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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Old Torrance

Authentic Japanese food spots

A meal that honors traditional Japanese preparation is the only thing that will do. The focus is on a genuine, authentic experience.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Authentic Japanese restaurant

Authentic Japanese soba restaurant offers a quiet, cozy atmosphere with handmade noodles and ample seating across two rooms. The vibe is low-key and relaxing, attracting mostly Japanese-speaking patrons seeking an authentic dining experience.

Most patrons speak Japanese, creating an authentic atmosphere. The soba and udon noodles taste fresh and true to Japanese tradition, with combo sets that feel filling and genuine.

Handmade soba noodles stand out here, offering a fresh and different experience from store-bought or frozen varieties. The Sukiyaki Udon is thick and flavorful, while the tempura is crispy and lightly sweet, adding variety to the Japanese food options.

People are saying

"I found the soba here to be amazing and incredible."

"I found the Japanese food, especially the soba noodles, to be amazing."

"I found the soba noodles here to be fresh, bouncy, and chewy."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours; arrive early.

2

Parking can be challenging; consider public transport or carpooling.

3

Credit card payments incur a fee; cash is cheaper.

02
Hiroshima Okonomiyaki Torrance/Chinchikurin Torrance image 1

Okonomiyaki restaurant offers a simple setup with a warm, clean atmosphere and a busy, lively vibe especially at night. The menu focuses on authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki with some Americanized flavors and a variety of izakaya dishes. The place attracts mostly Japanese diners and features food cooked on a large griddle visible to diners.

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki here stays close to the authentic preparation with a few Americanized flavor combinations. The dish offers a genuine taste of Hiroshima-yaki that stands out.

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki stands out with its layered ingredients cooked on a griddle, offering a unique and authentic taste. Other dishes like tantan ramen, mentaiko cheese omelet, grilled squid, and takoyaki complement the menu with rich flavors and textures.

People are saying

"I found the okonomiyaki here to be super unique and delicious."

"This Japanese food, especially the okonomiyaki, is prepared right in front of you."

"I was surprised at how authentic the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki was here."

Good to know

1

The place gets busy at night, so consider visiting for lunch to avoid waits.

2

There is plenty of open parking available in the plaza.

3

They offer a wide variety of izakaya dishes alongside okonomiyaki.

03
Ise-Shima Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Elegant dining room features intricate wooden construction and traditional Japanese vibes. Atmosphere stays calm and comfortable with a relaxed, upscale energy. Guests find attentive service and a setting suited for quality Japanese cuisine experiences.

Food reflects authentic Japanese culture with amazing quality and traditional preparation. The experience feels genuine on several levels, capturing true Japanese essence.

Sushi here is incredibly fresh, perfectly prepared, and beautifully presented with excellent nigiri and sashimi. Set menus showcase refined and generous Japanese cuisine, including a notable chirashi sushi and bento style dishes.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has fresh, flavorful Japanese cuisine."

"I found authentic Japanese cuisine with amazing quality food here."

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

Thereโ€™s plenty of free parking available.

2

Expect a pricey meal as it's a hotel restaurant.

3

Happy hour runs from Thursday to Sunday.

04
Izakaya Hachi image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Traditional Japanese izakaya design creates a cozy and lively atmosphere with soft lighting and wood decor. The place fills quickly and features energetic staff that keep the mood bright and cheerful. Bar seating suits solo diners, and a blackboard displays handwritten dish recommendations.

Offers a very authentic Japanese izakaya experience with genuine food not watered down. Most staff are Japanese, adding to the authentic and welcoming atmosphere.

Fresh sashimi shines with no odor and authentic flavors like in Japan. Grilled meats such as yakitori and steak come tender and flavorful. The menu includes Hot Pot and Tempura, all presented with care and variety.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, especially the fresh sashimi."

"It felt like stepping straight into Japan here."

"The Japanese food here is unforgettable, thanks to Thomas's amazing service."

Good to know

1

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

2

The restaurant fills up quickly, often within the first 30 minutes after opening.

3

Expect to pay around $28 for a bento box, which may be pricey for some.

05
Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers cozy, clean interior with a traditional vibe and quiet atmosphere. It draws a crowd quickly due to its authentic tempura, praised for its light, crisp texture and fresh taste. Staff often speak Japanese, enhancing the local, authentic feel.

Shrimp tempura bowls feature huge prawns bursting with ocean flavor. Zaru soba serves as a classic authentic side, making the tempura experience feel truly genuine.

Tempura bowls stand out with a perfect blend of crispiness and flavor, capturing authentic Japanese taste. The zaru soba features large prawns bursting with ocean flavor, making it a top choice for Japanese food lovers.

People are saying

"I found the tempura to be delicious and crisp."

"The tempura here is so crispy and delicious, it reminds me of Japan."

"I experienced authentic Japanese tempura, even better than in Asia."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back and on the street.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant has a tip machine that only offers 18%, 20%, and 25% options.

06
Sushi Nozomi Torrance image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi restaurant with semi-traditional Japanese seating and private tatami rooms requiring shoe removal. Atmosphere feels intimate but lacks strong vibe. Known for fresh, high-quality sushi and an amazing sake selection, with some unique menu items and reasonable prices.

Sushi here features very fresh ingredients and stays true to authentic Japanese techniques. The cuisine offers high quality and genuine flavors throughout.

Sushi here features fresh sashimi and authentic omakase with standout fatty tuna and yellowtail that melt in your mouth. Unique dishes like sea urchin cream udon and a filling chirashi bowl add variety beyond typical sushi offerings.

People are saying

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

"The fish here is so fresh and delicious."

"The sushi here is so fresh and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner service, especially on weekends.

2

The last food orders are taken at 8:45pm.

3

A private room is available with a $200 minimum for four people.

07
Hakata Ikkousha Tonkotsu Ramen Torrance image 1

Ramen restaurant offers authentic tonkotsu ramen with options to customize noodle hardness and spice level. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, often busy with lines and wait times, especially on weekends. Small dining space fills quickly, emphasizing the rich, flavorful broth and well-prepared side dishes.

Ramen offers authentic flavor with a delicious and reasonably priced experience at $15. The taste stays true to traditional Japanese tonkotsu style.

Thick, tasty broth defines the ramen here, with options like Mentai Tonkotsu and Black Devil Ramen standing out. The pork-based ramen tastes almost identical to authentic Japanese ramen and comes at a reasonable price.

People are saying

"This Japanese food, especially the tonkotsu ramen, is the best in Southern California."

"I found the tonkotsu ramen here to be delicious and refined."

"I found the ramen to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends; consider using the Yelp waitlist.

2

Lunch specials are available from 12 to 3 pm with a side dish included.

3

The ramen bowl prices range from $15 to $25 depending on toppings.

08
Waraku Japanese Dine&Bar Torrance image 1

Spacious Japanese restaurant with a cozy, traditional interior featuring private rooms and a mix of tables, bar seating, and booths. Atmosphere stays warm and inviting, growing busy during peak hours with many local workers. Known for fresh sashimi and authentic sushi, it offers a vibrant dining experience reminiscent of an izakaya in Japan.

Vibrant spot offers authentic Japanese cuisine with comforting flavors. Prices stay reasonable while delivering a true taste of Japan.

Japanese food here features fresh sashimi and seasoned sushi rice that pairs well with chirashi bowls. The pork katsu set offers perfectly breaded, golden fried pork with a tasty dipping sauce, while the Japanese curry stands out for its rich flavor.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is so fresh and melts in your mouth."

"The Unagi Tamago Bowl was a standout dish."

"The sashimi and kaisendon here are so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy hours.

2

Expect a wait for tables during peak dining times.

3

Some menu items may sell out quickly, so ask before ordering.

09
Mo-Mo-Paradise - Torrance image 1
Sukiyaki and Shabu Shabu restaurant

Spacious dining area with individual hot pots at a large communal table creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Chill lo-fi beats play softly, setting a relaxed vibe. Self-serve vegetable and bubble tea stations add interactive elements to the all-you-can-eat experience.

Offers a genuine Shabu Shabu experience with authentic hot pot flavors. Serves a traditional Shabu dinner that stands out in the area.

All-you-can-eat Japanese shabu shabu lets you pick any ingredients to cook at your table. The sukiyaki broth stands out, especially with an egg used as a traditional dipping sauce. Side dishes like Japanese curry add variety to the meal.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and tasty."

"I loved the all-you-can-eat Japanese shabu shabu with fresh, quality meats."

"I found an authentic Shabu Shabu experience here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant is usually too busy for walk-ups.

2

The dining experience has a strict 90-minute time limit per visit.

3

An 18% service charge is added to all bills, which is not fully passed to servers.

10
GABURI CHICKEN image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating, including a terrace. The vibe stays lively at the bar and authentic throughout, making it suitable for any occasion. It features stylish, clean design and a chill, comforting energy.

Flavors stay true to traditional Japanese cooking with authentic chicken dishes and a chill vibe that feels genuine.

Udon stands out with its amazing texture and flavor. Chicken katsu and mixed chicken plates offer solid options, while the rich chicken ramen broth adds depth. Attention to detail in sides like miso soup and shredded cabbage creates an authentic Japanese izakaya feel.

People are saying

"The food here is surprisingly delicious and tasty."

"You've got to try the matcha tiramisu for dessert."

"The Japanese food here is surprisingly tender, moist, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Make sure you make a reservation before you go.

2

They do not accept cash; credit cards only.

3

Parking can be difficult, so plan accordingly.

11
Torihei Yakitori Robata Dining image 1

Small space with elbow-to-elbow bar seating creates a lively, authentic Izakaya vibe. Atmosphere feels warm and cozy but can be loud and crowded as more guests arrive. Yakitori skewers offer consistent, flavorful char and pair well with a variety of drinks.

Yakitori here offers authentic Japanese flavors with consistently delicious results. The spot feels genuine, often visited by local Japanese, creating a true izakaya atmosphere.

Yakitori here matches the authentic Japanese flavors with a variety of traditional and creative options. The place offers a solid izakaya vibe with good ambience and a selection of drinks to complement the skewers.

People are saying

"The sliced beef salad here is a must-try."

"The yakitori here is just like the ones I'd eat in Japan."

"I experienced authentic yakitori with delicious flavors here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended; expect a wait of up to 1.5 hours without one.

2

An automatic 18% gratuity is added for groups.

3

They charge $1 for water; no free water is provided.

12
Kagura Torrance image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers private wooden booths with a traditional layout and dark wood decor creating a cozy, authentic atmosphere. Seating divides into semi-private areas suitable for families or intimate dining. Sake served in wooden boxes adds a distinctive touch to the experience.

Tonkatsu breading closely matches what you find in Japan, delivering an authentic Japanese taste. The katsu sauce also carries a genuine flavor that stands out.

Crispy, tender tonkatsu stands out with breading that matches authentic Japanese style. Meals come as a set with miso soup, simmered vegetables, and pickled cucumbers, creating a full Japanese dining experience.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the tonkatsu, is so tender and delicious."

"I found the tonkatsu here to be crispy and tender."

"The tonkatsu here is so tender and juicy, just like in Japan."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dining, especially for larger parties.

2

Parking is limited, with a small lot next to the building.

3

Expect to circle for parking as the lot can fill up quickly.

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Old Torrance, Torrance

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