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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Gardena

Japanese lunch spots

A midday break calls for a Japanese meal that feels like a proper reset.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mr. H's Lunch Place image 1
Mr. H's Lunch Place image 2
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Korean restaurant

Cozy Korean restaurant with a chill atmosphere and varied music playlist creates a welcoming vibe. It serves large portions of affordable, flavorful dishes popular among college students, especially during the busy lunch rush. The spot offers great value and a diverse menu including poke bowls and bibimbap.

Udon with fish cake soup has a spicy kick and includes cabbage, spinach, and green onion. Sushi comes out fresh and solid, while poke bowls like salmon poke and chicken katsu bowl offer reliable options.

Prices stay reasonable even during the lunch rush. Food tastes good and wait times remain short despite the place getting fairly busy around noon.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's food is delicious and a great value."

"The Japanese food here is delicious and a great value."

"I'd come back often for the shrimp kimbap."

Good to know

1

Expect a busy lunch rush around 12 PM.

2

There is usually no unreasonable wait time during lunch hours.

3

Prices are generally affordable, with good portion sizes.

02
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.

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.

Set menus draw regular crowds for lunch, offering a reliable choice. The atmosphere stays calming and nice during midday, making it a solid spot for a late lunch.

People are saying

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

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

"This Lunch Spot's udon and tempura are so delicious."

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.

03
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.

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.

Lunch features an $18 deal with a side, coffee, and soup. The ramen lunch stands out as very delicious. The lunch set comes recommended.

People are saying

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

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

"This lunch spot has delicious ramen, especially the spicy miso."

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.

04
Akane Chaya image 1
Japanized western restaurant

Japanese Italian cuisine blends with classic Western dishes in a cozy, Showa-era bistro setting. Soft jazz and warm yellow lighting create a relaxing, homey atmosphere with a quiet, mellow vibe. Tables fill steadily, especially on weekends, reflecting steady popularity and a friendly, welcoming energy.

Offers a fusion of Japanese and Italian cuisine with dishes like Wafu style Hamburger steaks, katsu, and pasta. Katsu is decent but tonkatsu tends to be tough and chewy.

Lunch offers a very satisfying experience with minimal wait times during weekdays, usually none or about 10-15 minutes outside peak hours. Saturdays see visits without notable delays.

People are saying

"The cream sauce pasta here is super rich and flavorful."

"Expect a wait at this lunch spot, especially on weekends."

"The Japanese food, especially the hamburger steak, is juicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Early diners before 12:00 PM might receive a free drink with their meal.

2

Expect a wait time of 45 minutes to an hour on Fridays and weekends.

3

During the week, there is usually a 10-15 minute wait if avoiding peak hours.

05
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.

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.

Lunch offers very good value with an amazing menu focused on sushi. The 5-piece lunch set stands out as a solid choice for a weekday meal.

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

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.

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 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.

Quick service handles the packed lunch crowd well. Tables are usually available, but seating fills up fast during lunch rush, so arriving early helps. The ambiance adds to a smooth lunch experience.

People are saying

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

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

"This Lunch Spot's ramen broth is rich, creamy, and full of depth."

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
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.

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.

Lunch offers a great selection of sushi rolls and authentic dishes like unagi rice. Food tastes fresh and works well for a quick meal or to take home as snacks.

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."

"This lunch spot has an awesome variety of prepared foods."

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.

08
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.

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.

Lunch offers affordable set meals like the special bento box with chicken cutlet, rice, salad, miso soup, and an omelette over fried rice with seafood for seventeen dollars. Service stays efficient during busy times, making it good for a quick, satisfying lunch.

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."

"This lunch spot's teriyaki ribeye was so juicy and flavorful."

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.

09
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.

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.

Lunch specials offer great value and include amazing food options. These specials stand out as a must-try for midday meals.

People are saying

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

"This Lunch Spot's ramen broth was life-changing and customizable."

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

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.

10
Rascal's Teriyaki Grill image 1
Japanese restaurant

Large, spacious Japanese restaurant with an old school Hawaiian style and tons of seating creates a laid back, lively atmosphere filled with happy people. Known for fast, well-organized takeout and huge portions, it draws those seeking satisfying meals like the standout Chinese chicken salad and teriyaki dishes.

Teriyaki dishes stand out with delicious sauce and solid flavor. The teriyaki chicken plate and deluxe teriyaki beef are popular choices, often paired with chicken salad or rice.

Meals come in complete portions that satisfy for lunch or dinner. Food serves well for sharing or multiple meals, making it a solid choice for a team lunch or a return visit after time away.

People are saying

"I thought the Chinese chicken salad was superb."

"This lunch spot has delicious, generous portions perfect for sharing."

"I thought their Chinese chicken salad was the best."

Good to know

1

The combo plate costs $10.95 after taxes, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

Expect large portions that are filling, perfect for sharing.

3

There is plenty of parking available for customers.

11
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.

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.

Lunch features a yuzu soba option that stands out. The menu changes between lunch and dinner, offering different choices.

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.

12
Kagura Gardena image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant inside a market offers cafeteria-style seating with a great outdoor patio. Atmosphere shifts after 5pm when all orders switch to takeout packaging, though seating remains available. Known for crispy, juicy tonkatsu paired with fresh sides and quality rice, it stands out among food court options.

Tonkatsu here is crispy and tender with a lean pork cut that avoids fat. The cooking technique delivers a crunchy outside and fresh sides like miso soup and cabbage salad.

Lunch happens smoothly with no rush hour crowds. Staff stay ready and attentive even when it's quiet.

People are saying

"The food at this grocery store is excellent and the rice was really good."

"The Japanese food here is so crispy and tender."

"The tonkatsu here is so soft and tender."

Good to know

1

After 5pm, all orders are automatically packaged for takeout.

2

Seating is limited, especially indoors, so arrive early.

3

Parking is plentiful at the Tokyo Central marketplace.

13
Ladybug Café image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Hawaiian-themed restaurant with thatched wallpaper, surfboard decor, and live weekend music creates a cozy, laid-back vibe. Medium-high noise level supports a lively atmosphere suited for families, reunions, and office lunches. Generous portions and local favorites draw a steady crowd, with ample parking available.

Two-item combos feature flavorful chicken teriyaki and crispy fried chicken. Sushi rolls include a decent-sized California roll and crispy Katsu chicken.

Salmon salad stands out as a delicious lunch option. The spot serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with choices for all. It attracts families, office groups, and older crowds for midday meals.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food portions here are huge and amazing."

"There's plenty of parking available in the back."

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

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served all day at Ladybug Grill.

2

There is plenty of parking available in a large lot behind the restaurant.

3

The portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

14
Gardena Bowl Coffee Shop image 1

Diner inside a bowling alley with billiards and an arcade creates a lively, old-timey atmosphere. The vibe shifts from calm at lunch to loud and energetic as the day progresses. Regulars enjoy a homey island feel with a mix of Japanese, Hawaiian, and American influences.

Rice combo dishes feature chicken and beef teriyaki with a sweet and savory sauce and generous portions. Other options include moco loco with chicken katsu, chashu saimin, and garlic chicken.

Huge menu offers Hawaiian, Japanese, and American dishes all day. Portions like the Hawaiian Royal come large enough for leftovers. Atmosphere stays nice and calming during lunch.

People are saying

"I thought the food was really good and flavorful."

"This lunch spot serves amazing Hawaiian-inspired comfort food."

"The Chicken Katsu Donburi is a comfy Japanese dish."

Good to know

1

Meals cost between $10 to $20, offering good value for the portion sizes.

2

The restaurant can get busy during lunch and dinner, leading to wait times.

3

Parking is available in the bowling alley lot or on the street nearby.

15
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 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.

Lunch offers a reasonably priced set with a menu often preferred over dinner options. Popular skewers sell out quickly, leading to occasional shortages during lunch hours.

People are saying

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

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

"This lunch spot is great for yakitori skewers cooked fresh."

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
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.

Fresh, A grade sushi shines with top quality fish and skilled chefs who engage personally at the bar. The experience includes sake pairings, off menu items, and a well-balanced Matcha mochi ice cream for dessert.

Lunch here features fresh sushi and a casual vibe suited for quick meals with co-workers. The menu offers a straightforward selection ideal for a midday break.

People are saying

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

"I waited outside for my Lunch Spot order, and it was sitting there."

"The seafood here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

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.

17
ICHIBAN BUFFET image 1
Buffet restaurant

Spacious buffet restaurant offers a hibachi grill and a banquet room for large groups. Lighting creates a cozy but somewhat dark atmosphere suited for families. Food variety includes seafood and sushi, with casual, comfortable seating.

Fresh sushi stands out with a good variety and quality, especially when eaten right away. The menu includes seafood like crab legs and stone crab, plus a mix of Japanese and Chinese dishes such as chicken wings, ribs, and stir fry options.

Lunch offers a variety of fresh food at a very affordable price around fifteen dollars per person. The buffet suits a quick lunch and works well for everyday meals.

People are saying

"The buffet had so many different types of food."

"The Lunch Spot offers a great variety of fresh food, including made-to-order stir fry."

"The Japanese food buffet is a great deal with lots of variety."

Good to know

1

The buffet costs $21.39 per person for lunch, including a drink.

2

Dinner buffet is under $25 per person, including drink and dessert.

3

Expect long queues on Saturdays, especially for special occasions.

18
Golden Bowl image 1
Japanese restaurant

Outdoor seating defines the space with a casual, quick-stop vibe. Char-grilled chicken and tender beef teriyaki bowls offer hefty portions and great value with fresh vegetables adding crunch. Drive-thru service provides healthy options for convenience.

Teriyaki chicken and beef bowls stand out with a sweet and savory sauce. Bowls often include avocado, adding a fresh touch to the grilled meat.

People are saying

"The Beef Teriyaki here is amazing, tender and flavorful."

"I loved the healthy options at the Drive Thru."

"The teriyaki beef bowl's tender, flavorful beef is amazing."

Good to know

1

Golden Bowl only has an outdoor eating area.

2

The portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

The cost is about $13 per person, which is reasonable for the quality.

19
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 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.

Quick service delivers affordable sushi with filling portions. Dumpling samples downstairs offer a tasty alternative during lunch.

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."

"You have to try the grilled salmon belly at this Lunch Spot; it's so good."

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.

20
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.

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.

Lunch features authentic Japanese meal sets like salmon with attentive staff and clean tables even during busy hours. Traditional Japanese breakfast is served up to lunch time.

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 had a delicious and satisfying lunch here."

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.

21
Tampopo Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with Japanese traditional decor featuring a latticed ceiling and lamps creates an authentic vibe. Atmosphere is dimly lit and quiet, with background music that some find distracting. Sushi and ramen stand out as high-quality dishes served quickly in a casual setting.

Sushi rolls come out fast and taste great, with the salmon sushi being especially buttery and the Crunch Spicy Tuna Roll offering a decent kick. Ramen has strong flavor, particularly the spicy ramen, and the tempura is highly praised for its quality.

Casual lunch options include takeout and dining during off-peak hours. Staff may mention chef breaks during typical lunch times, affecting service.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi and ramen, is always fresh."

"This lunch spot has a huge menu with delicious, reasonably priced options."

"The seafood here is so fresh and melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

The sushi rolls are 50% off, making it a great deal.

2

Expect a 5-15 minute wait at the Gardena location during busy hours.

3

There is plenty of parking available near the restaurant.

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