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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Gardena

Authentic Japanese food

Japanese food that stays true to its roots instead of adapting every dish to fit a generic menu.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Kanpachi sushi and sake image 1
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Sushi restaurant

Small sushi bar offers authentic Japanese atmosphere with a cozy, noisy vibe. Guests enjoy fresh, perfectly prepared sushi and traditional omakase in a no-frills setting. Portions are smaller but paired with carefully balanced flavors and classic beverages like Orion beer.

Sushi here stays authentic and fresh with a clear focus on high quality. The whole experience feels super authentic, capturing the true essence of Japanese sushi and sake.

Sushi here is authentic and fresh, with smaller rice nigiri that balance flavors well. The omakase menus offer a variety of nigiri, miso soup, and chawanmushi at fair prices, showcasing skillful preparation and quality ingredients.

People are saying

"The omakase here is fantastic and fairly priced."

"The seafood here is so fresh and perfectly prepared."

"I thought the sushi and sake here felt really authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner to ensure a table.

2

Parking is limited in the small shopping center where the restaurant is located.

3

Expect smaller portion sizes compared to other sushi places.

02
Sakae Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small, hole-in-the-wall sushi spot with a family-owned, takeout-only setup creates a cozy, intimate vibe. Atmosphere feels like a Japanese home, inviting quiet conversation and shared moments. Sushi features large, fresh pieces with traditional pressed styles and a sweet, balanced rice flavor.

Sushi here tastes very authentic and original with flavors that stay true to tradition. The ramen also delivers an authentic and delicious experience.

Sushi here features meticulously prepared pieces with laser-cut precision and consistent size and taste. The California rolls stand out as simple, fresh, and large, offering a homestyle, to-go experience that feels like a special treat.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh, delicious, and high quality."

"I loved the simple, fresh, homestyle sushi here."

"The sushi here tastes so fresh and authentic."

Good to know

1

Sakae Sushi is takeout only with no dine-in options.

2

They only accept cash payments, no credit cards.

3

Ordering ahead is recommended to avoid long wait times.

03
TOSHI SUSHI image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, cozy Japanese restaurant offers fresh sushi and authentic omakase with a fun, lively atmosphere where staff and customers share laughs. Clean and comfortable space includes a corner with interesting memorabilia.

Japanese food here stays true to its roots with high-quality ingredients and dishes like tonkatsu that reflect authentic preparation.

Omakase offers a superb dining experience with extremely fresh sushi and top notch miso soup. The garlic edamame adds a wonderful touch to the meal.

People are saying

"I experienced some of the best, freshest sushi I've ever had."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh, especially the fish."

"I found the Japanese food here to be authentic and a few notches up."

Good to know

1

Parking is tough when busy, but adjacent lots are available.

2

The price of the omakase set is very reasonable.

3

Portions are shareable, making it perfect for groups.

04
Fukuno Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small family-run izakaya with cozy interior and sushi bar seating for about 8-10 people. Atmosphere feels like traditional Japanese countryside, offering authentic dishes prepared with care. Space fills quickly during dinner, attracting groups seeking an intimate, genuine experience.

Cozy atmosphere with izakaya style tapas sets a genuine tone. Menu features authentic Japanese dishes that capture the true flavors of Japan.

Izakaya style tapas create a cosy, authentic atmosphere with dishes like Gindara Misoyaki and Tori Kushiyaki Yuzukosho. The sushi and sashimi are incredibly fresh and expertly prepared, featuring items like Fukuno Special Nigiri and grilled oysters.

People are saying

"The sushi here feels like a trip to the Japanese countryside."

"The food here is top tier and always fresh."

"The Japanese food here is so fresh, especially the sushi and sashimi."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.

2

The restaurant is only open for dinner service.

3

Expect a cozy atmosphere suitable for small groups.

05
Kotohira Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with wooden stalls and booths creates a cozy, old-school Japanese home kitchen vibe. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, offering a warm, inviting setting that feels authentic and calming. Regulars enjoy large portions and reasonable prices alongside a pleasant music system.

Homely atmosphere pairs with authentic Japanese cuisine and genuine ambiance. The dining experience feels true to traditional flavors and settings.

Udon dishes stand out with flavorful broth and delicious tempura sides. The menu also features addictive spam musubi and a variety of sushi options like Inari and chef’s special platters.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing, especially the fresh sushi."

"I found the udon soup here to be amazing and delicious."

"I found the food and ambiance to be authentic."

Good to know

1

The menu offers an extensive selection of sushi, sashimi, and izakaya-style dishes.

2

Parking can be busy depending on the time, so arrive early or be prepared to walk.

3

The restaurant offers Japanese set menus with options to substitute udon, soba, or seimen.

06
Jidaiya Ramen Dining image 1
Ramen restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall ramen spot with retro Japanese style and authentic flair creates a quaint, intimate atmosphere reminiscent of small-town Nippon. Soft music and comfortable interior enhance the vibe, making it feel like dining in a Ginza alley. Regulars enjoy rich, flavorful ramen at reasonable prices.

Ramen here has broth from various regions with layers of complexity. The place carries an authentic Japanese flair and serves ramen close to what you'd find in hidden spots in Kabukicho, Tokyo.

Ramen here features thick, rich tonkotsu broth and a complex, flavorful Tokyo-Yatai ramen. The spicy miso ramen offers a perfectly thick broth with a good kick and chashu adds extra depth.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is rich, flavorful, and not too salty."

"The ramen here has amazing, rich, and flavorful broth."

"I found the ramen here to be truly authentic Japanese."

Good to know

1

There’s plenty of free parking in the attached lot.

2

Jidaiya Ramen Dining stays open all day.

3

The menu has a great variety in ramen and donburi.

07
Tomizo Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small space offers a cozy, intimate vibe with Japanese music and anime playlists enhancing the atmosphere. Seating includes bar-style spots and small tables, creating a casual, welcoming environment. Limited capacity and no alcohol service distinguish the setting from typical ramen spots.

Dipping ramen offers an authentic taste with fresh ingredients. Food comes cheap and plentiful, capturing traditional flavors well.

Ramen here is super huge and flavorful, with options like butter miso ramen with fresh scallops and shoyu ramen. The spot stays open late, making it a solid choice for late-night ramen cravings.

People are saying

"This ramen's broth is so rich and flavorful."

"The ramen here is delicious, with a rich and flavorful broth."

"The ramen here tastes authentically like Japan."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so it's better to park at Tozai Plaza and walk over.

2

The restaurant can only accommodate up to 25 people.

3

Tomizo Ramen is only open for dinner now.

08
Izakaya Akatsuki image 1
Japanese restaurant

Roomy interior with Japanese floor seating and private rooms creates a cozy, homey vibe. Atmosphere feels authentic and inviting, with curtained booths adding privacy. Busy and lively, it draws those seeking authentic udon and a traditional izakaya experience.

Simple interior sets the tone for authentic Japanese food. Udon noodles stand out as delicious and true to tradition.

Thick noodles carry sauce well in the handmade udon and hand-cut soba. Dishes like spicy kimchi udon, maze udon, and curry udon katsu offer well-seasoned flavors with chewy textures.

People are saying

"The udon noodles at this Lunch Spot are amazing with thick noodles carrying sauce."

"The Mentai Cream Hot Pot Udon was so delicious."

"The Mentai Cream Hot Pot is delicious and perfect for sharing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is closed on Tuesdays.

2

Parking is easy even on weekends.

3

Get there early on weekends to avoid long waits.

09
Oh! BANZAI image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with open kitchen and spacious bar seating creates an intimate, cozy vibe. Atmosphere feels authentic Japanese modern and clean, though noise levels can rise with lively groups. Seating includes sushi bar and tables, with ordering done via tablet above a conveyor belt.

The place offers an authentic Japanese modern atmosphere with food that stays true to traditional flavors and maintains high quality throughout.

Dry ramen offers a tangy-spicy kick with light, flavorful broth. Hand-rolled sushi shines with sea urchin, negitoro, and beef options. Garlic chili edamame and chicken skin wrapped gyoza add bold, savory bites.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and feels like a higher level dining experience."

"The Japanese food, especially the hand rolls, was fresh and amazing."

"The atmosphere here feels so authentic and modern."

Good to know

1

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

2

Lunch service ends at 2:30 PM, so plan accordingly.

3

The lunch plate offers 3 pieces for $18 or 5 pieces for $26.

10
Tokyo Central Gardena image 1
Japanese grocery store

Japanese grocery store offers wide selection of authentic products and a mini food court with sushi conveyor belt. Environment feels like stepping into Japan, with clean, organized layout and outdoor dining area. Atmosphere is friendly but can overwhelm newcomers with its variety.

Great selection of authentic Japanese groceries includes fresh produce, bento, sushi, and prepared foods. The food court offers delicious, authentic meals like sushi and unagi rice with fresh ingredients.

Fresh sashimi and quality meats stand out alongside a solid selection of sushi rolls. The food court offers tasty takoyaki with big, chewy octopus pieces and a variety of ramen options.

People are saying

"This grocery store has a great selection of Japanese food and ready-to-eat options."

"I found the fresh sushi and bento boxes to be delicious."

"You can find so many authentic Japanese groceries and snacks here."

Good to know

1

Discounts on selected food items are available after 6pm.

2

Sushi is 20% off after 7pm.

3

EBT is accepted for purchases.

11
Azuma Japanese Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small dining space creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere with a lively, noisy energy when full. Friendly, casual vibe reflects traditional Japanese style, making meals feel like home-cooked comfort food experiences. Cramped seating and close tables emphasize an authentic, old-school setting.

Authentic Japanese meals feature home-cooked flavors and traditional tastes. The food reflects genuine cuisine often found in Japan.

Offers authentic Japanese cuisine with dishes like beef teriyaki, tempura, and fresh sashimi. Bento boxes include a mix of chicken cutlet, miso soup, and omelette over fried rice with crab and shrimp.

People are saying

"I found the sashimi here to be a delicious hidden gem."

"The Japanese food, especially the teriyaki and tempura, is perfectly made."

"The food and flavor here are so authentic, it reminds me of home."

Good to know

1

Parking options include a lot in the back and street parking.

2

Expect a line starting at 5 PM when they open.

3

Arrive early to secure a table, especially during busy hours.

12
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.

The yakitori offers authentic Japanese pub flavors with a nostalgic taste. The marbled Kobe Wagyu beef stands out for its silky smooth texture and high quality.

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."

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

"I loved the authentic yakitori and Japanese BBQ flavors."

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.

13
Shin-Sen-Gumi Hakata Ramen - Gardena image 1

Small, cozy ramen joint with authentic Japanese atmosphere and Japanese-speaking staff creates a lively, casual vibe. The space feels busy and a bit noisy, filled with fans of top-tier ramen. Limited seating and no reservations mean waiting is common, but the consistent quality draws a steady crowd.

Ramen here captures authentic Japanese tonkotsu style with fresh, delicious broth. The environment feels like Japan, supported by Japanese-speaking staff and a genuine atmosphere.

Tonkotsu ramen stands out with its rich, creamy broth and firm noodles. The menu features Hakata ramen, a longtime staple known for consistent quality and authentic flavors.

People are saying

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

"This Japanese food, especially the ramen, is the best I've ever had."

"I found the ramen to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect to wait during peak hours.

2

Free self-parking is available in the lot next to the restaurant.

3

You can queue online through Yelp to minimize wait times.

14
Teriyaki Hawaii image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Small mom-and-pop Hawaiian restaurant with a family-run atmosphere and authentic traditional flavors. Air carries the aroma of spiced wings, and food is prepared fresh to order, leading to a long wait time. Portions are generous and prices remain very affordable.

Flavors stay true to authentic Hawaiian cuisine with dishes that capture the island's traditional taste. The menu offers a solid range of classic Hawaiian dishes prepared with care.

Generous portions of teriyaki chicken stand out alongside classic old school Japanese and Hawaiian dishes like saimen and spam musubi. This no-frills spot serves hearty, flavorful meals with a long history of over 40 years.

People are saying

"These chicken wings are so fresh and crispy, you can't resist them."

"The teriyaki chicken here is so tasty and full of flavor."

"The Japanese food, especially the teriyaki chicken, is well made and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of about 30 minutes during peak hours.

2

Food is prepared fresh upon ordering, which may take 20 minutes or more.

3

Portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

15
Waka Sakura Gardena image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi arrives on a high-speed conveyor belt after ordering via touchscreen tablets at each booth. The space feels sleek and modern with a relaxed, upscale vibe that encourages taking time to enjoy the meal. It offers a quieter, more controlled experience than typical revolving sushi spots.

Sushi here tastes fresh and authentic, matching traditional Japanese flavors closely. The atmosphere feels modern yet maintains an authentic vibe throughout.

Sushi features smokey seared nigiri and a Wagyu sushi trio that stands out. Salmon tastes authentic, similar to sushi in Japan, and the conveyor belt service adds a fun touch.

People are saying

"I considered their sushi the best I experienced in the states."

"I found the sushi here to be the best I've had in the states."

"The tuna here is so fresh, especially the fatty toro."

Good to know

1

Expect a long wait if arriving after 5pm; join the Yelp Waitlist to save time.

2

The restaurant is located on the second floor of Tokyo Central, accessible by stairs or elevator.

3

Parking is easy and available near the entrance of Tokyo Central.

16
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.

Food focuses on cuts of chicken and vegetables grilled in the traditional yakitori style. Atmosphere and flavors match what you'd find in Japan, delivering a truly authentic 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 Japanese food tastes just like Japan, with perfectly grilled skewers."

"I found the yakitori here to be very authentic, tasting just like Japan."

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.

17
Fukagawa image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with dark wood and lanterns creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Japanese decorations and a wall of foliage with neon lights add authentic charm. Music plays upbeat but can be loud, and outdoor dining welcomes dogs.

Dishes deliver authentic Japanese flavors beyond typical sushi spots. Lunch sets with salmon and katsu offer comforting, traditional tastes at a good price.

Katsu dishes stand out with authentic taste, including pork katsudon and chicken curry katsu cutlet served with rice, cabbage, miso, and curry. The menu also features classic ramen, udon, and tempura soba, plus cold soba and California rolls, all at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful with the dinner spots."

"The Japanese food's katsu has a crispy crust and juicy meat."

"I found the katsu here to be truly authentic Japanese food."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Thursday, 5 pm to 9 pm, with great deals.

2

Parking is easy as the restaurant shares a large lot with other businesses.

3

Cash is needed for some transactions, especially with street vendors nearby.

18
Asa Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Tiny hole-in-the-wall ramen spot with an intricate kitchen and authentic broth. Casual, inviting vibe with a friendly atmosphere and late-night hours. Offers unique ramen options and simple, fresh dishes.

Broth and ramen deliver a truly authentic Japanese flavor. It serves as a solid late-night fix with very good traditional dishes.

Broth stands out as truly authentic with options like kotteri ramen and shio ramen offering fresh, generous portions. The menu includes unique ramen choices and late-night hours keep it open for comfort food cravings.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the ramen, is exceptionally fresh."

"I found the food here to be really, really good."

"The broth here is truly authentic."

Good to know

1

Asa Ramen is open until 1:30am, making it a late-night option.

2

Basic ramen starts at $9, offering affordable options.

3

Expect slower service during peak hours.

19
Tokyo Central & Main image 1
Japanese grocery store

Japanese grocery store offers wide variety of authentic products including fresh seafood, snacks, and kitchen items. Food court features small restaurants and quick stops like Beard Papa's and ramen shops with ample seating. Atmosphere feels cozy and chill, suitable even as a casual date spot.

Wide variety of authentic Japanese products fills the shelves, including many cuts of meat, vegetables, and ingredients. The store offers a solid selection of genuine items from Japan for cooking and grocery needs.

A wide variety of prepared sushi and sashimi stands out, including fresh salmon for sashimi from the fish department. The market also offers onigiri, takoyaki, ramen, and Japanese snacks like Beard Papa cream puffs, all ready to eat with an eating area inside.

People are saying

"I found this grocery store has a great selection of Japanese items."

"I found a huge selection of Japanese food, snacks, and treats here."

"I found so many authentic Japanese products here."

Good to know

1

The store has a wide selection of Japanese food products and food stands.

2

Parking is easy even on weekends, making access convenient.

3

The food court offers a pick what you like dining experience.

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