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Central LA's best

Japanese lunch spots

A quick break in the middle of the day deserves a proper Japanese meal.

Based on 764 Opinions
+761
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Updated May 2026
01
MUSUME image 1
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Sushi restaurant

Small sushi restaurant with minimalist Japanese design and a serene atmosphere offers an intimate and modern dining experience. Music enhances the calm vibe while attentive service supports a peaceful setting. Fresh, high-quality sushi and thoughtful menu choices define the culinary experience.

Sushi here stands out with mouth watering nigiri and rice seasoned to balance flavors without soy sauce. Dishes like chicken katsu curry, toro crudo, and blue crab handroll add variety beyond sushi.

Lunch features a fresh green salad and rice topped with white and black sesame seeds, ginger, and wasabi. The lunch special includes a few pieces of nigiri and a hand roll, with a sushi lunch plate also available.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is creative and delicious, especially the uni toast."

"The seafood here is so fresh and of high quality."

"This lunch spot's culinary excellence nourishes the soul."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5 to 7pm with great deals on appetizers.

2

Enjoy agedashi tofu, shishitos, and crispy rice tuna during happy hour.

3

The restaurant offers gluten-free soy sauce and broths.

02
kyucafe image 1

Spacious cafe offers self-service Korean ramen stations and stylish interior seating for a relaxed vibe. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, with a family-friendly energy and plenty of parking. Quick grab-and-go options and healthy, tasty food make it a convenient spot for work or study.

Fresh onigiri rice stands out, especially the smoked salmon onigiri. The ramen bar offers several options, including a premium lobster ramen that tastes rich and satisfying.

Quicker lunch options include grab and go sandwiches and salads. A variety of healthy choices like smoked salmon onigiri and vegetarian snacks are available.

People are saying

"I loved their strawberry matcha lattes; they were amazing."

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

"This lunch spot has delicious turkey sandwiches on fresh bread."

Good to know

1

There is a parking lot in the back of kyucafe, which is easy to access.

2

Most of the onigiri had already sold out by the afternoon.

3

The bathroom at kyucafe is handicap accessible.

03
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.

Offers a quick lunch ideal for busy workdays with a focus on healthy options. Serves as a reliable spot for a fast, nutritious midday break.

People are saying

"The poke here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The seafood here is always so fresh and high quality."

"The Japanese food here is 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.

04
Haji Sushi House image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small sushi spot offers a cozy, minimalistic atmosphere with Afrohouse and Rufus music playing softly. The space includes just a few tables and bar seats, creating an intimate vibe. Sushi is fresh and affordable, with standout dishes like smoked tuna and miso black cod.

Sushi here offers big portions and great fish quality at very reasonable prices. Special rolls stand out more than nigiri or sashimi, and assorted tempura adds a delicious touch.

Small setting offers fast service and a lunch combo with salad, miso soup, avocado and cucumber roll, salmon, and rice. Food is delicious and filling.

People are saying

"I found the sushi here to be delicious and fresh."

"The happy hour options here are insanely large and the price is unbeatable."

"The Japanese food here is delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers many options, most under $10.

2

Free parking is available in the back after 6 pm.

3

Expect a wait during busy hours as there's often only one person serving.

05
CASA LEO image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a refined yet casual setting with cozy ambiance and beautiful lighting that feels like Spain. Atmosphere stays quietly confident and inviting, welcoming guests for lunch or dinner. Neighborhood spot features a seasonal menu with simple, honest dishes and excellent Spanish wine pairings.

Lovely decor and setting create a nice atmosphere for lunch. The lunch menu offers excellent options, including standout gambas.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here have incredible food, especially the creative tapas."

"The food at this lunch spot is excellent, especially the gambas."

"The tomato and watermelon nigiri is one of the best bites."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend brunch.

2

The menu features a variety of seasonal tapas with a veggie-forward focus.

3

Prices are moderate, with many dishes allowing for sampling.

06
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.

Lunch features a bento box that is tasty and reasonably priced. Free parking is available during lunch hours, making it convenient for a late lunch break.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and tasty."

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

"The lunch bento box here is really tasty and a good value."

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.

07
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.

Lunch offers three handrolls for $22, combining great price with outstanding sushi quality. The spot draws attention for its incredible handrolls during midday meals.

People are saying

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

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

"You have to try the hand rolls at this Lunch Spot; they're incredible."

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.

08
Katsu Sando - Los Angeles (Chinatown) image 1

Small Japanese spot offers standing dining with a long window counter and no seating. Atmosphere feels lively on weekends and casual, attracting those who enjoy quick, quality katsu sandwiches. The place stands out for its crispy, juicy pork and shrimp sandwiches with flavorful sauces.

Katsu sandwiches come with honey milk bread, frisee, yuzu-kosho slaw, and katsu sauce, making them crispy, tender, and moist. Options include pork, chicken, shrimp, mushroom, and vegetarian, all served sizable and filling, with curry plates and cheese fries also available.

Offers a quick tasty lunch ideal for casual outings. Fits well for a casual lunch date and exploring the local area.

People are saying

"This katsu sandwich is crispy, delicious, and lived up to the hype."

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

"The Lunch Spot sandwiches are so juicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking can be hard during peak times; consider using paid lots.

2

This place is more of a grab-and-go spot with limited seating.

3

The total cost for two sandwiches, fries, and a drink is around $42.

09
Isshin Ramen & Boba image 1
Ramen restaurant

Cozy, small space with a quiet, peaceful atmosphere and relaxing jazz music playing softly. Casual and family-based vibe suits quick meals, with a calm energy that can shift when large groups arrive. Known for generous portions and balanced, flavorful ramen including vegan and tofu options.

Ramen here stands out with generous portions and customizable options that consistently deliver delicious results. Quick service pairs with kind staff to make it a solid spot for a satisfying Japanese meal.

Quick service and solid flavors make it a reliable spot for lunch. The menu offers efficient options suitable for a midday meal.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be delicious and generously portioned."

"The Japanese food, especially the ramen, is amazing."

"This lunch spot's ramen is delicious and decent."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open late on Thursdays to accommodate hungry crowds.

2

There is parking available at the restaurant.

3

You have to order from a kiosk, which speeds up the process.

10
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.

Lunch offers a lively vibe that suits casual meals and evening outings. The experience leans toward fine dining, which can feel intense for some during midday.

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 rich, comforting, and perfectly balanced."

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.

11
Master HA Korean Restaurant image 1

Brightly lit and modern space combines Korean atmosphere with clean, chic decor. Lively vibe fills the comfortable dining area, enhanced by outdoor seating under a large canopy. Unique features include a handwashing station and gloves for eating crabs, emphasizing a thoughtful dining experience.

Miso soup stands out with its savory, abnormally good flavor. The tempura offers perfectly crispy shrimp, soft shell crab, and onion. Dishes like spicy crab, special uni, salmon sashimi, and Kalbi provide generous portions.

Short waits happen but lunch rush can cause delays. Seating is quick when arriving before peak times.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the marinated crab, is incredibly fresh and flavorful."

"This Lunch Spot's marinated crab is fresh and beautiful."

"The marinated crab, soy or spicy, is the best Japanese Food."

Good to know

1

Most dishes are on the pricier side, so budget accordingly.

2

Parking can get full quickly; consider arriving early.

3

Valet parking is available for $3, but not after 9 PM.

12
Kingbop image 1
Korean restaurant

Small space with spacious indoor seating and a calm, inviting atmosphere featuring Korean street food flavors. The vibe stays low-key and welcoming, attracting those who appreciate authentic, bold Korean cuisine.

Salmon tempura avocado roll stands out among the sushi options. The menu includes various kimbops like egg bomb and bulgogi, plus kimchi fried rice and mayo mala chicken.

Parking inside a small lot makes arriving easy, especially before the lunch crowds show up. Open daily from 11 am to 3 pm, the hours fit well for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The kimbop here is packed with fresh, high-quality ingredients."

"This Lunch Spot's kimbap is so flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is free but limited in the small lot.

2

Expect to pay around $20 per plate, with extra charges for certain items.

3

Takeout is a popular option, especially during busy lunch hours.

13
Suehiro Mini image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, cozy Japanese restaurant with a quiet atmosphere and casual vibe. Known for authentic ramen and sushi, it offers late-night dining and vegan options. The space feels intimate and tucked away, making it a unique spot for comfort food.

Ramen stands out with rich, authentic flavors that match those in Japan. The menu also features miso ramen, katsu curry, yakisoba, and udon, all prepared with care and taste true to Japanese cuisine.

Lunch specials offer a limited menu around $10 with a full meal and miso soup. Weekday deals stand out as great value, served by a wonderful waitress in a small plaza setting.

People are saying

"I thought the ramen here was spectacular, the best I've ever had."

"I highly recommend the ramen; it's the best in town."

"I found good deals for weekday lunch specials."

Good to know

1

There are no public restrooms at Suehiro Mini.

2

Suehiro Mini is open until 1am, providing late-night dining options.

3

Parking at Suehiro Mini can be tricky.

14
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.

Comforting meals come in good lunch portions with a clear chicken broth ramen offering a light option. Lunch specials provide a good deal for midday dining.

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."

"This Lunch Spot has the best tsukemen, it's so good."

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.

15
Thai Deli image 1
Thai restaurant

Small space with intricate Thai artwork and dim lighting creates a cozy atmosphere. The place fills up quickly during peak hours and operates on a cash-only, take-out-only basis. A nearby patio offers a separate sitting area since no seating is available inside.

Chicken and beef teriyaki come with a rich sauce that stands out. Plates and bowls feature deliciously tender meat, including ribs and chicken, making teriyaki a go-to dish here.

Lunch costs less than $13 and the food suits a midday meal. The spot gets very crowded during lunch, so expect a busy atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the Thai food here to be delicious and affordable."

"I thought the teriyaki chicken plates were the best."

"This lunch spot has delicious and affordable food."

Good to know

1

Thai Deli accepts only cash payments.

2

Thai Deli offers take-out only with no dine-in options.

3

Call in your order to avoid long wait times.

16
The Bop image 1
Asian restaurant

Tiny space with small tables and friendly service creates a casual, cozy vibe. Mostly a takeout spot with minimal seating and a clean, homely atmosphere. Music adds to the relaxed energy without overwhelming the quiet pace.

Fresh fish and sushi shine with minimalistic and precise taste. Bowls like chirashi don and dragon don come with thick sashimi portions and a cup of miso soup.

Lunch features Bulgogi as a standout dish. The spot serves as a reliable choice for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The Chirashi here has incredibly fresh, thick-cut sashimi."

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

"The Bulgogi makes for an excellent lunch spot."

Good to know

1

The Bop is primarily a takeout spot, but there are a few tables available for eating in.

2

The food is reasonably priced with large portion sizes.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller orders.

17
Arado Japanese Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Modest interior preserves a 90s sushi place vibe with a Korean feel and homey atmosphere. The restaurant stays busy with long lines during peak hours, reflecting its 30-year family-run legacy. Sushi and sashimi stand out for their freshness and quality, complemented by traditional drinks like sake.

Sushi here is fresh and buttery with high-quality sashimi that stands out. The omakase course offers a satisfying variety including grilled mackerel pike, baked salmon roll, and a chirashi bowl, all served with attentive service and fresh wasabi.

Long lines form during prime lunch hours, showing high demand. Reviews often guide choices for this busy lunch spot.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and buttery."

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

"The food at this Lunch Spot is fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak lunch and dinner hours.

2

Prices for sushi can range from $75-100 per person.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to avoid long waits.

18
Sushi Eyaki image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers fresh sushi with baked rolls that stand out for rich flavor and texture. The atmosphere is cozy and friendly, making it suitable for casual dates and relaxed meals. Happy hour features discounted rolls, attracting a steady crowd despite limited parking options.

Fresh sushi features nice size cuts of fish and big portions in combos. Baked sushi stands out as exceptionally good with consistent quality and reasonable prices.

Lunch specials offer a variety of options with a bento box priced around $15 to $17. Early lunch visits have easy parking, but some meals have issues like soap on the plate and concerns about value.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing and always tastes fresh."

"You'll love their fish, even if you usually dislike it."

"The lunch special here is a great value and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4pm to 8pm with buy one get one half off on rolls.

2

The bento lunch special costs $14.99 plus tax.

3

Street parking is available, but it can be challenging.

19
Lasung House 라성왕돈까스 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.

Lunch comes out within 10 minutes and portions are very large, almost bigger than your face. Meals offer freshness and leftovers at a low price.

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 Lunch Spot has tasty food and really big portions."

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
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.

Lunch draws a busy crowd, especially on weekends. The meals leave a memorable impression with their quality and flavor.

People are saying

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

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

"You have to try the millefeuille pancakes; they're the best I've had."

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.

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