Taisho Japanese Restaurant in Sherman Oaks (Score: 9)

Location: 14016 Ventura Blvd Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 (really just a few minutes down Ventura Blvd. from the buzzy area of Studio City).

Ambience: As you walk into Taisho, you'll notice that there are a few different sections to be seated in, but all of them feel good. There's a main dining room area, a semi-outdoor but also indoor room with higher ceilings and heaters, and a fully outdoor front porch area that is probably best on a warm night. Taisho plays for all sorts of occasions; date nights, nice dinner with friends or a place to take your family when they visit from out of town. You can't go wrong.

Food: Taisho is Japanese, but fun Japanese. Yes, they have an extensive sushi offering. They've got your basic options, plus some signature rolls and they'll even make you an avocado roll even though it's not on the menu. That said, if you're a sushi hater: no problem. Try the truffle avocado crispy rice, the crispy Brussels sprouts (that taste like potato chips) or the shishito peppers. I could go on and on but they have tons of non-sushi options and everything is shareable, so go crazy!

What we ate: truffle avocado crispy rice, green beans, avocado roll, mushroom tofu, Brussels sprouts, shishito peppers, vegetable gyoza, salmon truffle roll

Final thoughts: This place is well attended and has recently hosted some reality TV show shoots, so make a reservation if you can. I'm giving it a 9 and crowning it my favorite restaurant in the Valley so far. Crazy, but it's true.