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Yakitori and ramen in California

You need a place that serves both high-quality yakitori and a steaming bowl of ramen.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Fujiya Ramen & Yakitori image 1
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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.

Broth and noodles deliver a very delicious and tasty bowl of ramen. The ramen stands out as the best ever had with consistently great flavor and quality.

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 chicken wings were outstanding, so juicy and crispy."

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.

02
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.

Rich, authentic broth reflects the chefs' Japanese roots. The chicken stock served at the end, called tori tori ramen, stands out as a distinctive feature.

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."

"The ramen broth here is rich and authentic, reflecting the chefs' Japanese roots."

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.

03
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 broth. Large bowls come packed with flame-kissed chicken and thick scallions, creating a unique and flavorful ramen experience.

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.

04
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.

Ramen here features perfectly cooked chewy noodles and rich, flavorful broths like spicy tonkotsu and yuzu shio. Options include warm, spicy, and fresh chicken broth ramen, all served 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 ramen broth here is super good."

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.

05
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.

Tonkotsu ramen stands out with rich, flavorful broth and tender chashu. The menu also includes curry chicken alongside consistently delicious ramen bowls.

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 considered this my trusted favorite place for ramen."

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.

06
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.

Tonkotsu ramen offers an extremely flavorful broth with marinated ramen eggs that stand out. Bowls cost around $15 and satisfy late night cravings with solid, classic flavors.

People are saying

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

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

"Parking is usually easy to find and there are plenty of spaces."

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.

07
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.

Ramen here features a rich broth with perfectly chewy noodles and fresh toppings. The spicy vegan ramen stands out with its exquisite flavor and creamy texture.

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 ramen broth is rich and flavorful with perfect noodles."

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.

08
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.

Excellent ramen stands out with rich flavors and satisfying portions. The spot pairs ramen with authentic sushi, creating a solid combo that appeals to many.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the ramen here to be fantastic."

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.

09
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.

Ramen here features tonkotsu broth with options like garlic chili and spicy miso. Bowls are large and fragrant, sometimes a bit overcooked, priced around $18 each.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

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

"I found the ramen here to be amazing and tasty."

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.

10
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.

Spicy ramen offers a good and flavorful broth with a generous soup base and just the right amount of meat. Food comes out fairly quickly, pairing well with gyoza.

People are saying

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

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

"It's lively and felt like a busy Japanese izakaya."

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.

11
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 drive-thru ramen spot offers quick takeout with a menu featuring roasted garlic ramen and spicy options. The soup is made in-house, giving the ramen a fresh, rich flavor that stands out from ready-made broths.

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 loved the fresh, delicious Yakitori here."

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.

12
Okan Diner image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, cozy Japanese diner with warm wood paneling and City-Pop music playing softly. Atmosphere feels laidback and nostalgic, resembling casual spots in Japan. Popular for authentic home-style comfort food and ideal for solo diners or small groups.

Chicken Thigh Yakitori comes out hot and juicy with solid flavor. Pork Belly Yakitori can be tough and unevenly cooked. Options include a variety of meats to enjoy different tastes.

Duck ramen stands out with its rich, flavorful broth. The menu also features solid options like Udon and other Japanese specialties.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the curry, is hearty and flavorful."

"I found the yakitori to be extremely good and juicy."

"The duck ramen here is so flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is tight in the area, so expect to park elsewhere or wait.

2

Happy hour offers many choices, including discounted appetizers.

3

Prices are generally modest, making it a budget-friendly option.

13
Shin-Sen-Gumi YAKITORI image 1
Yakitori restaurant

Yakitori restaurant offers an authentic, lively atmosphere with worn tables and chairs that suggest long-term love and use. It gets very crowded on weekends, creating a loud and echoey environment. Seating includes wood benches and bar spots along the kitchen, adding to the casual, cozy vibe.

Yakitori here features a great selection including chicken hearts and cartilage. The cooks expertly fan the skewers, adding to the authentic experience. The smell is fantastic and the taste is very good.

Broth stands out as flavorful and rich, paired with juicy pork belly that falls apart. Options include soft or hard boiled eggs, making it a solid choice for a quick, satisfying ramen fix.

People are saying

"I loved the yakitori, especially the chicken hearts and cartilage."

"The yakitori food here is surprisingly good, especially the hearts and cartilage."

"I found the yakitori here to be so delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 9 pm to close, Monday to Thursday.

2

Parking can be difficult; consider arriving early or visiting on weeknights.

3

Bowls of ramen start at $30, with additional toppings costing extra.

14
Ippuku image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Dark, traditional izakaya space with Japanese decor and private two-seater tables creates an intimate, cool vibe. Expansive whiskey bar and exceptional sake selection complement authentic yakitori and grilled skewers. Atmosphere suits small groups and dates seeking a quiet, immersive experience.

Grilled yakitori here is authentic and includes a variety of choices like liver, neck, and negima. The omakase yakitori offers a superb selection that rivals even Tokyo's yakitori spots.

Hearty chicken ramen features fresh chicken cubes in a warming white soup. The ramen feels filling and pairs well with skewers.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the grilled skewers, is amazing."

"The atmosphere here is cool, with chill music and happy people."

"The chicken ramen is hearty and warming."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets packed quickly.

2

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

3

You can order at the bar, but seating is not guaranteed without a reservation.

15
Marufuku Ramen Campbell image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant combines modern chic with izakaya coziness in a spacious, comfortable setting featuring indoor and outdoor seating. The atmosphere offers lowkey speakeasy vibes enhanced by a bar, creating a relaxed yet lively energy. It attracts groups with varied tastes, balancing authentic flavors with a welcoming environment.

Juicy, smoky skewers come seasoned just right. Yakitori is available here, unlike the Cupertino spot.

Broth stands out with its silky, pork-rich flavor and the noodles are perfectly chewy. Five ramen types let you pick your favorite, with the Tonkatsu Ramen and Ramen Special being especially notable.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is amazing and rich."

"It's so kid friendly, they even give tokens for the gacha machine!"

"The Yakitori skewers were juicy, smoky, and seasoned just right."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult during peak hours, especially for dinner.

2

Getting on the waitlist on Yelp is recommended due to long lines.

3

The kids' menu offers great value and includes a token for a toy vending machine.

16
Yakyudori image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small dining area combines group tables and bars with a casual, intimate vibe. Loud hip-hop music contrasts with Japanese greetings and authentic food presentation. Electronic tablet ordering and live sports broadcasts add a modern, lively touch.

Yakitori cooks over Binchotan charcoal for an authentic flavor. The menu features beef yakitori alongside excellent ramen in a casual setting.

Spicy tonkotsu ramen stands out with rich flavor and satisfying heat. The ramen pairs well with pork neck skewers and beef yakitori, creating a hearty meal.

People are saying

"The food here is great and reminds me of Japan."

"I found the yakitori to be really solid and authentic."

"The spicy miso ramen here is flavorful and a perfect portion."

Good to know

1

Yakyudori has a ramen eating challenge; finish in 2 minutes to get it for free.

2

If the Padres win, enjoy a shot for just $0.01.

3

Happy hour specials are available, offering discounts on drinks and appetizers.

17
Sushi Yorimichi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small, cozy sushi restaurant with intimate atmosphere and authentic Tokyo vibes. Limited seating creates a warm, inviting space often packed with charm. Music adds to the serene, chill energy, making it ideal for quiet meals or dates.

Small portions define the yakitori here, with servings around 3-4 pieces each. Despite the size, the yakitori remains tasty and part of a broad menu including ramen and sushi.

Birria ramen stands out as better than anywhere else in the area. The pork katsu curry and spicy ramen also deliver strong flavors. Rice bowls and matcha tiramisu complement the ramen well.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazingly fresh and well-priced."

"I found the ramen here to be better than anywhere else."

"This tiny Yakitori spot is not suitable for large groups."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6 PM with discounted prices on select items.

2

The restaurant can only accommodate about 25 customers at a time.

3

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and popularity.

18
Kyuramen x TBaar - Arcadia image 1

Interior features honeycomb-shaped tables, unique seating options, and VIP rooms that create a cozy, authentic vibe. Music plays consistently, enhancing a surreal atmosphere reminiscent of Japan. Interactive elements like a game to win prizes and a tree for hanging omamori add playful touches.

Negima stands out as a favorite yakitori dish here. The yakitori platter offers a good variety, letting you try several types in one order.

Rich, flavorful broth defines the ramen here, especially the tonkotsu ramen which balances saltiness well. The yin yang ramen stands out with its creative blend of two flavors in one bowl.

People are saying

"I loved the ramen's rich, flavorful broth."

"The desserts, like the cherry blossom jelly, were refreshing and unique."

"The yakitori platter lets you try a little bit of everything."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited due to the location next to other small restaurants and coffee shops.

2

Expect a one-hour wait time during peak hours, which can extend to two and a half hours.

3

Ramen bowls cost around $20 each before tax, with smaller portion sizes.

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