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Local picks in California

Yakitori

The smell of charcoal-grilled skewers is the only thing on the mind right now.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Restaurant

Cozy seaside spot serves tender yakitori with fresh chicken wings, wagyu, and seafood. Minimal design and bright lighting create an inviting vibe. Lively atmosphere blends 90s hip hop with authentic Japanese flavors.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"I loved the wagyu steak skewers, they were surprisingly affordable."

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.

02
Fujiya Ramen & Yakitori image 1

Cozy Showa-style decor creates a nostalgic vibe perfect for casual visits. Charcoal-grilled yakitori delivers a smoky aroma with perfectly seasoned chicken wings. Friendly staff enhance the experience with thoughtful gifts, making every visit warm and welcoming.

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.

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.

03
Sakura House image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy space with a charcoal grill sets a warm tone. Yakitori is expertly grilled, blending authentic Japanese BBQ with California flavors. Beatles music adds a relaxed vibe to this lively, unpretentious spot.

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

People are saying

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

"I thought the Owari chicken wings were the best I ever ate."

"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.

04
Izakaya Fusion Grill Keitan image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Japanese-style barbecue shines with tabletop grills and an open kitchen where chefs grill fresh yakitori skewers like chicken cartilage and shiitake mushrooms. Intimate izakaya vibe blends with live anime-themed music creating a cozy yet lively spot perfect for yakitori lovers and casual diners alike.

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.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

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

"The atmosphere here is so cozy and inviting."

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.

05
Sushi K's Bistro Costa Mesa image 1

Small sushi bar offers an authentic Japanese vibe with fresh sushi and a diverse sake selection. Wagyu yakitori shines with rich flavor and tender texture. Calm atmosphere and peaceful jazz create a cozy dining experience.

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

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.

06
Yakitori Taisho image 1
Yakitori restaurant

Small space fills with charcoal smoke and lively noise, creating a cozy vibe for casual gatherings. Authentic Japanese home-style yakitori shines with classic flavors and unique Brussel sprouts yakitori. Outdoor tables have propane heaters for comfort.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"I found this place to be a hidden gem."

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
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. Enjoy fresh, juicy skewers that capture authentic Japanese flavors. Cozy yet stylish vibe blends lively music with intimate conversation for a modern izakaya feel.

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.

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 Wagyu skewer melted in my 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.

08
Torisoba Sumiya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Open kitchen with charcoal grill flames creates a lively vibe. Yakitori skewers shine with perfectly cooked chicken and small size. Cozy seating at a large wooden bar blends Tokyo style with casual comfort.

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.

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.

09
Prime BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Cozy spot with upside-down umbrellas and subtle Japanese decor sets a refined mood. Yakitori shines with pork and chicken skins that rival Japan's best. Heated trays keep skewers warm, making every bite perfect in a chill setting.

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.

People are saying

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

"It's a great late night spot that's open really late."

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

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.

10
Gokumi Ramen & Yakitori image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Small space with an open kitchen and bar seating creates an authentic izakaya vibe. Yakitori features wagyu A5 and chicken heart, cooked to perfection. Sake selection is notable, pairing well with lively atmosphere and DJ sets.

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.

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 tonkotsu ramen broth has a rich, deep flavor with a subtle kick."

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.

11
Koshiji image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy space with a relaxed, authentic vibe draws fans of authentic yakitori and varied grilled skewers. Perfectly cooked skewers and soboro rice bowls offer a true taste of Japan. Small, often crowded setting means reservations are wise for a smooth visit.

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.

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.

12
Izakaya Sojuya image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Cozy izakaya offers a casual vibe with dark interiors and large TVs. Yakitori like Spicy Pork Belly and Galbi arrive quickly and taste great. Enjoy a wide selection of reasonably priced soju alongside complimentary popcorn and constant music.

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.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and great."

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

"I enjoyed the yakitori; it was delicious."

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.

13
Nanbankan image 1
Yakitori restaurant

Intimate yakitori spot offers authentic Japanese skewers with perfect salt seasoning. Open kitchen and traditional decor create a cozy, lively vibe. Small space fills fast, making it an upscale yet vibrant dining experience.

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.

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."

"It's a great spot for a romantic date night."

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.

14
Enka Japanese Izakaya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with intimate low lighting creates a cozy vibe. Charcoal grilling gives authentic yakitori flavor with highlights like chicken sauce and beef uni. Tables avoid crowding, making dining relaxed and quiet.

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.

People are saying

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

"The happy hour yakitori and binchotan grilled dishes really satisfied."

"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.

15
Shin-Sen-Gumi Chanko - Gardena image 1

Small yakitori spot offers char-grilled skewers with fresh meat and seafood. Cramped seating and lively chatter create a nostalgic pub vibe. Bar seats let you watch grilling, perfect for fans of traditional izakaya 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.

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.

16
Mutsu image 1
Temaki restaurant

Stone-carved sushi bar offers an intimate vibe with a backlit onyx counter and chefs preparing food in front of diners. Wagyu Yakitori shines for its tenderness and balance, alongside fresh chicken options. Early 2000s hip hop music adds a modern vibe to the 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.

People are saying

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

"The Wagyu Yakitori was flawlessly tender and delicious."

"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.

17
Torimatsu image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small yakitori spot offers authentic Japanese atmosphere with a lively, classic vibe. Skilled chef grills varied chicken skewers focusing on traditional flavors. Busy place often needs reservations, ensuring a genuine and intimate dining experience.

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.

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.

18
Torihei Yakitori Robata Dining image 1

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

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.

People are saying

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

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

"You should try the sake options and beers."

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.

19
Hinotez image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese spot offers traditional tatami seating and a cozy izakaya vibe. Yakitori shines with asparagus bacon and quality meats served in pairs. Late nights bring a lively crowd enjoying unique ramen and a quieter dining side.

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.

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.

20
Sama Hand Roll / Grill image 1

Sleek design and perfect lighting create an upscale vibe for families and intimate dinners. Yakitori shines with juicy grilled chicken thigh paired with hand rolls and crispy rice tuna. Sake cocktails add a unique twist to the fusion menu 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.

People are saying

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

"The Wagyu short ribs were so moist and cooked just right."

"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
Hasu Japanese Izakaya & Grill image 1

Modern, upscale casual Japanese spot offers authentic yakitori with rich flavors. Cozy, classy vibe with low lighting makes it perfect for dates. Extensive menu pairs well with house sake, creating a relaxed dining experience.

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

People are saying

"The food here is great and unique."

"The yakitori here is delicious and flavorful."

"It's modern, clean, and classy inside."

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.

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

Small, lively spot with an authentic atmosphere that feels like Japan. Yakitori shines with varied skewers and tasty small bites. Cozy space buzzes with energy, making it a great place for excellent ramen and social dining.

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

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 thought the ramen here was pretty good."

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
Tada Ramen & Yakitori image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small ramen spot with Showa aesthetic offers juicy, flavorful yakitori grilled over charcoal. Friendly staff and family-friendly amenities create a warm vibe. Notable vegan options make it welcoming for all diets.

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

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.

24
Mugimaru + Toritetsu image 1
Udon noodle restaurant

Busy udon spot shines with thick, chewy noodles and crispy tempura. Yakitori here is a refreshing appetizer served hot or cold, pairing well with main dishes. Seating is ample inside and out, with a lively vibe during peak hours.

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

People are saying

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

"The tempura is so fresh and flavorful."

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

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.

25
Izakaya BIZAN image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Izakaya-style spot offers authentic Japanese atmosphere with calming energy and J-Pop tunes. Yakitori is crispy and delicious, a must-try alongside karaage. Shochu selection is solid, perfect for relaxing with friends.

Yakitori comes out crispy and delicious here. It stands out as a top choice alongside other dishes like karaage and fish head.

People are saying

"You have to try the yakitori; the chicken skin and hearts are amazing."

"The seafood here is delicious and full of flavor."

"I thought the sushi was top notch and super fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers from 4-6 PM on weekdays.

3

Parking validation is available for customers dining at the restaurant.

26
ToriYen Sushi Ramen Japanese Restaurant image 1

Small Japanese spot shines with authentic sushi and delicious yakitori. Cozy vibe and friendly staff make it perfect for families. Expect warm smiles and busy peak hours.

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

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 yakitori here makes you feel like you're in Japan."

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.

27
Shin-Sen-Gumi 2GO - Gardena image 1

Drive-thru service delivers quick ramen with authentic flavors. Indoor seating is clean and organized, plus outdoor tables add charm. Yakitori shines with Aspara Maki, making it a top spot for yakitori don and ramen lovers.

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.

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.

28
Fire Wok Hot Pot image 1
Hot pot restaurant

Robot-powered kitchen creates a modern, spacious setting with cozy vibes for casual hangouts. Asian fusion menu offers large portions and affordable prices, featuring hot pots and sizzling plates. Yakitori shines with scallops and beef belly skewers that pair well with soju.

BBQ skewers and yakitori have a flavor close to Asian BBQ restaurants. Scallops and beef belly yakitori stand out as distinctive favorites. Soju pairs well with the grilled skewers.

People are saying

"The food portions here are incredibly generous."

"Their bibimbap comes with lots of vegetables and protein options."

"I thought the yakitori and skewers were delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour deals are available, check for specific times.

2

Parking is available nearby, making it convenient to visit.

3

There is a buy one get one free offer for specific dishes, including hot pot.

29
Okan Diner image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy diner with warm wood paneling and soft City-Pop music sets a nostalgic mood. Yakitori shines with hot, juicy chicken thigh but pork belly can be tough. Perfect for solo diners craving authentic home-style comfort food.

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.

People are saying

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

"The udon here is super creamy and unique."

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

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.

30
Yokohama Yakitori Koubou image 1
Japanese restaurant

Enjoy juicy Jidori chicken skewers grilled to perfection in a lively izakaya setting. Authentic decor with sports memorabilia adds charm to the fast, flavorful bites. The vibe shifts from energetic to calm, making it a quick, cozy spot for yakitori and drinks.

Yakitori here is perfectly grilled and incredibly flavorful, made with juicy Jidori chicken for authentic taste. The skewers offer a dependable, comforting experience every time.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and has balanced flavors."

"The yakitori here is perfectly grilled and incredibly flavorful."

"Parking can be tricky, with few spots available."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary to avoid long wait times at this izakaya.

2

Expect at least an hour wait for food without a reservation.

3

Parking can be tricky, but arriving early usually helps find a spot.

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