ENCINO, Calif. — Mizumi Sushi Encino is quickly becoming one of the San Fernando Valley’s most talked-about restaurant openings. Recently named the Dine Awards 2026 Best New Restaurant in Encino, the Japanese dining destination is already generating enthusiasm among local diners despite still operating in its soft-opening phase.
The recognition reflects not only the quality of the restaurant’s cuisine but also the remarkable background of the chef leading its kitchen.
Chef Leo’s culinary career began at age 15 when he started training under legendary sushi master Chef Nozawa. The mentorship introduced him to the discipline, techniques, and philosophy that define traditional Japanese cuisine and would ultimately shape the next two decades of his professional life.
Over the years, Chef Leo continued refining his craft, eventually becoming Head Chef at Sushi House Unico in Bel-Air. There, he developed a reputation for sourcing exceptional seafood, maintaining uncompromising standards, and delivering refined Japanese dining experiences built on authenticity and precision.
Today, he brings that experience to Mizumi Sushi Encino.
Central to the restaurant’s identity is an ambitious seafood sourcing program that emphasizes freshness and quality above all else.
While Chef Leo works with suppliers around the globe, the majority of Mizumi Sushi’s seafood is sourced directly from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market. Fresh shipments arrive up to three times per week, ensuring guests receive seafood at the peak of quality and seasonality.
The result is a menu showcasing premium bluefin tuna, toro, uni, seasonal fish selections, luxury caviar, specialty nigiri, and signature rolls designed around some of the world’s most sought-after ingredients.
Many of the restaurant’s dishes highlight both traditional Japanese techniques and modern presentation. From elegant sashimi platters to caviar-topped creations and premium seafood specialties, every plate reflects Chef Leo’s commitment to craftsmanship.
The restaurant is currently operating a soft-opening lunch service while management completes final preparations for a full opening in the coming weeks.
Guests can currently enjoy lunch service as well as takeout and delivery through Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Postmates. Full operations, including expanded dinner service, are expected once final approvals are completed.
According to restaurant representatives, the soft opening serves as an opportunity to introduce Mizumi Sushi to the community while gathering feedback and refining the guest experience before the official grand opening.
The restaurant’s sophisticated interior, warm hospitality, and focus on premium ingredients have already earned praise from early visitors.
Receiving the Dine Awards 2026 Best New Restaurant in Encino recognition at this stage is particularly noteworthy and underscores the strong first impression Mizumi Sushi has made within the local dining community.
As anticipation builds for the restaurant’s grand opening, guests are encouraged to follow Mizumi Sushi on social media for updates regarding expanded dinner service, upcoming events, and new menu offerings.
With Chef Leo’s extensive culinary background, direct access to seafood from Toyosu Market, and a commitment to authentic Japanese hospitality, Mizumi Sushi is poised to become one of Southern California’s premier destinations for Japanese cuisine.
For Encino residents and sushi enthusiasts alike, Mizumi Sushi represents not only a new restaurant but the arrival of a chef-driven concept dedicated to excellence at every level.
Mizumi Sushi Encino
17047 1/2 Ventura Blvd.
Encino, CA 91316
(818) 809-2006
Instagram: @mizumisushiencino
Winner — Dine Awards 2026 Best New Restaurant in Encino
