuna, avocado and secret sauce. Sign me up! 

4. Shojin Downtown

Calling all avocado lovers! This sushi spot in the heart of Little Tokyo offers its own twist on the classic spicy tuna and crispy rice roll, layering it with fresh avocado and chili flakes.