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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Sawtelle's best

Authentic Japanese food

Made for those who seek out Japanese cuisine that prioritizes traditional preparation and authentic flavors.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
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Updated May 2026
01
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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.

Teriyaki sauce stands out as a key highlight, especially on the chicken and steak bowls. Wings, spring rolls, and steak barbecue over rice also feature as notable dishes with strong flavors.

People are saying

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

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

"I thought their teriyaki sauce was the best I have ever had."

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.

02
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Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers a simple, clean atmosphere with an understated, casual vibe. Focus centers on authentic, traditional sushi without western-style rolls or heavy sauces. The place features top-quality fish and unique options like abalone and small oysters, attracting those seeking genuine sushi experiences.

Sushi here matches the authentic style found in Japan. The food delivers superb quality and stays true to traditional flavors.

Sushi here matches the style found in Japan with classic nigiri and no California rolls or heavy sauces. The omakase and sashimi offer authentic flavors with exceptional quality and good value.

People are saying

"I thought the sushi here was very authentic and the fish was exceptional."

"The Japanese food, especially the omakase, was worth the price."

"The fish here is incredibly fresh and melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are preferred for dinner service.

2

The omakase includes 2 appetizers and 8 pieces of sushi, costing about $80 per person.

3

Lunch specials offer great value compared to dinner prices.

03
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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.

Charcoal grilled chicken adds a smoky aroma and rich umami to the ramen. The broth is rich and flavorful, complementing the flame-kissed chicken and thick scallions for a unique taste.

People are saying

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

"The ramen here is super flavorful with perfectly chewy noodles."

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

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.

04
Yabu image 1
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.

Sushi and sashimi come with fresh, expertly sliced fish and beautiful presentation. Handmade soba and udon noodles have a delightful texture and rich broth, while tempura is freshly cooked with care.

People are saying

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

"The Japanese food here is so fresh, especially the sushi and sashimi."

"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.

05
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Large dining room offers a cozy atmosphere with Japanese music setting a peaceful mood. Classic dinner-style seating includes booths and a small outdoor area. Menu features authentic Japanese diner classics with standout dishes like hamburg steak and pork katsu.

Authentic Japanese diner classics include hamburg steak and pork katsu that are juicy and tender. Miso soup tastes genuine, paired with a small salad featuring a signature orange sauce.

Udon and tempura dishes come out super hot and crispy. The oyster katsu is perfectly portioned and the hamburg steak shines with teriyaki sauce.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the katsu, is so delicious and perfectly portioned."

"The corn soup starter was a great sign for the meal."

"The authentic hamburg steak is juicy, tender, and sells out fast."

Good to know

1

Parking is free with a $10 purchase at Sawtelle Place Plaza.

2

One hour of complimentary parking is available in the underground lot.

3

Reservations can be made by calling ahead.

06
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Japanese restaurant

Small, retro-style Japanese restaurant with teal and white decor and a cozy, homey atmosphere. Offers budget-friendly, quality food with dishes like beef udon and katsu curry standing out. Seating is limited, and the kitchen is run by a friendly owner, creating a welcoming vibe.

Food features authentic Japanese flavors made with fresh ingredients. Quick service suits those seeking a fast, genuine meal.

Offers crispy tonkatsu, juicy teriyaki chicken, and well-prepared sushi and squid dishes. Katsu curry stands out with a rich flavor, and chicken teriyaki comes perfectly grilled with a balanced sauce.

People are saying

"This Japanese food is so delicious and budget-friendly."

"This teriyaki is so delicious and reasonably priced."

"I loved the authentic Japanese food, it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is challenging, but spots can be found when others leave.

2

The combo plate is under $14, including tip, with sides included.

3

Takeout may reduce food freshness; dining in is recommended.

07
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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.

Yakitori stands out with authentic flavors and just enough salt seasoning. Grilled onigiri, Soboro Don rice, and black cod offer nicely grilled options alongside an intimate setting with table and counter seating.

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."

"I thought this was the best Japanese food, my new local yakitori place."

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.

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.

Sushi here is super fresh with generous portions and includes unique options like the Takashi’s roll. The sushi chefs are incredible and kind, creating a welcoming vibe alongside a solid happy hour selection.

People are saying

"I experienced the best sushi in LA here."

"The sushi here is phenomenal; I've never had better."

"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
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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.

Ramen stands out with rich, authentic flavors and a variety of options including tsukemen and vegan bowls. The noodles are consistently fresh and the broth deeply satisfying.

People are saying

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

"The Japanese Food's dipping broth is rich and deeply umami."

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

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
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Japanese restaurant

Dark, moody interior with a retro Tokyo urban feel creates a cozy yet intense atmosphere. Regulars enjoy Japanese-style chicken dishes and grilled rice balls in a traditional izakaya setting. Free parking and a tucked-away location add convenience in a busy neighborhood.

Food offers authentic Japanese flavors similar to those in Wakayama and Kyoto. Drinks and dishes provide a comforting, genuine experience, though some yakitori items feel less authentic.

Pork curry katsu and udon soup stand out for their rich flavors. Grilled meats like yakitori skewers and a tender rib eye with ponzu sauce also feature prominently.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the imported sake and beer with my meal."

"I loved the Japanese food, especially the spicy fried chicken wings."

"I found the food to be great and authentic."

Good to know

1

The parking in the back lot is free.

2

There was no waiting, and I could walk in and sit down immediately.

3

They offered many options to choose from on the menu.

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Sawtelle, Los Angeles

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