There are a few examples of these restaurant/lounges I could name off the bat: Maki Maki (where the waiter lost my order), and TentAsian.

However, Geisha House, in Hollywood, is a bit of an exception. Even though the food is lacking in originality and quality, what it lacks in this department it makes up for in ambience and overall dining experience.

First, I have to admit my initial misgivings about going into a place called "Geisha House". After all, I'm an asian female, and the word Geisha is chockfull of connotations since its inception as an art. However after stepping inside, all of that changed.

Unlike most lounges, Geisha House retains an easy-going vibe, none of this let-me-impress-you-by-looking-hot pretentiousness. At the same time it still maintains a sense of classiness with candlelit tables and fresh flower settings. With two floors, and a live DJ (he even played some Metric) the place has a chatty, lively energy that makes a great atmosphere for friends, and maybe even a blind date.

The drink menu is extensive with different sake, wine, and mixed drinks. The Geisha's Kiss is particularly delightful, a blend of lychee, sake, Chambord, and champagne.

When it comes to food here, expensive does not necessarily mean the best. A cut roll called the "Surf and Turf" consists of kobe beef and lobster. For six very cold, tough pieces of meat with rice wrapped around them and barely any lobster, $22 is much too high a price to pay (keeping in mind you are likely to order multiple rolls, the bill adds up). Other rolls, such as the eel roll or salmon roll with ornate names that I have already forgotten, are okay. In fact, it's hard to differentiate the taste between each roll. The saving grace of the meal was perhaps the Calamari. Glazed in Japanese mayonnaise and lightly fried, with a hint of sweetness it is my favorite version of the calamari appetizer.

Given the reputation that Japanese themed restaurant/lounges aren't exactly known for their food, I got what I deserved. Seventy dollars per person, including drinks, is just too expensive for the quality of food we received. However, for the whole experience of being in a lively, hip environment, the price was a little more justifiable.
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* trivia: A scene from Knocked Up was filmed here. Also you might run into some celeb or Ashton Kutcher who co-owns the place.

Geisha House

6633 Hollywood Blvd.

Hollywood, CA 90028

Reservations: 323.460.6300