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Yakitori and Japanese food

You want a yakitori experience that stays true to the roots of Japanese food.

Based on 961 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Sushi K's Bistro Costa Mesa image 1
Sushi K's Bistro Costa Mesa image 2

Small sushi bar creates an authentic Japanese vibe with calm, tranquil atmosphere and peaceful jazz music. Fresh, exceptional sushi pairs with a diverse sake selection for a standout omakase experience. Interior feels brand new and clean, offering a cozy, elevated dining environment.

Wagyu yakitori stands out with rich flavor and tender texture. The yakitori overall is incredible, combining quality and taste well.

Sushi here features highest, freshest grade fish with every bite melting in your mouth. The omakase dinners offer incredible flavor and perfect texture, paired with phenomenal service.

People are saying

"I had some of the best Japanese food I've ever tasted."

"This is the perfect late night spot for sushi."

"The Yakitori here is amazing, a true hidden gem."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers rotating specials and a selection of sake.

2

Expect a unique menu crafted with authentic Japanese ingredients.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

02
zoku image 1
Restaurant

Cozy seaside Japanese yakitori spot with a minimal, thoughtfully designed interior and bright lighting. Lively atmosphere blends 90s hip hop soundtrack with an authentic Japanese vibe. Skewers cooked over charcoal fire offer exceptional flavors in an inviting setting.

Skewers come out tender, juicy, and flavorful, cooked to perfection every time. Options include chicken wings, tsukune, wagyu beef, and seafood like ebi and unagi, all made with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

Yakitori dishes come tender, juicy, and flavorful, grilled delicately to order by the chef. The food uses fresh ingredients and offers an authentic Japanese cuisine experience.

People are saying

"The yakitori here is delicious, perfectly marinated and cooked."

"I loved the authentic Japanese food and vibes here."

"The Japanese food, especially the yakitori, was delicious and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended because it gets very busy, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour items are available and are well-received.

3

The restaurant has a seasonal menu attached to their standard menu.

03
Fujiya Ramen & Yakitori image 1

Restaurant offers Showa-style decor with a cozy, nostalgic vibe and authentic Japanese theme. Atmosphere stays relaxed and quiet at lunch, with a warm, homey feel that suits casual visits after work. Staff often present guests with gifts like fancy chopsticks, enhancing the welcoming experience.

Charcoal-grilled yakitori offers a smoky aroma and is cooked to perfection with great seasoning. Available even at lunchtime, the chicken wing skewers stand out as delicious and well-prepared.

Rich, flavorful ramen broth pairs with charcoal-grilled yakitori cooked to perfection. The chicken wing yakitori stands out as especially delicious, making it a solid spot for Japanese barbecue and ramen.

People are saying

"The ramen's rich broth and chewy noodles are so comforting."

"The yakitori here is purely charcoal-grilled and incredibly fragrant."

"The Japanese food, especially the yakitori and ramen, is flavorful and rich."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 3 PM.

2

Parking is easy with plenty of plaza spaces available.

3

The restaurant offers yakitori grilled over real charcoal during lunchtime.

04
Gokigen Tori โ€“ Best Yakitori in Culver City image 1

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.

Yakitori here features fresh and carefully cooked skewers with juicy, refined quality that closely matches authentic Japanese flavors. The experience offers a premium yakitori taste that stands out in the area.

Yakitori here stands out for its refined quality and authentic taste, closely matching what you'd find in Japan. The menu features a variety of skewers like chicken negima, liver, meatball, and wagyu, all cooked fresh and carefully.

People are saying

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

"The sake here is amazing and flavorful, reminding me of Japan."

"I found the yakitori here to be excellent and cooked to order."

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.

05
Sakura House image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with cozy interior and a charcoal grill dominating the room creates a warm atmosphere. Beatles music plays softly, adding to the relaxed vibe. Frequented by those seeking authentic Japanese yakitori in an unpretentious, lively setting.

Expertly grilled yakitori shines here with incredible skewers. The menu blends authentic Japanese BBQ with California-inspired flavors.

Expertly grilled yakitori stands out here with incredible skewers that capture authentic flavors. This spot serves some of the best Izakaya-style Japanese food around.

People are saying

"I found Sakura House authentic in flavor, vibe, and hospitality."

"I loved the Japanese food, especially the expertly grilled yakitori skewers."

"I found the Yakitori here to be a happy adventure."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended as it gets busy.

2

On-street parking is available nearby.

3

The menu features a wide variety of skewers and dishes.

06
Yakitori Taisho image 1
Yakitori restaurant

Small space fills with charcoal smoke and lively noise, creating a high-energy and cozy atmosphere. Seating is close with wooden dividers offering some privacy, while outdoor tables feature propane heaters for comfort. The vibe suits casual gatherings with friends rather than intimate conversations.

Authentic Japanese home-style yakitori stands out with classic preparation and fantastic flavors. Unique items like Brussel sprouts yakitori add a tasty twist not commonly found elsewhere.

Authentic Japanese home-style yakitori shines here with classic flavors. Skewers like chicken thigh, pork belly, scallop, and shitake mushroom stand out alongside fresh sushi appetizers.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and seasoned to perfection."

"I thought the yakitori here was fantastic and top notch."

"The yakitori here is fantastic and smoky."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required, especially since the restaurant is very small.

2

Making same-day reservations is difficult; call a few days in advance.

3

Walking in might not get you a seat; you may end up sitting outside.

07
Izakaya Fusion Grill Keitan image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Japanese-style barbecue restaurant offers intimate izakaya vibe with tabletop grills and live anime-themed music. Interior features open kitchen where chefs grill skewers over charcoal, creating an authentic and lively atmosphere. Space includes a second story with more seating, maintaining a cozy yet energetic environment.

Combos feature a variety of yakitori skewers including chicken cartilage, heart, okra, and shiitake mushrooms. Each skewer offers rich flavors and fresh, perfectly seasoned meat.

Menu features tonkotsu ramen, yakitori combo with chicken cartilage, and Beef Gyudon. Dishes include fresh sashimi, perfectly seasoned yakitori, and takoyaki, all with rich flavors and authentic izakaya style.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The yakitori here is great, and the service is so attentive."

"The Japanese food here is authentic, flavorful, and perfectly grilled."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day after 9pm with half-off chicken skewers and buy one get one free beers.

2

After 10 PM, all chicken dishes are half off, making it a great deal.

3

The restaurant stays open until 12 am, perfect for late-night dining.

08
Mutsu image 1
Temaki restaurant

Stone-carved sushi bar with backlit onyx counter creates a warm, intimate atmosphere. Chefs prepare food in front of diners, adding to the engaging experience. Early 2000s hip hop music plays, blending modern vibes with Japanese-inspired design.

Wagyu Yakitori stands out for its tenderness and balance. Chicken Yakitori also features alongside fresh, well-prepared options like the Wagyu & Shiitake Yakitori.

Sea bream sashimi stands out with its world class quality. The Chirashi Bowl offers a perfectly balanced, flavorful experience. Grilled edamame comes perfectly charred and delicately seasoned. Sushi melts in your mouth, and miso soup ranks among the best ever tried.

People are saying

"The sushi here is excellent, with thoughtful touches."

"The Japanese food here is excellent, with Oscar's craft making it a joy."

"The Yakitori here is gorgeous and thoughtfully designed."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must to dine at Mutsu.

2

Seating is limited, so arrive early.

3

Almost half of the menu was unavailable when I was seated.

09
Gokumi Ramen & Yakitori image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Small space with an open kitchen and bar seating facing the skewer grill creates an authentic Japanese izakaya vibe. Atmosphere is cozy and lively, often featuring DJs and groups enjoying themselves. Sake selection is notable, complementing the well-crafted yakitori and ramen offerings.

Skewers feature wagyu A5 and all chicken items, both highly flavorful. Beef tongue and chicken heart stand out among the options. The yakitori chef delivers incredible quality with every bite.

Yakitori stands out with authentic skewers like beef tongue and chicken heart, prepared by an amazing chef. Tonkotsu ramen and fresh sashimi pair well with sake, all offered at great prices.

People are saying

"The yakitori here is some of the best I've had outside of Japan."

"It's a laid-back spot to chill with your crew and lose track of time."

"The yakitori here is some of the best I've had outside of Japan."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early or consider alternative transport.

3

Expect to spend over $100 for two people on average.

10
Torisoba Sumiya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Open kitchen with charcoal grill flames creates a cozy, lively atmosphere accented by warm wood and modern decor. Seating is tight but inviting, with a large wooden bar facing the kitchen and about 10 tables. The vibe blends authentic Tokyo style with casual comfort, making it quietly distinctive.

Chicken gets cooked perfectly, especially in the yakitori skewers and char shu. Yakitori Ramen combines both flavors well, though skewer size stays small due to kitchen limits.

Charcoal grilled chicken adds a smoky aroma and rich umami to the ramen. The broth is rich and flavorful, complementing the flame-kissed chicken and thick scallions for a unique taste.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food here has a uniquely smoky, charred chicken."

"The ramen here is super flavorful with perfectly chewy noodles."

"The rich chicken broth here is really filling."

Good to know

1

Parking is free with validation in the basement parkade.

2

Expect a five-minute wait before being seated during peak hours.

3

They stop accepting new guests at 9 pm, so arrive early.

11
Prime BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Interior blends subtle Japanese decor with upside-down umbrellas hanging from the ceiling, creating a cozy and refined atmosphere. Music complements the vibe without overpowering, supporting a chill dining experience. Tables feature heated trays to keep skewers warm, enhancing the relaxed pace of meals.

Yakitori here offers tons of flavor with selections like pork yakitori, chicken skins, and mushroom. The combo of five yakitori tastes great and rivals standards found in Japan.

Yakitori stands out with flavorful ribeye skewers and a variety of tasty selections. Udon dishes feature a rich, savory broth and perfectly chewy noodles, while sides like fried eggplant and vegetable tempura add great variety.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and tasty."

"The yakitori here is bursting with juicy, rich flavors."

"I loved the yakitori; it was grilled to perfection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 9:30 to 11:30pm, offering buy-one-get-one-free beer.

2

An 18% tip is automatically added to all bills.

3

Parking is available, but it may require a short walk.

12
Koshiji image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy space mimics a Japanese izakaya with a relaxed, authentic vibe. Small and often crowded, it draws those who appreciate authentic yakitori and a varied menu including grilled skewers and rice bowls. Reservations are common due to its popularity and intimate setting.

Incredibly authentic yakitori with a large selection of items including soboro rice bowls. Each skewer is cooked perfectly and offers a tasty, relaxing experience reminiscent of Japan.

Yakitori stands out with authentic flavors and perfect cooking every time. The menu includes a large selection like yakitori, soboro rice bowls, and yaki onigiri, all served in a cozy izakaya-style atmosphere.

People are saying

"The yakitori here is authentic and perfectly cooked."

"The food here was delicious and perfectly cooked."

"I considered this my go-to place for yakitori in Torrance."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets packed quickly.

2

The restaurant can get busy, so arrive early or call ahead.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

13
Izakaya Sojuya image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Cozy izakaya with dark interior and large TVs creates a casual, pleasant vibe. Constant music and complimentary popcorn set a friendly tone for groups and dates. Wide selection of reasonably priced soju complements a varied menu featuring delicious yakitori and quick service.

Chicken and beef yakitori arrive in 10-20 minutes depending on busyness. Options like Galbi, Spicy Pork Belly, and Spicy Chicken stand out while meatball yakitori lacks distinction.

Yakitori features chicken and beef skewers with options like Galbi and Spicy Pork Belly. Yakisoba pairs well with the skewers, and dishes can take 10-20 minutes during busy times.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and great."

"The Korean food, like the spicy pork belly, is really good."

"The Japanese food, especially the yakitori, was excellent."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes two hours before the restaurant's official closing time.

2

Happy hour ends at 6pm on Saturdays with discounted drinks.

3

Most menu items are fairly priced, making it budget-friendly.

14
Torihei Yakitori Robata Dining image 1

Small space with elbow-to-elbow bar seating creates a lively, authentic Izakaya vibe. Atmosphere feels warm and cozy but can be loud and crowded as more guests arrive. Yakitori skewers offer consistent, flavorful char and pair well with a variety of drinks.

Authentic Japanese yakitori shines here with flavors just like in Japan. The menu offers a variety of traditional and creative yakitori options, paired with drinks to match.

Yakitori here matches the authentic Japanese flavors with a variety of traditional and creative options. The place offers a solid izakaya vibe with good ambience and a selection of drinks to complement the skewers.

People are saying

"The sliced beef salad here is a must-try."

"I felt like I was eating yakitori in Japan."

"The yakitori here is just like the ones I'd eat in Japan."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended; expect a wait of up to 1.5 hours without one.

2

An automatic 18% gratuity is added for groups.

3

They charge $1 for water; no free water is provided.

15
Nanbankan image 1
Yakitori restaurant

Intimate yakitori restaurant with open kitchen counter seating and traditional Japanese decor creates a cozy, lively atmosphere. Small space fills quickly, offering an upscale yet vibrant dining experience where watching chefs grill skewers adds to the energy.

Yakitori here features authentic Japanese style with local ingredients. The skewers come seasoned with just enough salt and offer a delicious, intimate dining experience at both table and counter seating.

Yakitori stands out with authentic flavors and just enough salt seasoning. Grilled onigiri, Soboro Don rice, and black cod offer nicely grilled options alongside an intimate setting with table and counter seating.

People are saying

"I thought the yakitori here was the best I'd ever had."

"I found the authentic Japanese food really tasty and easy to enjoy."

"I thought this was the best Japanese food, my new local yakitori place."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must to dine at this popular yakitori restaurant.

2

Expect to wait if you don't have a reservation, especially on weekends.

3

Bring your vaccination card as it's required for entry.

16
Shin-Sen-Gumi Chanko - Gardena image 1

Small yakitori restaurant with cramped seating and a nostalgic Japanese pub vibe. Lively atmosphere filled with Japanese greetings and charcoal aroma, creating an authentic izakaya experience. Bar seating allows watching the grill, attracting those seeking traditional yakitori and drinks.

Char-grilled skewers come with minimal seasoning to highlight the freshness and quality of the meat, seafood, and vegetables. Small portions let you try many varieties, including negima tare and tsukune, often served with a garlic dipping sauce.

Grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables come with minimal seasoning to highlight freshness and quality. The menu features small portions of yakitori and special items, letting you try many flavors in one meal.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the delicious yakitori at a very reasonable price."

"I thought the ramen here was the best I ever had."

"The yakitori here is amazing, perfectly grilled and seasoned."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity and small size.

2

Expect at least a 10-minute wait even with a reservation.

3

The restaurant often sells out of popular items during lunch hours.

17
Hasu Japanese Izakaya & Grill image 1

Modern, upscale casual Japanese restaurant with a cozy, classy atmosphere and low lighting that supports easy conversation. Guests enjoy a sprawling menu of authentic yakitori and skewers, paired well with house sake. Reservations are common due to popularity, and the setting suits dates and relaxed dining.

Yakitori here is authentic and flavorful, capturing traditional Japanese style well. The skewers satisfy cravings with a delicious taste that pairs nicely with drinks.

Yakitori stands out with authentic, flavorful skewers done extremely well. A sprawling menu offers many options, paired with good service and a quality dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is great and unique."

"The yakitori here is delicious and flavorful."

"The yakitori here is authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

The last order is taken at 10pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Parking is available in the shared lot of the strip mall.

18
Torimatsu image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small counter-seated yakitori restaurant with authentic Japanese atmosphere and classic old-school vibe. The place feels comfortable and lively, often busy enough to require reservations. Skilled chef prepares varied chicken skewers with attention to traditional flavors and textures.

Skewers feature thoughtful preparation and grilling by a yakitori master. The menu focuses solely on authentic cuts of chicken and vegetables, delivering a genuine Japanese yakitori experience.

Authentic yakitori shines with carefully grilled chicken cuts and vegetables. The menu also features cha soba noodles and grilled rice balls, all prepared with skill and attention to detail.

People are saying

"The yakitori food here is authentic and thoughtfully prepared."

"This yakitori tastes just like Japan, with amazing flavors."

"This Japanese food tastes just like Japan, with perfectly grilled skewers."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required; call in advance as the restaurant fills up quickly.

2

The restaurant has very limited seating, so reservations for parties over 2 are highly recommended.

3

Dinner is limited to two hours, so plan your visit accordingly.

19
Izakaya Go Los Angeles image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japan-inspired interior creates a cozy, lively atmosphere with a stylish, inviting design. Large TV screens show NBA games, adding a sports-friendly vibe. The place draws a crowd seeking authentic Japanese izakaya experience with sushi, skewers, and sake.

Lots of yakitori options come grilled to order. The garlic lamb chop stands out as a flavorful choice. Yakitori pairs well with other authentic Japanese dishes like sashimi and stir fry.

Fresh sushi and sashimi melt in your mouth with every bite. The menu offers authentic Japanese food including yakitori skewers and unique dishes like monkfish liver and wasabi-marinated octopus.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and authentic Japanese."

"The sushi and sashimi here are incredibly fresh and delicious."

"The yakitori here is amazing, especially the succulent teriyaki wings."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

Happy hour runs from 5 to 6:30 pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Validated parking is available in the nearby lot with a restaurant receipt.

20
Sama Hand Roll / Grill image 1

Sleek design and minimalistic branding create an upscale and inviting atmosphere with perfect lighting and beautiful wall art. Spacious interior suits families, large parties, or intimate dinners with a calm, non-flashy vibe. Sake cocktails and exceptional hand rolls stand out alongside fusion dishes and quality grill options.

Chicken thigh and green onion yakitori come off the grill with a perfect char and juicy center. Yakitori is a rare offering here and pairs well with hand rolls and crispy rice tuna.

Handrolls feature crispy nori and perfectly seasoned rice with sashimi that melts in your mouth. Yakitori options include chicken thigh and green onion. Lobster dashi pasta stands out as a notable dish.

People are saying

"You have to try the crispy rice at this Lunch Spot; it's perfectly crunchy."

"The Japanese food here, especially the hand rolls, is so fresh and delicious."

"The yakitori here is flame-kissed and full of smoky, savory flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5:00-6:30pm with special menu items.

2

Parking is free for two hours with validation from the restaurant.

3

Validated parking is available on E 3rd St and Aliso parking.

21
Tada Ramen & Yakitori image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small ramen spot with Showa/shitamachi aesthetic and bold, fun posters creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Friendly staff and family-friendly amenities make it comfortable for all ages. Offers delicious ramen and yakitori with notable vegan options in a neighborhood vibe.

Charcoal grilling creates juicy, flavorful yakitori with expert seasoning. Squid and bacon scallop skewers stand out among the offerings.

Rich, flavorful broth and bouncy noodles define the ramen here, with toppings that are fresh and thoughtfully prepared. Yakitori stands out as some of the best around, making this spot rare for doing both dishes well.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the ramen and yakitori."

"The ramen here is a perfect 10, with rich broth and chewy noodles."

"The yakitori here is outstanding, perfectly grilled and juicy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 11:30 AM to 4:30 PM on weekdays, offering a free appetizer and drink with ramen.

2

Gyoza and hot tea are complimentary during happy hour.

3

The restaurant offers multiple vegan ramen options.

22
Shin-Sen-Gumi Robata & Yakitori - Fountain Valley image 1

Small, lively Japanese restaurant with an authentic atmosphere that feels like visiting Japan. The space is cozy and loud, creating a cheerful, upbeat vibe even when busy. Known for excellent yakitori and ramen, it draws crowds willing to wait for a seat.

Yakitori here offers a variety of skewers with very good flavor. The spot serves delicious small bites alongside the grilled items.

Authentic ramen stands out with rich flavors and tender chashu. Yakitori offers a variety of well-grilled skewers, and dishes like shrimp fried rice and takoyaki add to the solid Japanese menu.

People are saying

"I found the yakitori to be very good and top-notch."

"The ambience here is so authentic, it feels like you're in Japan."

"I loved the yakitori; it's the best Japanese food around."

Good to know

1

Expect a long wait on weekends after 6 pm without reservations.

2

Getting there ahead of opening is recommended to secure a seat.

3

The last call on Sunday is at 9:45 PM.

23
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.

Tasty yakitori includes a standout shrimp skewer. The menu pairs fresh fish with solid hand rolls and a large variety of yakitori options.

Yellowtail sashimi stands out with thin slices, fresh jalapeรฑo, and a delicate drizzle. The bluefin sashimi is fresh, clean, and flavorful. Hand rolls and yakitori offer solid options, all at reasonable prices.

People are saying

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

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

"The omakase yakitori here is a great value."

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.

24
ToriYen Sushi Ramen Japanese Restaurant image 1

Small Japanese restaurant offers authentic sushi and ramen with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Renovated space features positive vibes and smiles from owners and chefs, creating a cozy local spot that gets busy during peak hours.

Yakitori here stands out as delicious alongside tempura and sashimi. The flavors come through clearly and satisfy the craving for grilled skewers.

Ramen and sushi stand out with excellent flavors and authentic preparation. Yakisoba noodles, tempura, yakitori, and sashimi offer a solid variety of Japanese dishes in a small, friendly setting.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and tastes really good."

"You have to try the homemade ice cream, especially the fried wasabi."

"The Japanese food, especially the ramen and sushi, was amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but it's best to arrive early to avoid long waits.

2

The restaurant gets busy during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Prices are reasonable, making it a great value for sushi and ramen.

25
Hinotez image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant with traditional tatami seating and Japanese-themed decor creates a cozy, authentic izakaya vibe. Lounge area gets overcrowded and hot, while dining side offers a quieter experience. Late nights bring a lively atmosphere with locals enjoying unique ramen and yakitori dishes.

Asparagus bacon stands out among the yakitori options. The menu offers a wide variety including beef and pork, served in pairs from 5 to 8 pm. Yakitori here matches quality found in Japan and suits a nice night out.

Ramen stands out with tonkotsu broth and marinated ramen eggs that add rich flavor. Yakitori and sushi rolls offer solid options, while dishes like takoyaki and hot udon with mixed tempura round out the menu.

People are saying

"The tonkotsu ramen here is extremely flavorful and delicious."

"The yakitori here is juicy, especially the pork shiso."

"The Japanese Food here, especially the Avocado Tempura, is worth driving for."

Good to know

1

Hinotez offers happy hour deals on drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

2

Parking is available in the rear, off Balboa, with plenty of spaces.

3

Expect a wait time during peak hours on weekends, especially after 7pm.

26
Mugimaru + Toritetsu image 1
Udon noodle restaurant

Busy udon noodle restaurant offers plenty of seating both inside and outside, with a loud atmosphere during peak hours and quieter times off-peak. Menu features wide variety of udon, tempura, and rice bowls with crispy tempura and thick, chewy noodles praised for flavor and texture.

Offers a wide variety of yakitori served either hot or cold. Yakitori works well as a refreshing appetizer and pairs nicely with udon dishes.

Thick, chewy udon noodles come with a rich soup full of dashi flavor. Tempura stays crispy and fresh, with many options priced under $4, making it a solid choice for affordable Japanese food.

People are saying

"The udon here is thick, chewy, and amazing."

"The tempura is so fresh and flavorful."

"I loved the fresh tempura and amazing udon."

Good to know

1

Each tempura item costs under approximately $4, making it budget-friendly.

2

The restaurant offered a great variety of udon, tempura, and rice bowls.

3

The food court gets crowded but seating is usually available.

27
Enka Japanese Izakaya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with intimate low lighting and soft music creates a quiet, cozy atmosphere. Decor and drinks evoke Tokyo eateries, offering an authentic Japanese vibe. Tables are arranged to avoid crowding, supporting a relaxed dining pace.

Charcoal grilling gives the yakitori an authentic flavor. Chicken with sauce and beef with uni stand out as delicious highlights. The assortment includes binchotan grilled dishes that satisfy many.

Savory miso soup and authentic charcoal grilled yakitori stand out here. The menu features fresh sashimi like Hotate and rich, fatty Sake Sashimi, plus crispy tempura and golden fried chicken cartilage.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and fresh."

"The Japanese food here is authentic and delicious, especially the sashimi."

"The yakitori here is authentic and surprisingly delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features unique dishes not found at other Japanese restaurants.

2

Reverse happy hour is available, offering great deals late at night.

3

Lunch menus are available on weekends, providing more options.

28
Budonoki image 1
Restaurant

Intimate Japanese izakaya with cozy atmosphere and refined design featuring heated patio and creative cocktail presentation. Lighting and lively soundtrack create an electric vibe that blends fun with attention to detail. Signature drinks come in animal-shaped mugs, adding a playful touch to the experience.

Every bite of the Yakitori hits with a sodium bomb flavor. It stands alongside dishes like Charred Sweet Potato and Wagyu Beef for a rich, intense taste experience.

Izakaya-style dishes mix with an LA twist, featuring pressed sushi with torch-seared fish and bright green wasabi cream. Unique menu items like ozisushi, katsu, and a cold noodle egg dish stand out alongside spicy tuna hand rolls and yakisoba.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, full of flavor and beautifully presented."

"The Japanese food, especially the scallop crudo and pressed sushi, is amazing."

"I had an unforgettable dining experience with their Yakitori."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner service, especially for peak hours.

2

A 4% service charge is added to all bills for operational costs.

3

Street parking is the only option available, and it can be difficult to find.

29
Shin-Sen-Gumi 2GO - Gardena image 1

Drive-thru service offers a unique way to get ramen quickly. Indoor seating is clean and organized, with a few outdoor tables. The place attracts a diverse crowd craving Japanese fast food and serves affordable ramen with authentic flavors.

Aspara Maki stands out among the yakitori options. The place offers drive-thru ramen and yakitori, serving a diverse crowd craving yakitori don and ramen.

A unique drive-thru ramen and yakitori spot offers quick, tasty Japanese fast food with homemade soup that boosts flavor. Options include spicy ramen, chicken curry with udon, and Aspara Maki yakitori, all at affordable prices.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be simple, well-balanced, and delicious."

"I thought their curry was simple, yet very well balanced and delicious."

"I thought the Japanese food, especially the ramen, was simple, well balanced, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Each box contains 2 ramen bowls and costs $17.50 out the door.

2

They offer online ordering, takeout, and dine-in options.

3

The restaurant has a drive-thru for convenience.

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Opus Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers a modern, cozy atmosphere with a spacious interior and bar seating to watch chefs prepare fresh seafood. The vibe stays low-key yet sophisticated, suitable for quiet dinners or casual gatherings. Signature cocktails and rare menu items like Kobe Beef Tongue add unique touches to the experience.

Yakitori comes with a little char outside and stays juicy inside. The Kobe beef, lamb chop, and sweet shrimp stand out in flavor and texture.

Fresh sashimi stands out with thick-cut slices of salmon, yellowtail, tuna, and snapper that melt in your mouth. The sushi includes Kobe beef rolls and a toro & uni bowl, while the udon soup offers a clean, light broth with perfectly chewy noodles.

People are saying

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh, especially the live lobster and uni."

"The Japanese food here, especially the seafood, is so fresh it's still moving."

"The seafood here is so fresh and sweet."

Good to know

1

The parking is free, but it could be tight during dinner time.

2

They offer an online order special from Tuesday to Sunday, with 10% off pickup and free delivery.

3

Happy hour runs from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm with a buy two, get one free deal.

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