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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of California

Yakitori and Soup

Made for those who want to balance the smoky char of yakitori with the comforting warmth of a bowl of soup.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
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Updated May 2026
01
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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.

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.

Torigara soup stands out with its mizutaki broth that rivals versions from Fukuoka. Steamed egg soup and chicken soup in the clay pot rice add to the rich chicken flavors throughout the meal.

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 the best I've tried."

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
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.

Miso soup stands out with its fresh mushrooms and elevated flavors. Simple dishes like miso soup taste rich and satisfying.

People are saying

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

"The Yakitori here is gorgeous and thoughtfully designed."

"I thought the miso soup was fabulous and the best I've ever tried."

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.

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.

Soup comes with perfectly chewy noodles and has a balanced saltiness that stands out from other ramen spots. It consistently hits the spot without overwhelming the palate.

People are saying

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

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

"The ramen soup here is rich, flavorful, and perfectly simmered."

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
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.

Thick, flavorful soup bases stand out here. Tonkatsu soup offers umami richness with seaweed, bamboo shoots, mushrooms, half boiled egg, and pork Chashu, while yuzu soup feels refreshing with green onions and a spicy ball.

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 soup base here is thick and full of flavors."

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.

05
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.

Beef soup features a rich broth with lots of meat, standing out from the usual miso soup. Side order soup complements the mostly delicious yakitori well.

People are saying

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

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

"The beef broth soup had lots of meat and was very satisfying."

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.

06
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.

Chicken Paitan soup stands out with its creamy and flavorful profile. The ramen soup matches that quality, delivering a rich and satisfying broth reminiscent of authentic Japanese chicken soup noodles.

People are saying

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

"This chicken soup is smoky, flavorful, and perfectly cooked."

"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.

07
Izakaya Ichie image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Space blends modern sushi bar with classic izakaya vibe featuring cozy, intimate atmosphere and R&B music that sets a relaxed mood. Guests use magical girl wands to call servers, adding a playful touch. The spot suits casual dates and late-night hangouts with fresh sashimi and a wide sake variety.

Assorted skewers come with varied meats and sauces that enhance each bite. The Yakitori Platter Ultimate offers mini dishes on sticks, making it easy to share and enjoy multiple flavors.

Miso soup arrives quickly and pairs well with dishes like honey garlic karaage and oden. It complements the meal with a warm, savory touch.

People are saying

"The service at these dinner spots is so kind and attentive."

"The yakitori here is perfectly cooked and so flavorful."

"The miso soup here hits the spot and is to die for."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

Parking is available at the Source Mall on the 1st floor, at the back.

3

No reservation is needed since there's plenty of space.

08
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.

Rich and flavorful soup base stands out with thick noodles adding substance. Some servings show excessive saltiness and limited noodle or soup quantity.

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 soup base here is rich and flavorful."

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.

09
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.

Chicken soup comes with tsukune, or chicken meatballs, adding rich flavor. It appears as part of the Torimatsu course, which includes 10 skewers, soup, salad, and ice cream.

People are saying

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

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

"The yakitori skewers were thoughtfully prepared and perfectly grilled."

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.

10
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.

Miso soup comes with meals and is packed with flavor. It has a good broth to ingredients ratio and often arrives alongside free edamame starters.

People are saying

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

"The miso soup here is surprisingly good and packed with flavor."

"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.

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.

Soup here uses house-made broth that enhances the ramen's flavor beyond ready-made options. Occasionally, the soup order gets mixed up in the drive-thru, delivering a different soup than requested.

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."

"Their homemade soup makes the ramen taste so much better."

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
Izakaya Mi Young image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Downstairs setting with ukiyo-e curtains at tables creates privacy while the bar offers a cozy appeal. Atmosphere feels lively and warm, suited for dates and casual nights. Decor channels an authentic Tokyo izakaya vibe, blending traditional style with inviting energy.

Skewers come out mouthwatering and packed with flavor. Yakitori pairs well with other perfect drinking snacks like cheesy eel and agedashi tofu.

The aged fish soup offers an authentic Japanese flavor and stands out as delicious. The spicy seafood soup lacks seafood and tastes bad.

People are saying

"The yakitori skewers were so delicious, every single bite."

"The sushi here is so fresh, especially the uni."

"I found the aged fish soup delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking can be validated in the plaza for only 3 dollars.

2

The menu offers a wide range of dishes including sushi, sashimi, and grilled meats.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food and drinks offered.

13
Yakitori Edomasa image 1
Yakitori restaurant

Small, cozy yakitori restaurant with authentic Japanese ambiance and traditional decorations. Atmosphere stays calm and quiet even when full, with a clean, modern interior and kitchen in view. Offers high-quality skewers and a variety of sake and beers, creating a relaxed dining experience.

Charcoal grilling gives the yakitori a nicely smoky flavor with options like thigh, skin, and heart skewers. The menu includes Wagyu yakitori with wasabi for a unique twist, all served in a casual yet precise atmosphere.

Soup stands out with super flavorful taste and includes options like pasta soup and grilled eggplant. Sets often pair soup with multiple meats, salad, and rice for a complete meal.

People are saying

"The yakitori, especially the grilled thighs and bonjiri, were delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's food is really well flavored and tasty."

"I loved the warm and tasty dashi and paitan soup."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; a walk-in waiting list is available with 35-55 minute wait times.

2

A 5.2% 'SF Mandate' charge is added to the bill without prior notice.

3

The skewers are priced at $5 each, which is reasonable for the quality.

14
HATCH image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a beautiful space with calm, peaceful vibe suited for intimate dining. Loud 90s music and low lighting create a lively yet dim atmosphere. Bar seating provides views of kitchen prep and creative Japanese dishes stand out alongside interesting cocktails inspired by Japanese whiskey.

Skewers shine with Chicken Meatball with egg yolk and tare and Wagyu & Wasabi offering rich but balanced flavors. The chicken and green onion yakitori also stands out for its excellent taste.

Sweet grilled corn blends with salty miso in the miso corn soup, offering a slight sweetness from roasted corn. The miso soup stays traditional and perfect for a rainy day.

People are saying

"These dinner spots offer unique, crispy squid ink karaage and perfectly grilled yakitori."

"The yakitori is perfectly grilled and packed with smoky binchotan flavor."

"The miso corn soup is perfectly balanced with sweet corn."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy hours.

2

Parking validation is available to avoid extra charges.

3

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 pm with $10 Japanese highballs.

15
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.

Spicy salmon and miso soups stand out with rich flavors. Curry udon soup offers a hearty option, while biria ramen soup has very little broth.

People are saying

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

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

"The shiso complemented the roe quite well in the soup."

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.

16
MORI Izakaya image 1
Modern izakaya restaurant

Modern izakaya restaurant offers a spacious layout with traditional Japanese decor and warm lighting that creates a cozy atmosphere. Japanese music plays throughout, enhancing the immersive vibe. The place suits gatherings with friends and features private rooms for celebrations.

Grilled hot to order, the yakitori features fresh fish and high quality beef. The ribeye beef cap and quail eggs stand out as flavorful highlights.

Large Oden Soup and Nagasaki Jjampong stand out with rich, hearty flavors. Miso soup and egg drop soup offer simple, delicious options.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared."

"The yakitori here is perfectly cooked, tender, and juicy."

"The Nagasaki Jjampong soup was perfectly executed and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on weekdays and Sundays with drinks priced between $5-9.

2

The happy hour menu features a variety of delicious options.

3

Parking is available, but it can be a bit awkward to access.

17
Kappo Miyabi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Minimalist design blends traditional Japanese elements with modern charm in a serene, elegant space. Open kitchen adds interactive dining energy while booths provide privacy. Atmosphere suits both casual and intimate meals with a calm, authentic vibe.

Yakitori grill stands out alongside sushi and noodle soups. Skewers come without dipping sauce and offer a simple, enjoyable flavor.

Miso noodle soup offers a rich, savory flavor. The beef noodle soup comes in a hot stone pot, keeping it warm and enhancing the taste.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The mushroom soup here is $35, which is quite expensive."

"The chicken skin yakitori here is especially enjoyable."

Good to know

1

The Omakase experience offers a curated selection of sushi and sashimi.

2

A 22% service charge is automatically added to the bill.

3

Expect to pay around $35-$50 for udon dishes.

18
X-FISH Izakaya Brea image 1
Sushi restaurant

Spacious interior combines wood accents and stylish lighting with a modern vibe and plenty of open space for groups. Atmosphere is lively and often noisy, making conversation across tables difficult. Known for fresh sushi and an all-you-can-eat menu that includes ramen, udon, and skewers.

Chicken yakitori skewers come straight from the grill with chicken skins, green onion, and chicken breast. The omakase includes yakitori served right at the table.

Noodle soups stand out with deep flavor and excellent taste. Miso soup hits the mark without being too salty, which is rare for all you can eat spots.

People are saying

"The all-you-can-eat seafood here is 100% worth it."

"The omakase included Yakitori served right at your table."

"I was surprised by how delicious the miso soup was."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant is open until midnight every day for late-night dining.

3

Free parking is available in the adjacent parking structure.

19
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.

Rich tonkotsu soup pairs well with very thin noodles that have a nice texture. The soup base leans toward the saltier end, so ordering noodles on the side helps control saltiness.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is amazing and rich."

"The ramen soup here is rich and flavorful."

"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.

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