 THE HUMP CLOSED ON MARCH 19, 2010 This chic Japanese restaurant and sushi bar is perched upstairs from the boisterous, hip, Southeast Asian eatery Typhoon, but in atmosphere it’s a world away, a tiny, intimate glass box of magical romance. Named for the route the Flying Tigers took over the Himalayas during World War II, The Hump features an etched-glass modern décor that's warmed up with woven grasses and a fireplace, reminiscent of a mountain cabin. The sushi bar is devoid of those ubiquitous refrigerated cases, allowing diners more interaction. The space also gives the chefs an opportunity to filet whole fish or slice up a live sea eel right in front of customers (those who are squeamish are advised to reserve one of the candlelit tables). These ambitious sushi chefs were rounded up from the best Japanese restaurants in L.A., so the sushi is first-class all the way and a number of exotic dishes are regularly offered on a seasonal basis. Here you can swallow live Japanese silverfish, flirt with the fearsome fugu (with its poisonous liver) or feast on ultra-sweet hairy crab from chilly northern Japanese waters. And a gold leaf-dusted platter of live lobster, a signature specialty, is truly memorable. Arrive at sunset and take advantage of the killer views and envy arriving Gulfstreams at the Santa Monica Airport.
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Splurging at top-rated restaurants is fun for special events, but where can you go for a good quality meal that won't break the bank? Gather the change out of your piggy bank and sofa cushions and take it to one of our selections for the best cheap eats in your area. Also, check out our picks for the Top 40 Cheap Eats in the U.S.
