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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Gardena

Authentic soup spots

You seek out soup that is made with traditional methods and respect for the original recipe.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Kotohira Restaurant image 1
Kotohira Restaurant image 2
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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.

Udon soup stands out with rich broth and tender noodles. Options include chashu udon and a beef curry set served with udon. Miso soup also offers a solid choice.

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

People are saying

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

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

"The udon soup here is amazing, some of the best I've ever had."

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.

02
Dulcisfama Ecuadorian Restaurant, bakery and minimart image 1

Spacious setting with harsh commercial lighting and a colorful mural depicting Ecuador's regions creates a warm, welcoming vibe. Atmosphere feels authentic and homely, resembling a small familiar restaurant in Ecuador. Friendly people and a chill energy make it feel like a piece of Ecuador away from home.

Encebollado fish soup stands out with its rich flavor. Shrimp soup and goat stew also appear on the menu, offering variety in hearty options.

Offers authentic Ecuadorian dishes with homemade flavors and traditional ingredients. The Seco de chivo stands out as very flavorful and genuine.

People are saying

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

"The Ecuadorian food here tastes amazing and authentic."

"The encebollado fish soup was awesome."

Good to know

1

On Fridays, they offer Encebollado and Chuleta con Arroz y Menestra with Tropical from noon to midnight.

2

You have to call in advance for them to make the food.

3

The "Bandera de 3" dish allows you to choose 3 different dishes for only $35.

03
Wooga Sullungtang image 1
Korean restaurant

Medium-sized indoor space offers a cozy vibe with K-Pop videos playing at moderate volume. Atmosphere stays relaxing and calm even during busy times, welcoming both small groups and solo diners. Known for authentic Korean soups, it serves as a comforting spot with simple, clean decor.

Soups here offer homey comfort with generous portions. Options include beef short rib soup, ox bone soup with brisket, and Korean chicken soup, all rich and satisfying.

Bone broth soup features plentiful sliced beef and authentic potato starch noodles just like in Korea. The spot serves comforting Korean soups with great hospitality in a clean setting.

People are saying

"I loved the clean, flavorful beef soup here."

"The spicy kalbi jjim is fall-off-the-bone tender and flavorful."

"I found the Korean soups here to be very authentic."

Good to know

1

The Galbijim feeds 4-5 people for about $80.

2

There is plenty of parking available, especially on weekdays.

3

The prices are reasonable, but some dishes like seolleongtang can be pricey at $21.99.

04
Jun Ju Sul Lung Tang image 1
Korean restaurant

Korean restaurant offers authentic home-style cooking with clean, rich broths and abundant banchan. Atmosphere feels inviting and genuine, reflecting traditional Korean dining. Soups and stews provide hearty, flavorful meals without frills.

Soups here offer a clean, rich broth with a genuine home taste. Options like sogogi gukbap and Galbi Tang provide comforting, protein-rich meals with a pure, tasty broth.

Korean food here has an authentic taste that avoids the overly sweet style common in newer spots. The place offers home style cooking with a no frills approach and an authentic Korean ambiance.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is so authentic, it feels like you're in Korea."

"The soup here has such a pure, clean, and comforting broth."

"I found the Korean food here to be truly authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant opens early in the morning for breakfast.

2

Family-style dining is available with a great selection of soups.

3

Expect reasonable prices for generous serving sizes.

05
Baek am Korean Restaurant (백암순대) image 1

Korean restaurant with authentic Korean ambiance and cozy, welcoming vibe feels like dining at an old-school, family-run spot. Bright, clean space plays K-pop music videos in the background. Known for homemade soondae and dishes made from scratch, it prioritizes taste and quality above all else.

Soups here are clean and rich with no strong smell. The beef rib soup and galbitang stand out for their depth and flavor, often paired with barbecued meats for a satisfying meal.

Food features high-quality, fresh ingredients with flavorful, authentic taste. Preparation shows thoughtful execution and delivers genuine Korean flavors.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Korean food here."

"I loved the authentic Korean food; it tasted homemade."

"The seafood pancake was loaded with squid."

Good to know

1

They offer a lunch combo special from 11 am to 2 pm, Monday to Friday.

2

The restaurant has its own parking lot in the plaza with plenty of parking spots.

3

It's advisable to bring your own containers if you expect leftovers to avoid the $1 fee per takeout box.

06
NAM Kitchen image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Spacious Asian fusion restaurant with modern clean interior and artistic cultural decor creates a relaxing vibe. Music and food videos add to the atmosphere, which is family friendly despite some noise from open seating. Free noodle refills and well-spaced tables support a comfortable dining experience.

Soup features a perfectly balanced base with a slight sweetness. It contains no MSG, offering a clean taste, and comes with extra free noodles in each bowl.

Flavors stay true to traditional recipes with authentic Pho and other Vietnamese dishes. Every bite offers comforting, genuine tastes that reflect classic cooking.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here has the most flavorful broth I've ever had."

"The pho soup's broth is rich and comforting."

"The pho broth here is rich, flavorful, and truly authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a small lot just for the area.

2

Expect the restaurant to get packed by 6 PM; arrive early to avoid the dinner rush.

3

The food is served quickly, even during busy hours.

07
Kanpachi sushi and sake image 1
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.

Broth made from shrimp head gives the miso soup a rich, deep flavor. It often includes vegetables and comes alongside dishes like nigiri and chawanmushi.

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.

People are saying

"The omakase here is fantastic and fairly priced."

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

"I found the evening omakase menu to be substantial."

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.

08
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.

Spicy miso soup offers incredible depth and flavor that stands out. The soup comes with specials including a lunch deal with a side and coffee.

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

People are saying

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

"The soup here has an incredible depth and flavor."

"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.

09
진짜루 New Jin Jja Roo image 1
Chinese restaurant

Bright, clean space with a comfortable, homey vibe reflects a family-owned Korean-Chinese restaurant. Large portions of authentic dishes feature handmade noodles and spicy seafood soups rich with fresh ingredients. Generous parking and sanitizer at tables support a relaxed, safe dining experience.

Spicy seafood noodle soup stands out with its bold heat and rich flavors. Black bean noodles and sweet and sour pork also pair well with the seafood soup options here.

Foods show very authentic flavors with traditional jja jjang myun and jjang pong standing out as genuine and delicious.

People are saying

"I found the Jjajangmyun and Jjampong here to be authentic and delicious."

"I found the fried dumplings to be delicious and fresh."

"The spicy seafood noodle soup here is seriously delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers large portions suitable for sharing among four people.

2

Cleanliness is a priority, with sanitizer available at almost every table.

3

There is ample parking available, including underground options.

10
South Bay Jinmi Restaurant image 1

Small, family-run Korean restaurant with a cozy, nostalgic vibe and authentic homemade dishes. Seating is limited to a few tables, creating an intimate atmosphere. Known for generous portions and traditional comfort food like soondae soup and bulgogi stew.

Soondae soup stands out with generous portions and arrives quickly alongside rice and banchan. Other soups like goat stew, gamjatang, and clam noodles also offer solid options.

Cozy, hole-in-the-wall spot run by an older couple serves authentic homemade Korean dishes. The food tastes savory and genuine, capturing true local flavors.

People are saying

"This cozy mom-and-pop spot serves authentic Korean food."

"The food here tastes so authentic and homemade."

"The soondae soup here is delicious and the portions are generous."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has limited seating with only four tables available.

2

Parking is shared with other restaurants and can be limited.

3

The storefront signage is in Korean only, which may confuse some visitors.

11
Pho Hoan Pasteur Gardena image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant offers a modern rustic open kitchen with a clean, spacious dining area that feels cozy and welcoming despite its size. The atmosphere stays chill and pleasant, with music low enough for easy conversation. Friendly staff contribute to a calm vibe, making it a popular spot with consistent quality.

Soups here have a clean broth with less fat and come with soft brisket and good noodles. Adding chili paste enhances the flavor.

Pho comes with a giant bone and generous, fresh toppings. The taste is authentic, closely matching experiences in Vietnam. Broken rice is served but not in the authentic style.

People are saying

"I thought the pho here was the best I've ever had."

"The authentic pho broth is flavorful and naturally sweet."

"The pho soup here is flavorful with perfectly seasoned, delicious broth."

Good to know

1

They are closed on Wednesdays.

2

There is ample parking available outside.

3

People in wheelchairs can access the restaurant.

12
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.

Cream soup has a unique texture like white jello and includes shrimp, edamame, and mushrooms. Warm miso soup with clams offers a yummy flavor and pairs well with dishes.

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

People are saying

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

"The sushi here is so fresh and tastes excellent."

"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.

13
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.

Miso soup comes in a crazy large portion and includes bonito flakes for flavor. It tastes fresh and is served alongside salad in lunch bento boxes.

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

People are saying

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

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

"The miso soup is delicious, made with bonito flakes."

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.

14
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.

Soups here feature a chicken soy sauce base that is both subtle and satisfying. The AKATSUKI Special House Hot Pot and the mentaiko motsunabe stand out for their rich and flavorful profiles.

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

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."

"This hot pot soup is so rich and hearty with lots of meat."

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.

15
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.

Chinese noodles swim in a dashi soup that tastes like kitsune udon. The beef soup saimin offers a rich flavor. Nabiyaki udon soup is also on the menu to try.

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.

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."

"I loved the Chinese noodles in a tasty dashi soup."

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.

16
Tofu Gardena image 1
Korean restaurant

Korean restaurant offers a homey atmosphere with old 70s and 80s music playing softly. Meals come with plentiful fresh banchan that are constantly refilled, creating a generous dining experience. Regulars include Korean senior citizens, highlighting its authentic and traditional vibe.

Beef broth soup stands out with its fresh and sweet flavor, never overly seasoned. Tofu soup arrives made to order, featuring phenomenal freshness and delicious banchan and vegetables.

Authentic Korean food shines here with simple, delicious flavors that feel good inside. The presence of Korean senior citizens adds to the genuine atmosphere, showing the food stays true to tradition.

People are saying

"This is a great spot for a date with its authentic, comforting Korean food."

"The beef broth soup here is fresh and sweet."

"I found the Korean food here to be authentic."

Good to know

1

Lunch costs under $20, including multiple side dishes.

2

Parking is always available, even during lunch rush.

3

Each order comes with plenty of side dishes.

17
Tasty Kitchen image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese restaurant with typical Asian decor and lucky bamboo plants creates a pleasant, homey atmosphere. The space feels clean and simple, welcoming for casual dining. Food focuses on authentic, flavorful dishes with a strong emphasis on beef and traditional recipes.

West Lake Beef Soup stands out with rich flavor, paired well with the wonton soup and seafood soup. Adding noodles to soups costs extra.

Dishes offer authentic Cantonese flavors with a focus on traditional Chinese recipes. The food consistently tastes delicious and true to its roots.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be packed with flavor and delicious."

"The seafood here is fresh and tasty."

"I loved the wor won ton soup here."

Good to know

1

Lunch special is available from 11am to 3pm on weekdays.

2

Prices are generally affordable for a meal.

3

Portions are generous, often enough for leftovers.

18
Little China Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Simple interior with dated decor and greasy environment sets a casual tone. Busy at lunch, it draws a crowd seeking authentic Chinese flavors with some Korean twists. Large portions and affordable prices make it suitable for groups and quick meals.

Hot Noodle soup and spicy seafood soup stand out as favorites. The hot and sour soup suits cold evenings well, and soups come with lunch specials including rice and a spring roll.

Authentic Chinese flavors come through clearly in dishes like jajangmyeon and tangsuyuk, matching memories from Korea. The food smells and tastes just like traditional recipes.

People are saying

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

"The seafood broth was rich and heavenly."

"I loved their spicy seafood and noodle soups."

Good to know

1

Expect busy lunch hours on weekends with many customers.

2

The restaurant offers a large lunch menu with reduced pricing for traditional dishes.

3

Portions are large, so be careful not to order too much.

19
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.

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.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"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.

20
La Villa Mexican Food image 1

Small, quaint restaurant with wooden panels and Hispanic decor creates a cozy, rustic atmosphere. Calm energy suits family dining during quiet lunch hours. Space is limited but feels spacious despite size.

Albondigas soup features meatballs but sometimes has just one per bowl. The Chicken Soup offers plenty of chicken and feels filling. Daily specials include a soup or salad with chips, salsa, and bean dip for $9.99.

Dishes have a robust and homemade style flavor. Food stays true to authentic Mexican roots with consistent taste.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious and has never changed."

"I found the food to be authentic and homemade style."

"The albondigas soup was delicious and amazing."

Good to know

1

Daily specials include a $9.99 meal with salad or soup.

2

Parking is available in the rear and on the street.

3

The restaurant does not accept debit or credit cards.

21
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.

Broth stands out with rich miso flavor and careful presentation. The special omakase includes soup alongside sushi and carpaccio, adding variety to the meal.

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

People are saying

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

"The miso soup here has some of the best broth I've had."

"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.

22
Three Spice Thai Kitchen image 1

Small indoor space with intimate seating and a cute outdoor patio creates a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. Dim lighting and mellow music set a chill vibe ideal for quiet dining. The place draws those seeking authentic Thai flavors in a welcoming setting.

Tom yum soup stands out with its bold, spicy flavor. The seafood soup offers a tasty, satisfying option. Shrimp Yum soup also features as a favorite choice.

Food shows authentic flavors and stays consistent in portion size. Some dishes do not match traditional expectations.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and full of flavor."

"I thought the tum yum soup was the best I ever had."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so consider street parking nearby.

2

The menu features a wide variety of authentic Thai dishes.

3

Expect large portion sizes that are great for sharing.

23
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.

Broth lacks the usual pork bone smell and goes down very smoothly. It features a clear, easy-to-drink style typical of Japanese noodle soups.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"This soup isn't what it used to be."

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.

24
Old Time Noodle House image 1

Noodle shop offers cozy, casual atmosphere with a warm, family-friendly vibe and large portions. Locals fill the small space, creating a lively but comfortable setting. Handmade noodles and house-made kimchi add traditional Korean flavors to the menu.

Spicy Beef Noodle Soup and dumpling soup stand out with strong flavors. The spicy seafood chewy noodle soup costs nearly twice as much as other soups.

Bold, authentic flavors define the menu with a wide variety of traditional Korean dishes. Generous portions deliver consistently delicious and satisfying food.

People are saying

"I found the noodle soup delicious with a flavorful broth."

"The food here is authentic, savory, and spicy."

"The Galbi BBQ ribs are perfectly marinated and juicy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is small, so expect a slight wait during dinner hours.

2

They allow customers to purchase banchan to take home.

3

Prices have increased significantly, so check the menu before ordering.

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