Nogi Japanese - Claremont

My experience was actually very different! I actually haven't been to Nogi for a while, we really miss Juan, the waiter there, and the owner, Ben, they both provided myself and my family excellent service every time we were there. Great service!! I think there must be some misunderstanding/miscommunication on both ends.

My experience was actually very pleasant, the former owner was always very kind and polite whenever I was there with my friends and or family. My friends who I referred to go there all had good experience and said that he was very polite and nice to them too. There must be a misunderstanding somewhere, maybe it was communicated incorrectly from both ends. Anyhow, just want to give my thoughts!

With respect to the prior review describing a horrible experience with the owner It is my understanding that Nogi is now operating under new ownership. My wife and I recently moved from the Sawtelle area of West L.A. and are very familiar with Japanese cuisine. That been said, we had a very good experience at Nogi and would encourage others to stop in.

We were basically assaulted by the owner of this establishment. After a relaxing meal, we were about to leave when the owner came after us and accused us of not paying the bill in full. When I explained to him that I had given him $40 cash at the register, he claimed that he had only given me change for a $20 (which I needed for the tip) and that I did not give him anything else. When I disagreed, he became enraged and started screaming and causing a scene in front of everyone. He said he had it all on tape, so I asked if we could see the tape and he became more angry, and threatened to call the police. We told him we had no problem with the police coming (since we had nothing to hide) and he became angrier and yelled at us that he would sue us. Finally, we ourselves stepped outside to call the police and as soon as the Claremont police arrived, he said he counted his cash register and that he had found the extra $40 in there. He finally apologized, but suffice to say we will not be returning. It is a bit disappointing that he would not admit his mistake until the police arrived. Instead he was extremely rude and quite hostile. Very unstable individual.

Hero, the Sushi Master at Nogi Sushi picks some of the most delicious treats for his specials, and it 's not just about the raw fish. The Boston Conch and Giant Clam are fantastic served sauteed in the shell and on a bed of flaming salt. The live Uni (Sea Urchin) is also very tasty. The freshness really comes through in a slightly sweet taste. A richness that is not there with regular refrigerated Uni. He gives a booming greeting when people walk in through the door, and often says See you tomorrow... when guest leave. The sushi bar is small, but that gives it a more personal feeling. Something that has been lost in the bigger sushi retaurants.