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Local picks in Central LA

Japanese food date spots

A Japanese restaurant that sets a mood for a date without feeling like a loud, high-turnover dining hall.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mutsu image 1
Mutsu image 2
Mutsu image 3
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Temaki restaurant

Stone-carved sushi bar with backlit onyx counter creates a warm, intimate atmosphere. Chefs prepare food in front of diners, adding to the engaging experience. Early 2000s hip hop music plays, blending modern vibes with Japanese-inspired design.

Sea bream sashimi stands out with its world class quality. The Chirashi Bowl offers a perfectly balanced, flavorful experience. Grilled edamame comes perfectly charred and delicately seasoned. Sushi melts in your mouth, and miso soup ranks among the best ever tried.

Super intimate atmosphere sets the tone for date nights here. The vibe feels just right for couples looking for a cozy, relaxed evening.

People are saying

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

"The Japanese food here is excellent, with Oscar's craft making it a joy."

"The food here is so fresh, it's perfect for date spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must to dine at Mutsu.

2

Seating is limited, so arrive early.

3

Almost half of the menu was unavailable when I was seated.

02
Iki Nori image 1
Japanese restaurant

Tiny sushi bar with about a dozen seats creates an intimate dining experience focused on excellent sushi and unique handrolls. Dim lighting and loud atmosphere make it lively yet low key, attracting those who appreciate authentic, sleek design and craft cocktails.

Hand rolls feature crispy, melt-in-your-mouth nori with no gumminess. The omakase offers a variety of nigiri and hand roll combos at under $100. Ponzu ice cream serves as a unique dessert option.

Chefs offer complimentary pieces, adding a thoughtful touch. It suits a quick date night with a relaxed vibe.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food here, especially the nigiri and hand rolls, is exceptional."

"The fish here is so fresh, it's fantastic."

"The sushi here is the best I've ever had; it melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Iki Nori does not accept reservations and seating is very limited.

2

Parking in the building is available for 1 hour free with validation.

3

Expect to join a waiting list during peak hours.

03
Haru Sushi & Izakaya image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Izakaya restaurant offers a cozy, trendy vibe with warm wooden decor and lively music. The space feels intimate and inviting, often quiet at the sushi bar for a personal experience. It stays open late, attracting a crowd that appreciates quality sushi and a relaxed atmosphere.

Sushi here features extremely high quality fish with amazing flavor and presentation. The chef's mysterious box sashimi offers a fresh, daily selection that stands out.

Late-night visits offer a quiet sushi experience after 10pm. Dinner feels like a special treat for a Friday night date.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese food here to be the best I ever had."

"The happy hour menu here is delicious and a great deal."

"The sushi here is some of the best I've had, especially the scallop with spicy sauce."

Good to know

1

Valet parking costs $3 cash only for 90 minutes with validation.

2

The restaurant offers a late night happy hour from 11 p.m. to closing.

3

Happy hour includes a 'buy 1, get 1' beer and sake promotion.

04
Otomisan Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with 1950s red patent leather booths and traditional Japanese decor creates a cozy, historic vibe. Atmosphere feels like a local Shokudo, warm and inviting with a backdrop of Japanese television. Regulars include salarymen and students, reflecting a homely, timeless energy.

Tempura stands out with its light, crisp texture fried in fresh, sweet vegetable oil. Sushi features perfectly seasoned rice and large chunks of fish, with spicy tuna and salmon rolls offering a smooth texture and rich flavor. Udon dishes like tempura and beef udon come with flavorful broths, and the salmon teriyaki bowl has well-cooked salmon and rice.

Couples can find counter seating quickly, even when arriving late, with parking spots right outside. The beef udon soup stands out as a solid dish choice for dates.

People are saying

"The tempura here is world-class with fresh vegetables and shrimp."

"This cozy spot serves comforting Japanese food."

"The food here is amazing, especially the teriyaki sauce."

Good to know

1

Otomisan Restaurant does not accept reservations.

2

Expect a wait due to limited seating; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The restaurant closes at 2 pm and reopens for dinner at 4:30 pm.

05
Tokyo Cube image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant blends cozy, welcoming vibe with loud Western hip-hop and throwback hits creating a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Decor mixes Japanese and Western elements with a charming patio featuring string lights. Sushi stands out for its freshness and high quality, complemented by unique menu items and cold draft Sapporo.

Sushi here stands out for its freshness and high quality. Rolls and sashimi deliver amazing flavor, and the tempura ramen adds a tasty touch.

Frequent visits mark this spot as a go-to for couples. It supports quick plans with call-ahead orders and suits special occasions like birthday celebrations.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and incredibly fresh."

"The Japanese food here is delicious; I loved every dish."

"The food here is amazing for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5 to 7pm with discounted drinks.

2

There are only four parking spots directly in front, which can fill up quickly.

3

Most orders can be placed via phone for convenience.

06
Susuru Ramen Bar image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small, intimate space with cozy mom-and-pop atmosphere and anime dรฉcor creates a friendly, vibrant vibe. The place feels like a hole-in-the-wall spot with authentic Japanese ramen and izakaya-style dishes. Seating is limited, making it best for quick, casual meals rather than groups.

Broth, noodles, and chashu stand out with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Affordable ramen options include spicy tonkotsu with balanced spice and dishes like katsu Donburi and spicy salmon roll.

Quiet atmosphere suits a date night or quick dinner. The setting feels intimate and relaxed for couples.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is bursting with flavor."

"The Japanese food here has the most incredible, flavorful broth."

"The ramen here is rich, creamy, and has a good kick."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited in the area, so arrive early.

2

There arenโ€™t many seats available, expect a wait during peak hours.

3

Reservations are not accepted, so plan accordingly.

07
Sushi Enya Beverly Hills image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small space with intimate seating and jazz music creates a calm, elegant atmosphere ideal for relaxed dinners or dates. Skilled chefs focus on authentic sushi flavors, offering a creative, high-quality omakase experience. Sake selection is guided by knowledgeable staff, enhancing the overall dining.

Freshness stands out with top-quality seafood and incredible sushi and sashimi. The omakase offers great variety and value, guided by attentive chefs who help select dishes.

Offers a cozy atmosphere suited for a weekday date night or a small group like a trio. Works well for impressing someone in a relaxed setting.

People are saying

"The sushi here is incredibly fresh and beautifully prepared."

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is incredibly fresh and beautifully prepared."

"The sushi here is so fresh, you'll want to savor every bite."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended well in advance, especially on holiday weekends.

2

Happy hour runs until 6:30 pm, offering great deals on drinks and appetizers.

3

Parking is available right out front, but can be limited during peak times.

08
TONCHIN LA image 1
Ramen restaurant

Modern ramen shop combines stylish decor with traditional Japanese elements and offers live music alongside handmade noodles and a curated sake list. Atmosphere balances relaxed comfort with upscale energy, featuring terrace, bar, and table seating. Crowd enjoys a mix of ramen, cocktails, and Japanese nibbles in a space that feels like a modern izakaya.

Ramen here features house-made noodles with classic flavors that stand out. Options include a smoked dashi ramen with a strong, unique taste and a vegan ramen for a healthier choice.

Early dinners work well here with solid ramen that even non-ramen fans enjoy. Exclusive seating options add a special touch for dates, and the spot suits casual meetups and business gatherings.

People are saying

"The ramen broth was rich, pork-forward, and simply amazing."

"The ramen here is rich, bold, and pretty close to perfect."

"The ramen here is amazing, just like in Japan."

Good to know

1

Jazz Night occurs every Wednesday at 8pm with no cover charge.

2

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially on busy nights.

3

Street parking is available, but it can be challenging to find a spot.

09
Ocean Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Neon decor and spacious seating create a stylish, intimate setting with a relaxed vibe. Soft music keeps the atmosphere easy for conversation despite occasional crowd noise. Robots roam the space, adding a unique touch to the dining experience.

Sushi here features fresh sashimi and nigiri with flavorful, creative rolls like the Grinch roll. The salmon and sushi rice stand out for their taste, paired with friendly service in a cozy setting.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and tasty."

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

"The sushi here is fresh, delicious, and has an awesome mix of flavors."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm-6pm and 8pm-9pm with discounted rolls and drinks.

2

Parking is available in the Crescent Heights Plaza Parking area, including underground options.

3

Most rolls and appetizers are on the happy hour menu at discounted prices.

10
Sushi Palace image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Sleek, minimalist decor creates an intimate and modern setting with well-balanced lighting. Trendy music sets a relaxed, inviting vibe that suits date nights and special celebrations. Signature cocktails feature playful presentations, adding a memorable touch to the experience.

Sushi here features fresh, delicious sushi with standout items like Wagyu beef and yellowtail sushi. Service is attentive, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Warm and inviting ambiance creates a cozy setting. Modern and nice vibe suits a relaxed sushi date or evening out.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

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

"The sushi here is fresh and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

The lunch special is $32 and includes multiple courses.

3

Happy hour runs from 5-8 PM with discounted drinks and appetizers.

11
Laki RAMEN image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, stylish Japanese restaurant with a modern, clean interior and a cozy, homey atmosphere that feels authentic to Japan. Bright, thoughtfully designed space includes a pet-friendly outdoor patio. Known for high-quality, inventive ramen that stands out in Los Angeles.

Ramen here features a rich broth and authentic Japanese recipes crafted by a Japanese chef. The scallop ramen stands out as a unique and excellent dish alongside solid pork gyoza.

Ramen dishes create a cozy atmosphere for date nights. The menu offers variety to explore together.

People are saying

"I thought the ramen was awesome and very tasty."

"The Japanese food, especially the ramen, has a really tasty and rich broth."

"It's an amazing place for a ramen date."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu features hearty options and runs from 4-6pm daily.

2

Parking is available in a small lot; street parking is also an option nearby.

3

The lunch special offers a good deal for those looking to save.

12
Kirin Sushi and Ramen image 1
Japanese restaurant

Ceiling covered with cherry blossoms and Japanese figurines creates a magical, cozy vibe. Music plays softly, enhancing the pleasant, lively atmosphere. Spacious booths invite relaxed dining with a focus on authentic Japanese experience.

Ramen features authentic tonkotsu flavor and a tasty beef bulgolgi option that is not too spicy. Sushi and sashimi come fresh with a large selection and the rolls in the bento stand out as fabulous.

Suitable for dates and casual meals, the spot offers a relaxed vibe for couples. Sushi portions can be generous, sometimes leaving leftovers.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and beautifully prepared."

"The Japanese food's ramen broth is rich, deep, and phenomenal."

"The ramen here has a rich, savory broth and tender pork."

Good to know

1

There is a paid parking lot across the restaurant.

2

Most main dishes are priced around $20, making it reasonably affordable.

3

They offer good happy hour prices.

13
Pokeworks image 1
Poke bar

Bright, clean space with spacious indoor and patio seating offers a quiet, chill atmosphere blending Hollywood glam with Hawaiian comfort. Guests enjoy a coffee bar and casual games while waiting. The vibe stays relaxed and welcoming throughout the day.

Fresh and delicious poke bowls come with generous portions and a variety of options. Sushi burritos and bowls like the Yuzu Ponzu Salmon add authentic Japanese flavors.

Fresh, customizable poke bowls create a relaxed and tasty setting for couples. The spot suits food lovers looking for a casual, flavorful meal together.

People are saying

"The poke here is so fresh and flavorful."

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

"The Date Spots here are so fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

There was parking right next door.

2

I found Pokeworks to be very clean.

3

There was plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.

14
ZORI Restaraunt & Bar image 1

Large bar and beautiful fireplace create a trendy, intimate vibe with live music and performances adding energy. Warm, inviting atmosphere suits romantic evenings and friendly gatherings alike. Interior blends 5-star luxury with a casual, fun spirit.

Sushi features fresh fish that melts in your mouth and is artfully crafted. The Philadelphia roll stands out with perfect flavors and fresh ingredients, paired well with innovative cocktails.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great."

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

"The food here is a creative explosion of flavors."

Good to know

1

Drinks are half off on Mondays, not just during happy hour.

2

The restaurant hosts a DJ and dance events on weekends.

3

Valet parking is available for $14.

15
Starfish Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small, intimate sushi restaurant offers cozy atmosphere with quaint indoor and patio seating. Energy stays calm and quiet, suitable for date nights or family outings. Sushi features consistently fresh fish and flavorful rolls.

Freshness stands out with consistently fresh sushi and sashimi. The bento box offers a notable variety and quality, all at an underrated price.

Atmosphere suits date night or family outings well. Service can be inconsistent, like missing orders such as miso soup on busy nights.

People are saying

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

"The chicken yakisoba noodles were flavorful and comforting."

"The sushi here is really good and fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers affordable prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

Lunch deals include a bento box under $15 with sushi and chicken.

3

Free parking is available in the back during weekdays.

16
The Night We Met image 1

Thai-inspired Asian parlour showcases luxurious decor with glowing lanterns and birdcages overhead. Dim lighting and live jazz music create a romantic, intimate vibe suited for couples. The space blends modern luxury with a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Spicy salmon sashimi comes with a flavorful sauce and works well as an appetizer. Crispy tuna rice and garlic noodles offer bold flavors, while tempura green beans serve as a light starter.

Softened music and ambient noise create a space where couples can easily hear each other. The vibe suits a sexy date night with fun, kind, and ready-for-fun couples.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are delicious and flavorful."

"The Japanese food here feels like an enchanting escape under glowing lanterns."

"The ambiance here is a dimly lit, romantic hideaway with lanterns."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner service.

2

Parking is available in the structure behind the restaurant with validation.

3

Valet parking is offered for convenience.

17
Samurai Ramen Teri & Roll image 1

Small family-owned Asian restaurant offers a quiet, cozy atmosphere with chalkboard decor adding character. The place draws a casual family crowd and stays busy in the afternoons without feeling crowded. Known for flavorful ramen and fresh sushi, it provides generous portions at reasonable prices.

Ramen features charred, tender pork belly and a creamy, spicy broth. Sushi includes fresh California rolls and offers good portions like the chicken and beef teriyaki bowls.

Pairs of ramen like white ramen and black spicy ramen come with sides such as calamari. Lunch offers a quick, satisfying spot for couples craving soup and Japanese flavors.

People are saying

"The ramen here is ridiculously delicious and amazing."

"The ramen here is ridiculously amazing."

"The ramen here is so flavorful and satisfying, it's a great date spot."

Good to know

1

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

2

Expect a wait time of about 15-30 minutes during peak hours.

3

Prices are affordable compared to other ramen places in the area.

18
SAMATA VEGAN HOUSE ๐ŸŒฑ image 1

Small space with cozy, intimate atmosphere and quiet setting despite nearby busy area. Decor is beautiful and inviting, creating a romantic, homey vibe ideal for relaxed meals. Staff-run operation adds warmth and personal touch to the experience.

Drunken Udon features noodles with fake chicken and a flavorful sauce. Bento Orange Tofu offers a sweet and tangy taste. Tom Yum Udon Soup combines spicy and sour elements in a comforting broth.

Cozy atmosphere creates a nice and intimate setting for dates. Small family-run spot operated by a husband and wife adds a personal touch.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was unbelievably flavorful."

"You've got to try the drunken udon noodles; they're so yummy."

"The service here is fast and very attentive for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is closed on Tuesdays.

2

SAMATA VEGAN HOUSE opens at 1 pm and closes at 10 pm.

3

The interior is small, so plan ahead and call for reservations.

19
Lasung House ๋ผ์„ฑ์™•๋ˆ๊นŒ์Šค image 1

Spacious Korean restaurant with a clean, modern interior and bright, cozy atmosphere. Tables feature ordering tablets, adding a tech-savvy touch to the casual vibe. Music plays loudly, creating an energetic but comfortable environment.

Tonkatsu here is gigantic, crispy, and juicy with a breadcrumb crust that stays crunchy from first bite to last. The sauce leans sweet and sour with a tomato base, matching Korean tastes well.

Seafood cream pasta stands out as a favorite dish. The atmosphere suits both romantic dinners and casual outings with friends.

People are saying

"The pork cutlet here is thick, huge, and fried to perfection."

"The tonkatsu here is fried to perfection and the portions are huge."

"This is a great spot for a date, the food is so delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of 30-40 minutes during busy dinner hours.

2

You must order at least one menu item per person.

3

Parking is available, but can be hectic due to limited space.

20
Kiku Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small sushi restaurant offers a cozy, authentic feel with both indoor and dog-friendly outdoor seating. Atmosphere stays relaxed and inviting, suitable for casual dining. Known for fresh, beautifully prepared sushi and a selection of cold Japanese beers.

Freshness stands out with every bite, especially in the chef's special sashimi platter and the langostino roll. Service stays attentive and friendly, while the menu offers a wide variety including authentic sushi and unique rolls like the ex-boyfriend roll.

Ordering a variety of sushi like California roll, ex-boyfriend roll, and spider roll fits well for a date. Sharing multiple dishes creates a relaxed, casual vibe for couples.

People are saying

"The sushi here is amazing and super fresh."

"The sushi here is surprisingly good and super fresh."

"The spider roll at these Date Spots is the best, so crispy."

Good to know

1

The kitchen stops taking orders 30 minutes before closing at 10:30 pm.

2

Expect a quick turnover; wait times are generally short even when busy.

3

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

21
MainRo image 1
Restaurant

Space features 270 degree monitors and LED screens creating an immersive, high-energy environment with club-like vibes similar to upscale Las Vegas spots. Entertainment includes live shows and DJs that elevate the atmosphere, making it lively and engaging. Seating is comfortable and luxe, though the venue can get extremely loud and crowded after 9 p.m.

Sea bass and oysters stand out alongside sushi and steaks. Portions are generous and the flavors are solid across dishes including shrimp and dessert.

Celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries happen here with a memorable vibe. The setting supports hosting intimate gatherings that guests find enjoyable.

People are saying

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

"The Japanese food here is amazing with outstanding live performances."

"The live entertainment and light displays make this a great spot for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations for tables are mandatory, especially for large groups.

2

Expect to pay $25 or more per drink at MainRo.

3

A 22% gratuity is automatically added to all bills.

22
TAKAGI COFFEE WEST THIRD image 1

Cafe offers a quiet, immersive atmosphere with beautiful Japanese-inspired design featuring warm lighting and wood furniture. It attracts those seeking a cozy, intimate setting with attention to detail in both decor and service. The space includes a patio area that welcomes dogs with water bowls.

Japanese comfort food here tastes close to authentic, especially the Japanese-style katsu. Meals usually include miso soup, rice, fries, and salad, with dishes like ginger pork leaning more toward a teriyaki flavor.

Cozy-chic cafรฉ style sets a relaxed mood under city lights. It works well for dinner dates and casual coffee meetups.

People are saying

"I found the fluffy Japanese pancakes to be very good."

"The Japanese food, especially the fluffy pancakes and katsu, is divine."

"The fluffy pancakes here are a must-try for any date spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect wait times of 1-2 hours during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Parking can be challenging, especially during lunch hours.

23
DTLA AYCE KBBQ image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Open-air setup with patio string lights and fire lamps creates a semi-outdoor dining experience that feels spacious but can be chilly. TVs show sports and K-pop videos, adding to a lively, energetic vibe with loud music. Tables offer a cozy yet spacious setting suitable for intimate dinners or group gatherings.

Beef gyoza stands out as a tasty option. Snacks include fried calamari, rose ddukbokki, miso soup, seafood ramen, steamed egg, and corn cheese. Unique cup ramen fried rice adds a creative twist.

Spontaneous nights out work well here with a lively vibe that fits an energizing date night. The spot suits groups, couples, or even families, making it a versatile choice for a dope date night experience.

People are saying

"The Korean Food here has fantastic, plentiful meat options."

"You have to try the rose ddukbokki and corn cheese at these Date Spots."

"The rose ddukbokki here is so creamy and delicious."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat price is $26.95 per person, with a two-person minimum.

2

They stop serving food at 9:20 PM, despite being open until 10:30 PM.

3

Street parking is available, but be aware of metered spots.

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