LOS ANGELES TIMES (Pisces Sushi: Hidden sushi bar in Manhattan Beach)
From Our Family to Yours
When Pisces was founded over 24 years ago, Sara and Kiyoshi Takahashi had just arrived in Manhattan Beach from Tokyo. The name "Pisces" symbolizes cycles—endings and beginnings, past and future. Originally, they dreamed of a traditional Japanese sushi-ya, where they could serve new friends across a wooden bar, passing fresh nigiri and sashimi hand to hand, just as it’s meant to be shared.
Crafted with Care and Respect
But early on, lease restrictions made their humble sushi bar impossible. w/ no staff-husband & wife faced a choice: adapt or walk away. True to Kiyoshi’s motto, "Ganbarimasu!" ("I will do my best!"), they persevered. Their biggest challenge? Sushi’s essence lies in immediacy—fish prepared & served fresh, never held. In 2001, takeout sushi was rare, & delivery apps nonexistent. Yet Sara & Kiyoshi innovated, creating what may have been the first premium to-go sushi with uncompromising quality.
What Sets Us Apart
Kiyoshi developed a meticulous method: fish delivered every other day, stored at a precise temperature to preserve freshness without freezing. Most crucially, he never pre-cuts nigiri or sashimi—each order is prepared only when placed, ensuring unparalleled freshness. While most restaurants prioritize speed, Pisces prioritizes care—a tradition upheld to this day.
Two decades later, Pisces remains a beloved community staple, blending tradition with dedication. Every dish reflects their hardworking spirit—crafted with love, precision, and respect for the work itself.