Remember The Hump — that trendy L.A. sushi joint that got busted for serving whale meat? Well, they’ve issued an apology — of sorts — saying they were just trying to give its customers the same kind of cuisine they could enjoy in Japan.

In a statement posted on The Hump’s website, they say:

We write to address the misdemeanor charge recently filed by the U.S. Attorney. The charge against the restaurant is true: The Hump served whale meat to customers looking to eat what in Japan is widely served as a delicacy. In serving this meat, The Hump ignored its responsibilities to help save endangered whales from extinction and failed to support the world community in its uphill fight to protect all endangered species. While The Hump cannot undo the damage it caused, it will put into place procedures to ensure that it strictly complies with the laws and becomes a good corporate citizen. We sincerely apologize. We pledge to work hard to re-earn the trust of the public and respect of our customers.

The Hump’s chef, along with parent company Typhoon, have been charged with illegal sale of a marine mammal product for an unauthorized purpose. That charge carries with it up to $200,000 in fines and a maximum of one year in prison.

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