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Guide to Central LA

Unique Japanese food

A Japanese spot that offers a truly unique experience rather than just the same standard menu you find everywhere else.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Laki RAMEN image 1
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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 here stands out with higher quality and a distinct taste unlike others in LA. The Matcha Tiramisu offers a unique blend of bitterness, sweet cream, and crunchies. Vegan options bring distinct flavor profiles that add to the unique menu.

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."

"I found the ramen here to be truly unique and delicious."

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.

02
Torisoba Tonsho image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small restaurant with modern, clean decor offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere that feels like eating in Japan. The menu features unique chicken-based ramen with savory, buttery broth and high-quality chicken, setting it apart from typical ramen spots.

Chicken broth ramen stands out with super authentic flavor and a greater depth of chicken taste enhanced by truffle oil. Varieties like the Original and Lemon Butter ramen feature tender chicken and soba noodles in a rich yet light broth that avoids heaviness.

Chicken broth offers a unique flavor unlike typical pork-based ramens. Ramen dishes present unusual looks paired with distinctive tastes that stand out in the scene.

People are saying

"I thought the chicken paitan ramen broth was rich yet light."

"I thought the ramen here was the best Japanese food I've ever had."

"I tried ramen that looked unusual but tasted very unique."

Good to know

1

Torisoba Tonsho does not have a liquor license.

2

There is free parking with validation in the hidden lot behind the building.

3

Street parking can be difficult on Wednesday nights.

03
Mutsu image 1
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.

Even simple dishes like edamame have unique flavors that stand out. Seating across from the chef adds a vibrant atmosphere, while the crisp fennel salad offers a refreshing and balanced taste.

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 has unique, fresh flavors that are far from ordinary."

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.

04
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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.

Drinks offer refreshing and unique flavors perfect for a warm morning. Food includes a variety of distinctive options like ricotta dip, Italian beans, and passionfruit sangria, all crafted with care.

People are saying

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

"You absolutely must try the cheesecake; it's unforgettable."

"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.

05
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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.

Flavors like lychee, coconut, and matcha shine in the Nigori Sake Sampler. The sushi menu features unique rolls like the Crazy Salmon with lemon and a blue crab hand roll with real crab meat.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and tasty."

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

"The sushi rolls here are so unique and packed with flavor."

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.

06
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.

Chefโ€™s table dishes offer unique flavors and meticulous detail. The black cod with miso stands out with a heavenly, unlike-anything-before taste. The atmosphere feels distinctive and well decorated.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

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

"The unique flavors and presentation of each dish were truly delightful."

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.

07
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.

Specialty rolls and small plates offer unique and thoughtful flavors with beautiful presentation. The cocktail menu features extensive and creative drinks with exceptional presentation.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great."

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

"The unique cocktails here have amazing presentation."

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.

08
Yama Sushi Marketplace image 1
Japanese grocery store

Small market with cozy atmosphere and warm vibe feels like a Japanese convenience store. Offers fresh, affordable sushi and sashimi with generous portions. Includes limited seating inside and outdoors for quick dining.

Fresh sushi-grade fish stands out with generous meat portions and affordable prices under $10. Ready-to-eat sushi, sashimi, rolls, and hot items like tempura offer a variety of authentic Japanese flavors.

Fresh sashimi selection stands out with options to order sushi or small sashimi portions. Special Saturday cookies and unique packaged goods add to the distinctive concept.

People are saying

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

"The sashimi here is incredibly fresh and a great value."

"It's like a Japanese convenience store with unique fresh sushi and snacks."

Good to know

1

Most sushi is priced under $10, making it affordable.

2

There is a free shared parking garage with limited spaces available.

3

They require 24-hour advance notice to order sushi platters.

09
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.

Smoked Dashi Ramen stands out with its unique umami flavor and strong fish taste. Edamame comes with a basil-based sauce that adds a fresh twist, while dishes like Ban Ban Chicken offer consistently impressive flavors.

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 smoked dashi ramen has a unique umami flavor."

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.

10
Basbussa image 1
Kosher restaurant

Stylish, modern decor fills the space with bright lighting and a club-style vibe. Loud, lively music from a fantastic DJ energizes the atmosphere, encouraging dancing and celebration. The setting suits rowdy gatherings rather than quiet, intimate dining.

An amazing sushi menu offers delicious sushi with smaller portions than expected. Drinks pair well and complement the sushi nicely.

Food features unique flavors with dishes like Chicken pargit and Kebab plate that are light and not oily. The overall experience combines these tastes with a distinct ambiance.

People are saying

"I found the kosher food here to be amazing and diverse."

"The food here has such unique flavors and spices."

"The sushi and drinks here are excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as Basbussa fills up quickly on weekends.

2

Live DJ performances occur on Thursday and Saturday nights, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

The restaurant has strict policies regarding outside food, including cakes.

11
Roji Bakery image 1

Small bakery with a mom-and-pop feel and Japanese-style breads and pastries offers a unique variety including croissants, quiches, and onigiri. Interior is simple and classic with a cozy seating area and a cute outdoor patio. Pastries sell out quickly, creating a lively, tucked-away neighborhood spot.

Japanese-inspired bakery offers seaweed-wrapped onigiris, chashu and tuna fillings, and a breakfast sandwich with edamame bread.

Croissants have a unique style with a very soft texture that lacks the usual layered crispness. Baked goods overall show a distinct approach that sets them apart from typical French bakeries.

People are saying

"I loved the Japanese-inspired bakery goods, especially the Earl Grey scone."

"Their baked goods have a unique style and amazing flavors."

"I loved the buttery, flaky croissants and variety of sweets."

Good to know

1

There is only street parking available at Roji Bakery.

2

The pastries run out quickly, so go early.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

12
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.

Atmosphere feels high level and stands out from the start. Drinks offer a unique and amazing variety.

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 music and stage shows here are truly unique and captivating."

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.

13
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.

Unique dishes include kimchi fried rice and a ramen fried rice with a distinct cup ramen flavor. Sides like nachos with cotija cheese and savory salsa add to the variety.

People are saying

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

"You'll find unique sides like nachos, tots, and onion rings."

"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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Central LA, Los Angeles

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