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Guide to Old Torrance

Authentic lunch spots

An authentic lunch spot that serves a real meal instead of just another quick, uninspired bite.

Based on 653 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.

Affordable lunch sets make it a solid choice for midday meals. Closing around 4 keeps it focused on lunch, and the spot pairs well with a long stroll nearby.

People are saying

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

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

"This lunch spot has incredible soba, it's healthy and delicious."

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
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.

Freshness stands out with the Tuna Lunch Special priced at USD 46. Seasonal lunches come beautifully presented and include options like soba noodles.

People are saying

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

"The upscale sushi here is fresh, delicate, and flavorful."

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

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.

03
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.

Lunch features really good tempura served fresh early in the day. Meals offer good value for the price.

People are saying

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

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

"This Lunch Spot's tempura is perfectly crispy and mouth-watering."

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.

04
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.

Lunch specials run from 12 to 3 pm and include a ramen bowl with a small side for about $18-$19. Service is quick, making it easy to grab a late lunch or pick up food for a group.

People are saying

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

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

"I thought this was one of my favorite ramen lunch spots."

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.

05
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.

People are saying

"The food here is surprisingly delicious and tasty."

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

"This Lunch Spot's fried chicken is juicy and tender."

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.

06
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.

Lunch offers a variety of options with portions sized to avoid afternoon sleepiness. Prices stay under $20, attracting many local workers and keeping the spot busy during lunch hours.

People are saying

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

"The Unagi Tamago Bowl was a standout dish."

"This lunch spot has really fresh and delicious sushi."

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.

07
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.

Lunch features a sushi omakase option and serves as a solid spot for midday meals. Family-friendly atmosphere appears on Fridays.

People are saying

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

"The sushi here is so fresh and authentic."

"This Lunch Spot has really fresh and tasty sushi."

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.

08
La Capilla Family Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with dark, cave-like bar and 1990s decor offers a loud atmosphere where patrons often talk loudly. Multiple TVs show sporting events, and margaritas receive high praise for their flavor. Free chips and salsa accompany meals, creating a casual dining vibe.

Food offers fantastic small town authentic Mexican flavor that makes you feel like you're really in Mexico. The environment and service match the authentic vibe with prices that reflect genuine value.

Lunch offers large portions with prices between $18 and $20. The atmosphere brings good vibes and laughter, and they provide a free lunch on birthdays.

People are saying

"The chili verde burrito was legit and delicious."

"The food here is so authentic, it feels like you're in Mexico."

"I had a delicious lunch here."

Good to know

1

They offer a free meal on your birthday if you bring your ID.

2

Parking can be tricky during lunch hours, but there's a free parking garage nearby.

3

Lunch combos cost between $18 and $20.

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Old Torrance, Torrance

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