Design studio Weekends borrowed the minimalism aesthetic of Japan’s sushi restaurants to create Ototo sake bar in Los Angeles.

Bare brick and dark walls contrast with white oak furniture inside the Echo Park bar, which serves okonomiyaki and kara-age alongside a long list of sakes.

Guests can read handwritten tasting notes from wooden boards hung up behind the bar, before sitting at booths lined with fabric imported from Kyoto.

Ototo’s furniture has all been crafted by local furniture maker Elliott Marks, including a small private dining area with flip-out seats and table. To keep the space minimal and tidy, Weekends hid the bar’s glassware in a wooden soffit over the bar.

For those unsure on what to order, Ototo’s resident sake sommelier Courtney Kaplan is on hand to recommend drinks based on guest’s favourite flavours.

1360 Allison Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026

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