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Local picks in California

Meatballs and fish

Finding a menu that respects both the meatball and the fish as equals instead of forcing one to play second fiddle to the other.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Gokigen Tori – Best Yakitori in Culver City image 1
Gokigen Tori – Best Yakitori in Culver City image 2
Gokigen Tori – Best Yakitori in Culver City image 3
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Small space centers on a U-shaped counter with a charcoal yakitori station at its heart. Atmosphere blends cozy and stylish with a modern izakaya vibe, balancing lively music and intimate conversation. Authentic Japanese design and cooking methods create a genuine dining experience.

Chicken meatballs stand out with their mono tareh glaze and juicy texture. Other options include chicken oysters and wagyu, all offering rich flavors and satisfying bites.

Tender texture defines the fish here, which melts in your mouth. It stays incredibly fresh and bursts with full flavor reminiscent of Japan.

People are saying

"This yakitori tasted just like the authentic kind I had in Japan."

"I thought the chicken meatballs were the best."

"The fish here is unbelievably tender and melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings.

2

The restaurant is on the pricey side, costing over $100 per person.

3

Street parking is available near the restaurant.

02
OPAH Seafood + Grill image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers cozy, inviting atmosphere with both indoor and heated outdoor seating that welcomes dogs. The space includes a lively bar area with TVs and a patio suited for solo visitors. Noise levels can be high, balancing a warm, relaxed vibe with occasional loudness.

Appetizers feature ginger chicken meatballs and chicken meatballs that come with peanut sauce. These meatballs pair well with other starters like Kung Pao Calamari and ahi.

Fish dishes feature perfectly seared scallops and flavorful grilled fish. Specials like Alaskan halibut and Opah stand out for their taste and quality.

People are saying

"The seafood here is the best I've ever had, bursting with flavor."

"The fish here is expertly prepared and bursting with flavor."

"The chicken meatballs were very good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long waits.

2

Parking is convenient in the lot across the street from the restaurant.

3

The menu features a variety of seafood and Italian dishes with unique twists.

03
Chef Zhu 老正兴 image 1
Chinese restaurant

Restaurant blends traditional and modern design with a stylish interior and an inviting bar area. Atmosphere feels lively and comfortable, with a buzz that suits both casual meals and special occasions. Space is often busy and noisy, reflecting its popularity and energetic vibe.

Lion’s head meatballs offer great flavor with subtle spices and a texture that melts in your mouth. Braised meatballs also stand out as a favorite dish here.

Tender fish slices come with a subtle aroma of rice wine and pair well with crisp wood ear mushrooms. The fish fillet in wine sauce serves as a flavorful topping over steaming white rice.

People are saying

"The food here is really tasty and cooked to order."

"The Fish Fillet in Wine Sauce has a subtle aroma of rice wine."

"These meatballs melt in your mouth with great flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights like Wednesdays.

2

The restaurant can be full, so expect wait times during peak hours.

3

Parking is free in the shopping center, making access easy.

04
XPP Claypot (XiaoPoPo/肖婆婆砂锅) image 1

Bright, clean interior combines modern flair with traditional Sichuan style. Atmosphere feels cozy and friendly, enhanced by a carefully curated playlist. Offers authentic flavors with options suitable for families, including non-spicy dishes.

Handmade meatballs appear in several dishes, including a crispy pork meatball combo and a clay pot meatball soup with rich broth and crispy pork pieces. The Meatball Casserole offers a light, clean, and heartwarming option.

Pickled mustard fish stew stands out with its rich, bold flavor that pairs well with extra rice. The spicy black duck clay pot and crab roe tofu pudding also deliver deep, intense tastes. Fish pot offers a slightly sour note that complements the mapo tofu nicely.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and freshly made."

"The pickled mustard fish stew has such a good flavor."

"The clay pot meatballs were flavorful and comforting."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available.

2

The portion sizes are slightly small.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak hours.

05
Old World Delicatessens image 1

Restaurant offers a cozy, small town atmosphere with a large, clean dine-in area and a terrace overlooking koi fish and turtles. The vibe stays true to its roots from the 80s and 90s, attracting families and friends. Food portions are generous, with standout items like broasted chicken and peppery pastrami.

Meatball sandwiches stand out with consistently fantastic meatballs. Classics like spaghetti and meatballs also feature alongside garlic bread.

Fish and chips come out super crispy on the outside and perfectly cooked inside. They stay hot and fresh and are a consistent choice for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"I loved the broasted chicken and pastrami sandwiches at this deli."

"The fish and chips are super crispy and perfectly cooked."

"I found the meatball sandwich delicious."

Good to know

1

Bring cash for tips as card payments do not allow tipping.

2

Expect large food portions, perfect for sharing.

3

Street parking is available in front and a small lot across the street.

06
Beethoven Market image 1

Restored 1949 grocery space blends bright open design with a stunning outdoor patio warmed by portable heaters. Bar buzzes with a hip crowd and offers delicious cocktails alongside fresh Cal‑Ital cuisine. Atmosphere stays cozy and lively, fitting for dates, solo meals, or socializing.

Shredded short rib fills the meatballs, making them tender and perfectly seasoned. These fried balls offer a unique twist, not like typical Italian meatballs.

Rotating catch of the Day features prominently with the Market Fish, a Red Snapper served with tarragon salmoriglio. It has a crispy exterior and a flaky, flavorful interior.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pizza, is amazing."

"The meatballs are shredded short rib filled fried balls of deliciousness."

"The market fish is fantastic, with a crispy exterior and flaky interior."

Good to know

1

Reservations are difficult to secure, especially for weekend dinners.

2

Currently, the establishment does not serve alcohol.

3

Parking can be challenging, especially during peak hours.

07
Saijo - Los Angeles - Culver City image 1

Small, intimate bar-style seating with Asian-inspired decor creates a focused dining experience. Atmosphere feels sleek and inviting with dim lighting and a lively vibe despite the compact space. Fresh sushi and hand rolls prepare quickly in front of diners, emphasizing quality and swift service.

Skewers highlight plump chicken meatballs and flavorful beef. The grill enhances the juicy kushiyaki chicken meatballs.

Fish comes very fresh with crispy seaweed on hand rolls. The special hand roll includes three types of fish, seared salmon, shrimp, and crab, showcasing top notch uni and quality seafood.

People are saying

"The Japanese food omakase here is excellent and a great value."

"The chicken and beef meatballs were my favorite skewers."

"The fish here is so fresh, especially in the handrolls."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect a wait during peak hours.

2

The restaurant has only bar seating, which may not suit larger groups.

3

Lunch specials offer great value, with deals around $24 for five hand rolls.

08
Taiwan's No.1 Cuisines image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Spacious dining area with simple cafeteria-style interior and newly renovated seating creates a chill atmosphere. The place draws a steady crowd seeking authentic Taiwanese flavors with dishes hard to find elsewhere. It offers a casual, unpretentious vibe focused on genuine taste rather than decor.

Meatballs come with a sweet pink sauce that adds a unique flavor. The Taiwanese style is both authentic and sweet, offering a distinct taste experience.

Fish appears in several dishes like milk fish soup, fried fish fillet, and fried fish cake. Some items like fish tacos are available for takeout, showing versatility in preparation.

People are saying

"I found the food to be super authentic Taiwanese."

"I tried the stinky tofu, it was super unique and interesting."

"I found the Taiwanese Fish here to be pretty authentic."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends, especially during lunch hours.

2

Takeout orders may take about 35 minutes due to fresh preparation.

3

Parking is available right outside the restaurant for convenience.

09
Shirubē image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Long, narrow space with open kitchen and intimate bar seating offers a cozy, authentic vibe. Lighting creates a romantic atmosphere that highlights the antique sake cups and skilled chefs at work. The setting feels distinct from typical izakayas, blending minimal decor with thoughtful design.

Wagyu meatballs come with a delicious sauce but the meat itself has a mild flavor. The meatballs arrive on a scorching hot pan, which can cause burns if not handled carefully.

Fish here is incredibly fresh and tender, especially in the sashimi and nigiri. Unique items like the Aburi Shime Saba offer a cured flavor that pairs well with the raw fish.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"The fish here is unbelievably fresh."

"The wagyu meatballs had a delicious sauce."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Sunday with food and drink specials.

2

Most happy hour menu items are about $5 cheaper than regular prices.

3

They offer both early and late-night happy hour specials.

10
Beeside Balcony La Jolla image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open-air Mediterranean restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views and an elevated patio that reduces street noise. Live music sets a classy beach town vibe with a vibrant atmosphere that feels both lively and welcoming.

Lamb and beef meatballs come with a sauce and feta that pair perfectly. They appear alongside a trip of dips and homemade pita, making for a solid savory option.

Fresh fish shines in the whole grilled branzino and rock fish tacos. Fish dishes come with unique touches like slate plates for fish and chips.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots was spectacular and did not disappoint."

"The whole branzino fish is perfectly cooked and a must-try."

"The lamb and beef meatballs were outstanding."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

The happy hour menu is available upon request from the staff.

3

Parking is generally easy, but can be difficult during peak hours.

11
MooMoo Hot Pot image 1
Hot pot restaurant

Spacious hot pot restaurant with one-person-one-pot design and black-and-gold decor blending modern elegance and traditional Chinese elements. Atmosphere feels cozy and clean, suitable for small gatherings or dates with private rooms available. Self-service bar offers a wide variety of fresh ingredients and sauces, enhancing the all-you-can-eat experience.

Handmade meatballs appear fresh and plentiful alongside seafood and vegetables. A self-service bar offers meatballs with various hot pot ingredients and a good sauce selection.

Self-serve seafood includes squid, scallops, octopus, fish, and tripe. The golden chicken soup with fish maw stands out as especially delicious.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, it's like it came straight from the ocean."

"The Wagyu beef meatballs just melt in your mouth."

"The salted egg yolk seafood dish was insanely good."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available on weekdays from 11:30 AM to 5:00 PM for $28.99.

2

The all-you-can-eat hotpot menu offers an impressive variety of fresh, high-quality ingredients.

3

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and organization.

12
Junction 52 Bar & Grill image 1

Walls covered with many TVs ensure every seat has a good view, creating a vibrant bar atmosphere with lively but not overwhelming background music. The crowd includes older regulars and locals, contributing to a chill, fun vibe that suits watching multiple sports simultaneously. A dog-friendly patio adds a relaxed outdoor option.

Voluminous meatball sandwich features flavorful ingredients. Meatballs served with garlic toast offer a great taste experience.

Fish and chips come with skinny pieces of fish and small fries. The dish costs around $17 and is served alongside iced tea.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and worth the cost."

"The meatballs here are excellent, especially with garlic toast."

"I liked their fish n' chips."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features discounted tacos all day, making it a popular choice.

2

Happy Hour runs all day, offering great drink specials.

3

The patio is dog-friendly, perfect for pet owners.

13
Drunken Monk image 1
Japanese restaurant

Modern izakaya style with wooden accents and soft lantern lighting creates a warm, relaxed atmosphere suited for small groups and dates. Seating is nicely spaced to allow easy conversation without disturbance. Energy varies from calm to lively during larger gatherings.

Juicy and well-seasoned chicken meatballs appear regularly, often alongside other skewers like oyster and lobster yakitori. Tsukune chicken meatballs stand out for their flavor and texture.

Fish comes fresh from Japan with superb quality. Dishes like chu toro and scallop carpaccio showcase perfectly seasoned, incredibly fresh fish.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is stunning and delicious."

"The meatballs here are stunning and delicious."

"The fish here is so fresh, it's superb."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long waits, especially during peak hours.

2

Parking is very limited, with scarce street parking available nearby.

3

Expect to pay high prices for food, which some may find overpriced.

14
Carthay Circle Lounge image 1

Elegant lounge offers 1930s-inspired decor with quiet outdoor patio and central bar seating tucked away from park noise. Atmosphere feels sophisticated and calm, providing a grown-up break amid lively surroundings. Small plates and cocktails attract guests seeking a refined yet relaxed experience.

Moroccan Roasted Chicken Meatballs come with a pomegranate salsa that adds a bright, tangy flavor. The menu features flavorful smaller plates including these meatballs and Malai Kofta Potatoes.

Sustainable Fish like salmon sits right on top of the plate, making it the main focus of the dish.

People are saying

"The Day Lounge food is savory, delicious, and beautifully presented."

"The Moroccan chicken meatballs are flavorful and tasty."

"The salmon fish was perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended well in advance, especially during busy events.

2

Expect a wait time of about an hour for seating during peak hours.

3

The lounge offers a mix of indoor and outdoor seating, with some areas in direct sunlight.

15
I Shanghai Delight image 1
Shanghainese restaurant

Shanghainese restaurant offers authentic Shanghai dim sum and dishes with an open kitchen visible to diners. Atmosphere feels warm and lively, with cozy seating that suits casual meals with family or friends. Space is limited and sometimes crowded, creating an intimate dining experience.

Lion's head meatballs stand out for their tenderness and rich flavor. The menu also features crab roe meatballs and a soup with crab roe meatballs that pairs well with pan-fried soup dumplings.

Smoked fish offers an authentic flavor. Crab roe fish with rice stands out with its rich crab roe taste. Shanghai style fried rice and fish noodles add variety to the fish dishes.

People are saying

"The Shanghai food here tastes so authentic and delicious."

"I found the smoked fish to have an authentic flavor."

"The lion's head meatballs were so tender and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is very convenient for visitors.

2

Expect to wait about 15 minutes for a table during peak hours.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended for larger groups.

16
Ètra image 1
Restaurant

Soft lighting and birch-paneled walls create a moody, warm atmosphere that feels like a small Italian restaurant with chic, unique decor. Music plays consistently, adding to the inviting vibe that suits intimate dining. The space includes a small indoor area and a few outdoor tables in an enclosed setting.

Light and juicy with hints of ricotta, the meatballs come in a tomato sauce that adds bright acidity. They are incredibly well made and tender, standing out as a signature dish.

Dorade features crispy skin and moist, buttery flesh. Fish dishes stand out alongside other well-prepared items like meatballs.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, especially the pasta."

"The New York Strip was cooked to perfection with a deep flavor."

"The staff here is so friendly and attentive, they treat you like family."

Good to know

1

Parking is available via valet for $15 or find street parking nearby.

2

Reservations are recommended due to high demand; set a Resy alert.

3

The restaurant does not have a full liquor license but offers wine and beer.

17
STK Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Modern, spacious steakhouse with live DJ and club-like atmosphere creates an energetic, loud vibe. Guests enjoy chic decor and upbeat music that balances liveliness with conversation. Birthday celebrations often include sparklers, adding to the festive mood.

Meatballs here vary in quality. The wagyu meatballs are decent but not remarkable, while some versions stand out as outstanding.

Sea Bass and cod fish stand out as notable dishes. Fish and chips come at a high price but lack crispiness and proper frying, with long wait times for service.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the steaks and potatoes."

"I loved the meatballs; they were my favorite."

"The fish dishes, like cod and sea bass, were delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 pm to 5 pm with drinks under $10.

2

Cocktails are $9 and appetizers range from $3 to $9 during happy hour.

3

DJ plays on Thursday nights, enhancing the happy hour experience.

18
MEBO JIAO CLUB 骄宴 image 1
Chinese restaurant

Spacious dining area features traditional red lanterns and elegant Chinese decor that create a refined, cozy atmosphere. Private rooms with karaoke and tea stations accommodate groups and business gatherings. The vibe balances stylish comfort with lively energy, suitable for casual meals and celebrations.

Steamed glutinous rice balls have fresh juicy meatball filling. Handmade meatballs appear in dishes like coconut chicken hot pot and lions head meatball, all noted for their freshness.

Large fish head dishes come with tofu and lotus root slices, soaking up rich, savory broth. Shrimp and fish arrive ultra-fresh, prepared simply to highlight natural flavors. Generous portions include a layer of in-house made tofu with a unique texture.

People are saying

"The poached fish was tender, springy, and fresh."

"The portions were huge for our Group Dinner, and everything was flavorful."

"The $9.99 main dishes are a great value and generously portioned."

Good to know

1

$9.99 specials are available all day.

2

From Monday to Friday, there's a different dish each day at 50% off.

3

A daily half-price dish is offered on weekdays.

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