Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Sawtelle

Authentic date spots

Made for those who prioritize genuine experiences when choosing a location for a night out with someone special.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Yabu image 1
Yabu image 2
Yabu image 3
View all
Japanese restaurant

Cozy Japanese restaurant with intimate seating and a charming back patio featuring garden-style cover. Atmosphere stays relaxed and inviting with soft lighting, suitable for family meals. Offers fresh, high-quality sushi and soba, with an open chef's prep area where diners can chat during food preparation.

Flavors come through as very authentic and richly flavorful. The place carries a genuine authentic vibe throughout.

Delicious soba dishes like hot mountain veggie and cold combination platters with sushi and tempura create a tasty setting. The place offers a relaxed atmosphere to chat over food.

People are saying

"I found the soba to have amazing mouthfeel and bite."

"The sushi and sashimi here are incredibly fresh, making it a great Date Spot."

"I found it very authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Yabu offers a 10% discount for paying cash.

2

Limited parking is available, especially during peak hours.

3

The lunch special costs $25 and offers good value.

02
Torisoba Sumiya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Open kitchen with charcoal grill flames creates a cozy, lively atmosphere accented by warm wood and modern decor. Seating is tight but inviting, with a large wooden bar facing the kitchen and about 10 tables. The vibe blends authentic Tokyo style with casual comfort, making it quietly distinctive.

Ramen here has a minimalist menu that highlights its authentic Japanese style. The flavors are distinctive and true to traditional recipes.

Authentic ramen draws couples craving a genuine taste. Spicy chicken ramen and charcoal chicken offer bold flavors that stand out for a shared meal.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food here has a uniquely smoky, charred chicken."

"I found the ramen here to be the most authentic and distinctive."

"The ramen here is authentic and the broth is flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is free with validation in the basement parkade.

2

Expect a five-minute wait before being seated during peak hours.

3

They stop accepting new guests at 9 pm, so arrive early.

03
Nanbankan image 1
Yakitori restaurant

Intimate yakitori restaurant with open kitchen counter seating and traditional Japanese decor creates a cozy, lively atmosphere. Small space fills quickly, offering an upscale yet vibrant dining experience where watching chefs grill skewers adds to the energy.

Authentic Japanese Izakaya vibes come through with traditional Yakitori made from local ingredients. The food stays true to classic flavors and offers a tasty, easy-to-enjoy experience.

Offers an exciting atmosphere ideal for date nights. Serves authentic Japanese food that adds a special touch to the evening.

People are saying

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

"I found the authentic Japanese food really tasty and easy to enjoy."

"The skewers here are a must-try for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must to dine at this popular yakitori restaurant.

2

Expect to wait if you don't have a reservation, especially on weekends.

3

Bring your vaccination card as it's required for entry.

04
Sun Nong Dan Sawtelle 선농단 image 1

Korean restaurant offers large covered patio and bright, clean interior with packed seating that creates a lively, welcoming energy. Atmosphere feels like dining at a Korean friend's home, with a friendly, comfortable vibe despite some noise. The space blends Seoul and K-town styles, making it feel authentic and vibrant.

Seolleongtang here features good quality meat cooked at the right temperature and time. The menu offers authentic Korean comfort food served with heart and true to real Korean cuisine.

Servers like Ken, DK, and Matt provide friendly, attentive service that keeps the experience smooth. Couples often pick their food before sitting, with dishes like Yang Ji Sulung Tang and Won Gi Tang offering satisfying options for dates.

People are saying

"The soup here is rich, flavorful, and soul-satisfying."

"I found the Korean food here to be really good and authentic."

"These authentic Korean Date Spots serve delicious, healthy soups and galbi jjim."

Good to know

1

Sun Nong Dan Sawtelle opens 24/7.

2

Expect a wait on popular evenings.

3

They have a daily promotion from 6:30 am to 10:30 am offering four soups for $11.

05
Bangkok BBQ Bowl image 1

Tiny restaurant with minimalist decor and an open kitchen creates a homely vibe and relaxing ambiance. The space feels airy despite limited seating, offering a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Loud kitchen noises occasionally disrupt the otherwise comforting setting.

Dishes deliver authentic Thai flavors inspired by family recipes. The krapow and other meals taste very genuine and true to traditional cooking.

Couples get special treats like on Valentine's Day. The menu includes teriyaki bowls and a Friday-only Hainanese chicken option. Decor stays tidy but feels casual, not set for a formal date night.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and packed with incredible flavor."

"The owner, Nute, is so warm and friendly."

"The food and drinks here are so yummy, I fell in love."

Good to know

1

On June 20, they are having 50% off bowls for the grand opening.

2

On June 21, they will have a BOGO free bowl promotion.

3

They are currently having their soft opening, which includes a free drink.

06
Tigawok Mini Bowls - Sawtelle image 1

Small space with limited seating creates a busy, lively atmosphere where standing tables dominate. Fast-casual setup includes robot woks delivering authentic Chinese flavors with a cafeteria-style service. Self-serve stations and condiment options add to the practical, no-frills dining experience.

Food tastes very authentic with fresh ingredients and good-sized portions. Presentation includes a well-lit case showing a nice variety of selections.

Warm and inviting atmosphere suits casual lunch or relaxed dinner dates. Tigawok Mini Bowls offer a quick, tasty option for a date night or family time.

People are saying

"The Chinese food, especially the orange peel chicken, is a delicious balance of tart and crunch."

"The food here is so authentic and tastes great."

"The food quality here is outstanding, I loved it."

Good to know

1

Dishes cost around $4 each, making them very affordable.

2

The restaurant offers great portion sizes for the price.

3

There is free parking available in the garage.

07
Odd One Out Tea Sawtelle image 1
Bubble tea store

Small, crowded space with strong herbal aroma and chill vibes. Offers free tea samples and a viewing area to watch drinks being made. Known for unique silk boba and high-quality teas from across Asia.

Tea offers a rich and authentic flavor with unique toppings and a perfect sugar level. Taiwanese boba tea tastes fresh and full of genuine Taiwanese flavors.

Drinks include signature boba tea with square boba and various milk teas like jasmine and oolong. Multiple drinks can be ordered, but satisfaction varies between partners.

People are saying

"I thought the boba tea here was the best I ever had."

"I loved the authentic Taiwanese tea flavors here."

"I loved their signature boba tea and milk teas; you can taste the quality."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $11 upfront, and refunds are not provided even with validation.

2

Expect a short wait time during peak hours due to the shop's popularity.

3

Prices for drinks are around $8 each, with boba costing extra.

08
Sushi Enya Sawtelle image 1
Sushi restaurant

Modern, cozy space with stunning Japanese decor creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Friendly chefs behind the counter add to the traditional vibe without being showy. Sushi presentation is aesthetic and fresh, with large portions and unique rolls that stand out.

Atmosphere feels authentic and captures the essence of Japan well. Omakase offers a variety but leans more toward assorted sushi than traditional styles.

Dinner suits both family and date night settings well. It works for a first date or a fun night with friends.

People are saying

"I experienced the best sushi in LA here."

"The food here is always so fresh and delicious for a date spot."

"I felt like I experienced authentic Japan here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

Happy hour offers discounted sushi plates and drinks before 6:30 pm.

3

Parking is available at The Block plaza with validation from the restaurant.

09
Tsujita LA Artisan Noodles image 1

Outdoor seating expands the space with a cozy, relaxing vibe that contrasts the intimate, buzzing interior. The atmosphere hums with the sound of slurping noodles and chopsticks, reflecting a serious ramen focus. Seating is limited indoors but spacious outside, creating a dynamic energy between the two areas.

Authentic Japanese tsukemen stands out with its rich, signature soup and perfectly crafted noodles. Tonkotsu ramen also delivers a delicious, genuine flavor that captures traditional tastes.

Options include ramen with noodles on the side and a Salmon Rice Bowl for a different taste. Both offer satisfying choices for a shared meal.

People are saying

"The Tsukemen broth is rich, deeply umami, and has a thick, grainy texture."

"I found the authentic tsukemen noodles and broth to be amazing."

"The broth here is velvety, collagen-laced, and brimming with umami."

Good to know

1

During busy hours, especially dinner time from Thursday to Saturday, there can be up to an hour-long wait.

2

On Monday evening, there was no line at Tsujita LA Artisan Noodles.

3

Seating is limited and the restaurant is very popular.

10
Doner Corner image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small space with an open kitchen visible from the dining area creates a direct connection to food preparation. Atmosphere feels cozy and warm, evoking a family vibe reminiscent of Turkey. Complimentary Turkish tea and traditional music add to the authentic experience.

Authentic Turkish-style doner tastes like it comes straight from Turkey. Döner and lahmacun offer fresh, genuine flavors that remind of the real thing overseas.

Complimentary Lahmajun and tea set a welcoming tone for couples. The Iskender and Turkish coffee with knafeh offer authentic flavors that make for a memorable date experience.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Turkish doner and Iskender to be the best I've had."

"They offered complimentary Turkish tea after the meal."

"The Turkish food here is so fresh and delicious, it's amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant offers Halal options for all menu items.

3

Unique operating hours may vary; it's best to call ahead.

11
Bonsai Coffee & Bar image 1

Spacious coffee shop with natural lighting and communal seating creates a social and working environment. Upbeat music and a packed atmosphere make it lively but sometimes loud and stuffy. Laptop-free zones and plenty of outlets support both work and casual visits.

The viet iced coffee uses a slow drip process taking 10-15 minutes, showing authentic preparation. The iced matcha latte balances earthy matcha with perfectly frothed milk, avoiding excess sweetness. The atmosphere reflects genuine care and attention to detail.

Authentic drip coffee takes 10-15 minutes to prepare, showing care in the process. The cafe has a young vibe that adds energy to the date atmosphere.

People are saying

"The matcha latte here is perfectly balanced and smooth."

"The staff's warm, attentive service felt truly authentic."

"The service and drinks here are first class for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a nearby structure and on the street.

2

WiFi is free for 2 hours with purchase; additional time requires another purchase.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and food, making it a popular time to visit.

12
Flame International image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers live music and energetic entertainment that bring the space to life. Indoor and outdoor areas feature modern, elegant design with an inviting garden setting. Atmosphere feels vibrant and romantic, suited for both lively nights and intimate dinners.

Flavors come straight from traditional Persian recipes with authentic spices and tantalizing tastes. Every dish reflects genuine Persian cooking methods and ingredients.

Romantic atmosphere suits couples well. The fresh rainbow trout offers a flavorful option for shared meals.

People are saying

"The food here is great and delicious."

"I loved the authentic Persian food and delicious kabobs."

"The Kashke Bademjan here is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Tickets for events typically cost around $80, including food and soft drinks.

2

Dinner is served buffet style, but expect long lines during peak times.

3

Events can be private, limiting space for general attendees.

Discover more

Sawtelle, Los Angeles

Area guide
Loading Map...