Venice Travel Guide

Kifune: Best Kept Secret in Venice!

This little-known Venice gem is often over-looked but is far superior to the more popular, trendy sushi joints in the area. The sushi bar is the biggest draw and regulars will wait for a coveted seat during peak times. The head chef, Hide (aka Tiger) is the highlight of the sushi bar but his, sometimes, off-color sense of humor isn't for everyone. If you can handle it, he's always riot and the regulars accent the fun to be had there. If you're not in the mood to wait for the sushi bar, you can always be seated in the restaurant, and there's usually never a wait for a table.

Favorite Dish: The asparagus appetizer is a favorite. I order it every time! Check out the lobster dynamite, another favorite. If it's available the toro and / or blue fin is always a treat. Any of the sushi is always stellar! And the sunomono is freshly made by the sushi chefs.

Prices: US$31-40  

Phone: 310-822-1595

Address: 405 E. Washington Street, Marina Del Rey, CA 90291

Directions: On the corner of Washington and Via Dolce

Website: http://www.kifune.com/

venice beach is not much a beach to swim or surf. It is known for its boardwalk; shops, food, bars and its locals who play music, muscle beach, and spray art. Venice also has a legal area for graffiti artists as well. There are great deals on suglasses, jewelry, t-shirts, etc..... Back in the day (80's) it was the spot to bring your pit's, breakin/poppin, in the 90's it evolved into a haven for gang members. Now, it is trendy and comfy to just go for a walk and enjoy what Cali is really all about; sun, fun, and people watching.

If you're coming to Venice, avoid the water after a rain storm as our city's drainage system overflows into the ocean just north of the pier. There's a second drainage down by Bay St. in Santa Monica we call "Dead Rabbits". Post storm swimming might get you sick. Best to swim north of the SaMo pier after rain storms pass.