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Top picks in Gardena

Date Spots

A date is about the food first, and the setting should support that priority. You want a place where the menu is the main event and the atmosphere follows suit.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
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Korean restaurant

Korean restaurant with spacious interior and upbeat K-pop music creates a chill atmosphere that suits casual drinks and snacks. The place draws a crowd that enjoys authentic Korean flavors and lively socializing, often getting a bit loud as people have a good time.

Authentic Korean street food arrives hot and plentiful with flavorful, well-prepared dishes. Staff stay attentive and serve food quickly, making it a popular spot for those who appreciate good Korean food.

Good vibes create a relaxed atmosphere for a casual drink date. The spot works well for late night snacks and drinks with a partner, offering a low-key setting.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"The Korean food here is amazing, especially the spicy pork bulgogi."

"The food here is delicious, perfect for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

The restaurant is known for its late-night hours, staying open until 2am.

3

Pressing the button at your table signals for service, a common practice.

02
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.

Offers amazing Asian food with a focus on Vietnamese cuisine. Food and service consistently stand out as outstanding.

Warm, inviting atmosphere suits chill date nights and larger groups. Cozy setting helps keep the mood relaxed and comfortable.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"The food here is delicious and thoughtfully made."

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.

03
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 stands out with amazing, hot, and fresh food served quickly at the perfect temperature. The dishes consistently taste delicious and satisfying.

Small ramen shop offers a cozy setting that works well for couples. Both casual and intimate, it suits a relaxed date with comfort food and a friendly vibe.

People are saying

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

"The ramen here has amazing, flavorful broth perfect for date spots."

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

Good to know

1

Thereโ€™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.

04
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.

Food features fresh ingredients and an open kitchen that shows the cooking process. Dishes like oden and dashimaki tamago stand out with a higher level of quality than the price suggests.

Offers a cozy atmosphere suited for a date night. The setting encourages relaxed conversation and a pleasant evening together.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the hand rolls; they're works of art."

"The food here is exceptional, I savored every bite."

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.

05
Borjstar Shawarma Shop image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers casual bright seating and a friendly, inviting atmosphere with soft lighting and tasteful decor. The space feels spacious and clean, creating a comfortable environment suitable for lively gatherings. Free self-serve ice cream adds a unique touch to the experience.

Food stands out for its amazing flavor and delicious quality. Service complements the great taste well.

Chicken Shawarma wraps and plates offer a flavorful meal for two. The owner or manager provides free soda water and engages in friendly conversation, adding a personal touch.

People are saying

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

"I found the shawarma here to be the best I've ever had."

"The shawarma here is authentic and flavorful, truly delicious."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available in the lot for customers.

2

This spot is Halal, catering to those looking for halal options.

3

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and quality of food.

06
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.

Authentic Ecuadorian dishes deliver rich flavors that transport you straight to Ecuador. The food combines homemade recipes with delicious beverages for a full experience.

Encebollado and llapingacho stand out as shared favorites, appealing to diverse tastes. Celebrations include singing "Happy Birthday" and offering cake, adding a personal touch to the experience.

People are saying

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

"The ceviche here tastes like a little piece of Ecuador."

"The encebollado here is the best I've ever tasted."

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.

07
Thai Hot Pot image 1
Thai restaurant

Spacious indoor dining area offers a bright, clean atmosphere with a welcoming vibe. A sauce bar and wide selection of fresh ingredients invite customization, while by-pound pricing and authentic Thai broths define the experience.

Food features fresh ingredients and amazing broth with flavorful, high-quality dishes that feel exciting and affordable.

Generous portions make it easy to share a meal without overspending. The menu features Thai soup options that suit a casual date setting.

People are saying

"The soup base here is incredible and the ingredients are so fresh."

"I thought the food here was great and tasty."

"The tom kha soup here is so creamy and delicious."

Good to know

1

The price is about $18 per pound for ingredients.

2

Parking is easy and there are no long lines.

3

You can customize your hot pot with a selection of five broth bases.

08
Dirt Dog - Gardena image 1

Large space with colorful murals of West Coast rappers sets a vibrant tone. Loud hip hop music creates an energetic, nostalgic vibe. Hot dogs come with a customizable hot sauce bar, offering unique flavors in a chill, inviting atmosphere.

Food here is consistently delicious and yummy with a quality that never disappoints. Prices lean toward the higher side but match the excellent taste and satisfaction.

Casual dates feature unique hot dogs like the Patty Dog and limited edition Green Dog. Sharing Asada fries adds a tasty touch to the experience.

People are saying

"The American Food, especially the hot dogs, is delicious and loaded with toppings."

"The food here is delicious and the hot dogs are loaded with toppings."

"You have to try the hot dogs and fries here for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available, but specific times are not mentioned.

2

Parking is free for customers.

3

A signature hot dog costs $10, and a large stack of fries is $7.

09
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.

Food shows clear love and care from the owners, creating a sense of warmth. Dishes come at reasonable prices and consistently taste delicious.

Couples enjoy the vermicelli and pho dishes here. The spot offers a relaxed setting for dinner and conversation.

People are saying

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

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

"The pho here is delicious and savory, perfect for a date spot."

Good to know

1

They are closed on Wednesdays.

2

There is ample parking available outside.

3

People in wheelchairs can access the restaurant.

10
Torachan Japanese BBQ image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese BBQ restaurant offers authentic vibe with a clean, smoke-free interior and comfortable atmosphere. Families benefit from a kids club and free snacks, creating a welcoming environment. The menu features high-quality Wagyu and unique dishes like oxtail soup and wagyu sushi.

Food stands out for its amazing quality and great service. The Wagyu option is pricey but generous enough for two.

Dinner here starts with a pleasant welcome and quick seating. The house-made kimchi adds a special touch, and the excellent Japanese service makes guests feel valued.

People are saying

"The Wagyu here is delicious and melts in your mouth."

"The food here is amazing, especially the Wagyu."

"The Date Spots here have phenomenal meats, like ribeye and short ribs."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour features 99-cent beer and house wine every weeknight.

2

The restaurant is family-friendly with a kids club available.

3

Parking can be challenging during peak hours, especially around 7 PM.

11
Chon Dak image 1
Korean restaurant

Korean restaurant with retro early โ€˜90s pub vibes and a cozy, intimate atmosphere that feels like a neighborhood food stall. Music plays to set a chill, lively mood, and plenty of seating accommodates groups looking to unwind. Self-serve water and tablet ordering add convenience to the experience.

Food features authentic Korean flavors with generous portions and a chill vibe. Dishes consistently deliver delicious and fantastic taste.

Open until 2 a.m. makes it easy to grab a late dinner. The spot works well for a relaxed, casual date with friends or partners.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and the portions are huge."

"The fried chicken is juicy and crispy outside."

"These Date Spots have the best crispy, flavorful wings I've ever had."

Good to know

1

They are open daily from 3:00 PM to 2:00 AM for late-night dining.

2

Chon Dak offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery options.

3

Chon Dak is one of the only karaoke bars in Gardena.

12
Shilla Restaurant image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Spacious interior with stone grill cooking creates an authentic Korean barbecue experience. Energetic and fun vibe fills the room, often buzzing with groups enjoying lively meals. The atmosphere blends old-school charm with a casual, cozy feel, making it suitable for celebrations and gatherings.

Authentic Korean cuisine cooked in sesame oil stands out here. Food quality exceeds typical all-you-can-eat spots, with a delightful taste that appeals to both adults and kids.

Offers a couple's and group menu for one price, making it easy to share. Ideal for a date night for two with a bottle of Stella Rosa. Suitable for dates, gatherings, and parties.

People are saying

"They finished the meal with complimentary kimchi fried rice."

"I considered it the best Korean BBQ I had ever been to."

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high traffic during peak hours.

2

Parking is limited in the enclosed lot; consider arriving early.

3

The restaurant offers a couple's and group menu at a fixed price.

13
Sushi Yoko image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, cozy Japanese restaurant with a fresh, clean atmosphere and quiet bar area. Regulars create a friendly vibe alongside staff, while popular music adds a light energy. Sushi features high-quality fresh seafood with a variety of options.

Food comes out super fast with orders of multiple items for groups. Dishes are consistently fresh and delicious, offering good value for the price.

Friday nights offer a relaxed vibe for couples. The setting suits a quiet date night with intimate seating.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing and so fresh."

"I thought the food was fresh and amazing."

"The sushi here is fresh and delicious for a date spot."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during busy weekend dinner hours.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

Parking is available in the strip mall lot, but it can fill up quickly.

14
Eatalian image 1
Italian restaurant

Warehouse-style space with exposed brick walls and an open kitchen creates a rustic, cozy atmosphere that feels like a family gathering. Wide tables encourage a chill, welcoming vibe without pretension. A central bar and walk-up dessert counter add casual, lively touches to the setting.

Authentic Italian food shines with high quality ingredients and a menu that stays true to tradition. The dishes and desserts come together with excellent flavors and reasonable prices.

Spaghetti Carbonara and Spaghetti Puttanesca stand out with perfect cooking and rich flavors. The spot suits both casual lunches and memorable dates.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be delicious and reminiscent of Italy."

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

"The food here is amazing, especially the pizza."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but ordering and running credit with an open tab is necessary before seating.

2

Parking is limited, and street parking may feel unsafe.

3

Prices are reasonable, with lunch for two costing around $76.

15
Chinese Combo image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small dining area offers a comfortable and inviting atmosphere with clean, shiny interiors. Patrons enjoy TV with sports or news while waiting, creating a relaxed vibe. Known for affordable, flavorful wings and generous portions, it suits quick lunches and casual meals.

Wings stand out as best ever with food cooked hot and fresh. The menu offers many classic Chinese combos with fresh veggies and tender meats, all served quickly and affordably.

Incredibly kind owners create a warm atmosphere. They offer complimentary drinks, adding a thoughtful touch to the experience.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, hot, and delicious."

"This fast food is the best Chinese I've ever had."

"The owners here are so friendly, they even gave us a drink."

Good to know

1

Chinese Combo offers a free drink and egg roll with combo meals.

2

Portions are large and prices are affordable, with meals around $13.

3

Catering services are available for company parties and gatherings.

16
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.

Food comes out fast and fresh, made to order with bold flavors and many tasty ingredients. Portions are large and priced well, delivering consistently delicious meals.

Offers a solid date atmosphere with a relaxed vibe for good chats. Parking can be a challenge but the setting suits couples and friends alike.

People are saying

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

"The food here is amazing, especially the red curry chicken."

"I found the atmosphere really nice and cozy."

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.

17
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.

Spicy Diablo ramen stands out for those who like heat. Food quality stays high and service improves on weekends. Staff help customize dishes and explain ingredients clearly.

Ramen here offers huge portions like the Overload, making it easy to share. The spot feels like a comfort zone with great service, perfect for relaxed dinner dates.

People are saying

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

"I found the food here to be extremely delicious and high quality."

"This is a great spot for ramen date nights."

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.

18
TMJ Cafe & Dough image 1

Cafe offers grab-and-go service with a clean, organized interior and fresh ingredients. It features light, fluffy donuts and generous fillings in baked goods alongside a growing menu of sandwiches and teas. Music adds to a pleasant atmosphere suited for quick, quality breakfast or lunch.

Food here stays consistent and fresh with flavorful dishes. Breakfast options and doughnuts stand out, and smoothies add a good touch.

Frequent visits highlight the appeal for couples. Lemon filled and almond dulce de Leche treats stand out as favorites. The spot draws consistent repeat visits for shared moments.

People are saying

"These donuts are so soft, fresh, and delicious."

"I can't get enough of this place for date spots."

"The donuts here are light and airy or dense and satisfying."

Good to know

1

There is no bathroom for customers at TMJ Cafe & Dough.

2

TMJ Cafe & Dough is conveniently located off the Western Ave. exit from the 405.

3

The cafe offered a large selection of teas and sandwiches.

19
Matthews Home Style Cooking image 1

Restaurant offers home-style cooking with freshly cooked dishes and large portions. Atmosphere stays calm and clean, often quiet even during lunchtime. Menu includes classic soul food with standout items like fried catfish and tender oxtails.

Food features delicious southern comfort with generous servings. Service complements the home style cooking well.

Fried catfish and collard greens stand out as 10/10 dishes here. The spot offers a home-style vibe that suits a relaxed date night.

People are saying

"The food here is seasoned well, hot, and tasty."

"The Mac and Cheese here is authentic home-style cooking."

"The fried catfish and collard greens here are amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers real home-style food that is satisfying and flavorful.

2

They cook everything fresh.

3

The plate sizes are generous, suitable for sharing.

20
Lomeli's Italian Restaurant image 1

Old school Italian restaurant with cozy, classic decor and red booths creates a homey atmosphere reminiscent of 1970s East Coast eateries. The space is small and warm, filled with framed artwork, hanging spices, and plastic vegetables. It draws a steady crowd seeking authentic Italian vibes and well-stuffed pizzas.

Food here is consistently delicious and feels made from scratch. The menu offers great value with a good selection and filling portions.

Dining in offers a cozy setting for a date night with Italian cuisine that suits couples well. The atmosphere supports a relaxed and intimate meal experience.

People are saying

"I found the pizza crust amazing with all the toppings."

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"It's a delightful spot for a date with a nice atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak meal times to avoid long waits.

2

Expect a wait for a table on weeknights after 6 pm.

3

Parking is available in the strip mall lot, with plenty of spaces.

21
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.

Grilled Yakitori features freshness and quality with minimal seasoning to highlight the ingredients. Ramen offers a generous soup and balanced meat portions, all prepared quickly and with high-quality flavors.

Skewers stand out as a go-to dish for a lunch date or casual meal. The spot suits both intimate dates and family outings with its relaxed vibe.

People are saying

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

"The yakitori here is delicious and reasonably priced."

"The yakitori here is delicious, perfect for Date Spots."

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.

22
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.

Authentic Korean soul food comes fresh and sizzling from the kitchen with less salty flavors than expected. The kitchen readily accommodates special requests, and the presence of Korean senior citizens signals genuine recipes.

Seafood dishes like the seafood combo and seafood sundubu stand out here. Dumpling sundubu and barbecue chicken add variety for sharing during a date.

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 and delicious."

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.

23
Kiraku Ramen and Sushi image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small, bright space with tight seating and a cozy atmosphere featuring a sushi bar. Energy shifts from chill and relaxing to chaotic during busy times with loud music. Crowd includes diners picking up orders and enjoying reasonably priced food and drinks.

Food here is consistently delicious and authentic, with dishes like ramen and sushi freshly made. Service complements the food well, creating a friendly and inviting atmosphere.

Sushi and Bento combos with variety of garnishes make for a solid date night meal. Chefs sometimes stare in a way that can feel uncomfortable during the visit.

People are saying

"You have to try the short rib ramen; the meat is huge and tender."

"The food here is really delicious and flavorful."

"The sushi here is amazing, the best part of our Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Parking is in the back, with additional space on the north side.

2

They charge a 10% mandatory tip for dining in.

3

Water is bottled and requires payment.

24
Marie Callender's image 1
Traditional American restaurant

Fresh baked pie scent fills a quaint, rustic space with dark lighting and a smoky atmosphere. Seating includes an upstairs section and private dining for large groups. The setting feels old and in need of updating but maintains a quiet, relaxed vibe on weekends.

Comfort food stands out with home-cooked style and Turkey Dinner as a favorite. Pies get a lot of love, and the food offers great value for the price.

Coffee pairs well with apple pie for a cozy date. Omelets, steak, and veggies offer hearty options for sharing.

People are saying

"I found the pies here to be the most delicious I ever ate."

"This food, especially the turkey dinner, feels like Thanksgiving."

"You have to try the boysenberry pie at this date spot."

Good to know

1

They offer a 2 for 1 deal on Wednesdays; sign up to take advantage.

2

Arrive before 10 am to avoid long wait times and enjoy fresh buffet items.

3

Parking at Marie Callender's can be a bit of a hassle.

25
MAI Coffee & Tea House image 1

Minimalist, upscale design creates a cozy, modern vibe with plenty of spacious seating indoors and outdoors. The atmosphere stays calm and welcoming, making it suitable for studying, socializing, or unwinding. Many power outlets and wifi access support work or relaxation needs.

Food shows clear passion and talent from the owner, with a solid 4 out of 5 rating. The menu offers good food and drinks, best enjoyed earlier in the day for a wider selection of items.

Vietnamese coffee stands out with rich flavors like Brown Sugar Coffee. Unique treats like the pistachio bun and mochi mango and matcha drinks add variety to the experience.

People are saying

"The coffee here is bold, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet."

"The food here uses amazing, high-quality natural ingredients."

"The Vietnamese coffee here is so refined, it blew me away."

Good to know

1

The cafe charges a 2.95% surcharge for credit card payments.

2

Mochi drinks are available starting at 11am.

3

Parking is ample and available in the plaza.

26
Oh My Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small hamburger restaurant offers cozy indoor seating and a pleasant outdoor patio with old school arcade games adding to the vibe. Atmosphere stays chill and friendly with louder music fitting the energetic yet relaxed mood. Limited space and parking shape a casual spot for quick, flavorful meals.

Food arrives fresh with huge portions and crispy textures where expected. Ingredients show 5-star quality and the taste stays consistently delicious despite higher prices.

Turkey tacos and the big homie burger stand out as solid choices for a casual date meal. The menu offers hearty, flavorful options that make it easy to plan a return visit with a partner.

People are saying

"These burgers are massive, seriously flavorful, and cooked to perfection."

"This food, especially the burger, is massive and seriously flavorful."

"The food here is packed with intense flavor, making it a great spot for dates."

Good to know

1

Oh My Burger hosts special events like Burgers and Beats on select weekends.

2

Seating is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Parking is available in a small off-street lot, but it can fill up quickly.

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