Mexican-influenced sushi might seem far-fetched, though the mash-up has gained traction in states like Sinaloa and Sonora. For the most part, the trend has proliferated in South L.A. Now the trend comes to Valley Glen with Mexsake—a sprawling “sushi bar with Mexican flair.”

Skip Sushi Rolls de Clásico (classic sushi rolls) like California or spicy tuna in favor of Sushi Rolls de Firma (signature sushi rolls), which are much more unique mash-ups. In all cases, Chef Noriyuki Kudo is steering Mexsake’s L-shaped sushi bar.

Generally, if there’s one dish you should trust on a menu, it should either be named for the restaurant or the owner. Tío Francisco is a roll that honors the owner and teams popcorn shrimp with spicy tuna, yuzu guacamole and punchy garlic jalapeño ponzu.

Basically, anything marked with an asterisk is worth considering, since * signals picante/spicy. La Sirenita is another fun option that combines blue crab, avocado in soy paper topped with seafood ceviche. Mexsake aguachile is another roll that builds on tradition topping a California roll with camaron aguachile and salsa yuzu verde.

As for drinks, margaritas are the way to go. Versions with prickly pear, guava, mezcal and, most daring, a Pancho Villa margarita with tamarind puree and Tajin rim.

Picka Rico is just down the street from Mexsake and serves Mexican and Thai food. Does this mean Valley Glen is suddenly a mash-up hotbed?

13727 Victory Blvd., Van Nuys, 818-387-8285