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HONDA-YA Tustin

4.0 (3.6k reviews)
Closed 11:00 am - 2:30 pm, 4:30 PM - 12:00 AM (Next day)
Updated 2 weeks ago

HONDA-YA Tustin Photos

Business Info

HONDA-YA TUSTIN ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Casual
Classy
Moderate noise
Good for groups

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Recommended Reviews - HONDA-YA Tustin

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Norma D.

Tried this place while in Tustin. We got on the waitlist which on a Friday night was about 40 minutes. Not sure if they take reservations. The restaurant had ample seating and it was busy. The food came up pretty quickly. They have so many options it's hard to know where to start, since it was my first time. Next time I'll be more prepared. Everything looked amazing and smelt delicious. We had the garlic chili cucumbers. I was disappointed they weren't crunchy and didn't have much flavor. But I did love everything else. We had the Sexy Roll for sushi, mixed tempera, Hoi-Ko-Ro, Breast w/Ohba & Yuzu peppers, thigh with sauce, miso pork belly w/green onions, prime rib skirt, Japanese beef, kabocha & bacon asparagus. The portions are small but filling. The peppers in one of dishes was so hot. The waitress said it's a 50/50 chance it 's beyond hot. We enjoyed everything we had. The table we sat at was pretty small but the waitress pulled empties off the table very quickly. Waitress was great and it looked like everyone inside were pretty regular and having a great time. So definitely a plus. It does get loud inside. Yes, I'll be back. It was delicious. And yes I agree with their FOMO. It's true!!

Victoria G.

A true 10/10. Been here several times and I plan to keep coming back. Food is excellent!! There's a huge menu and I haven't had anything yet that was subpar. It's a great late night place to grab a variety of skewers or sushi. Service is always wonderful. They're so kind and attentive. The interior is also beautifully designed. Loved this place so much my husband bought a t-shirt and wears it at least once a week haha. Only downside is that there's always a line because it's SO popular, but definitely worth the wait. Highly recommend!!!!

Eunice L.

Not just the yakitori--every item on the menu is solid and above average. It really feels like you're experiencing authentic Japanese flavors and atmosphere, just like dining in Japan. The draft beer is also fresh and pairs perfectly with the food. On top of that, the pricing is very reasonable for the quality you get. The only downside is the wait during dinner hours. The system feels a bit inconvenient and confusing, and it seems like the staff managing the waitlist isn't always clear on the order. Updating to a more modern system would definitely make the experience smoother. That said, when it comes to the food, it's absolutely excellent.

Yakitori asparagus, duck, scallop, thigh with sauce
Jennifer L.

Haiku: Honda Ya Grilled yakitori A long-time establishment Get the chicken skin. --- Honda Ya has been a long-time and popular izakaya establishment in the OC area. It's common to see businessmen, college students, and families waiting in line to dine. It's sacrilegious if you don't get what they're known for--yakitori. Yakitori is charcoal-grilled meats or veggies on sticks and usually finished with a brush of a sweet and savory sauce. My top picks for yakitori: Chicken meatball (juicy, savory), Scallop (succulent, tender), Chicken skin (crispy, umami), Chicken thigh w/ sauce (meaty, perfectly glazed). On my recent visit, I ordered the Mixed Sashimi and add-on the set deal to include rice, miso soup, and house salad. The sashimi were thick-cuts of salmon, tuna, yellowtail, and white fish. Although I enjoyed this, I didn't have much room to try more yakitori dishes. Next time, I'll focus on trying more izakaya yakitori dishes like miyazaki beef, Japanese beef, tail, and veggie skewers. This izakaya is bustling with young professionals and college students enjoying shared appetizers and beer. This place is so lively and inviting. Bring your next date or group of friends here, and they'll be impressed! Just come early to avoid the lines and crowds.

Jennifer W.

Loved the skewers! Every bite made me drool. There was something about the way they smoked the meats and vegetables that had a unique taste. I honestly just want to eat skewers the entire time. The sushi on the other hand was not good. Kind of tough to chew. Otherwise has so many menu items that it feels everyone could find something they want to eat. The location has alot of parking and the place has a cool japanese pub vibe. Definitely great for groups or dates.

special roll
Alaric S.

first time visiting this Japanese yakitori place while visiting Southern California. The food here was awesome. It was recommended to us by a friend who went on the trip who used to go there with her family while visiting. The service here was great, the ambience is a sitdown Japanese restaurant with a lot of great delicacies

Chicken Skin Gyoza
Airi G.

We waited about 30 minutes to be seated on a Saturday at 8 pm. We sat a long table that was divided into sections depending on the number of people in your party. We ordered the pork belly and beef tongue skewers which were both pretty good. We also ordered fresh wasabi on the side to pair with it. I also tried the bluefin tuna toro sashimi which was tender and not stringy. My favorite dishes were the yaki udon, since it came on a hot plate and the noodles were al dente, and the chicken skin gyoza, a current special they were offering. I appreciated that the waitress came by often to fill our water and clear our plates.

Paul Y.

This is a very popular skewer spot but all of the food they have here is delicious. I love the noodles they use for their ramen and would highly recommend checking it out. There is almost always a wait though so try and get there early if possible. There's plenty of parking though so you don't have to worry about that.

Rice Porridge
Jessica V.

Took the drive out to Tustin as I've heard many fantastic reviews for Honda-Ya and I was not disappointed! I arrived at 5 PM on a Friday and was able to get a table for two. It truly gives off a Japanese atmosphere, along with a tatami room. The menu is expansive, with skewers, sushi, rice porridge, soups, and dessert. I was surprised at the bill at the end as it was reasonably priced for all the delicious food ordered. Huge shoutout to Isaac who was attentive and friendly. I definitely plan to return if I'm in the area!

Chawanmushi (over cooked!)
Kat N.

This place is popular and busy. They have Yelp wait list you can sign up for when you arrive. Wait was 30 min for party of 2 on a Sat at 530pm. Food and service was fast once seated. Most of the skewers were very good. Chicken heart and beef tongue kinda chewy. Wings don't have much meat Tempura was fried well. Cabbage miso dish was hearty. Salmon skin hand roll was too dry. Needed a sauce or something. Hamachi Kama was hot and fresh. Delicious Worst dish was Chawanmushi. Do not order. It was overcooked so much that the egg was hard and not soft and creamy at all. The fish inside was also overcooked. And there was no flavor at all! Prices are very reasonable.

Tintin B.

They have everything Japanese here and chef can speak Japanese too. Enjoy truly Authentic Japanese cuisine straight from the motherland of Japan right here in Beautiful old town Tustin. Lots of local favorites like the grilled chicken heart and liver and cartilage are well prepared and grilled just right by the expert hands of chef Hugo and master chef watching in the background too. Every order is made fresh to order so please be patient even when there is a huge line out the door on Sunday afternoon at 13:15 pm. Try every thing under $5 menu at the Yakitori bar with their famous drinks too. You definitely will get all your favorites here and more just be patient even. Good food and drinks take time and care especially if they got limited space in this small gourmet restaurant. Come and enjoy real soon. See y'all later and Happy Mother day next weekend.

Ruthy V.

Came back and it got better . The skewers were less salty. It was more smokey which is good . Be prepared to spend when you eat here

Menu as of 02/11/26
Stephanie K.

This was my second visit and wow I have to say, I still haven't tried everything on the menu, but the skewers are absolutely delicious! The service is AMAZING. Everyone is so kind, goes above and beyond, and makes sure you have everything you need right away. The ambiance is beautiful it really makes you feel like you're in Japan, and the vibes are immaculate. I also love that they offer floor seating! I tried their melon cream soda too, and it was so good -- I'd definitely order it again.

Chicken thigh negima

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HONDA-YA Tustin Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - HONDA-YA Tustin

What is the wait for lunch on a Friday?

How long is the usual wait time on a weekday night like Thursday 7pm? Thanks.

Its super busy here, honestly probably an hour

Is there yelp check in?

No, there is a tablet outside the restaurant you will need to check in on, but you can track your place in line through the Yelp app afterwards.

Do they still serve zosui or chazukes?

They still have them the last time I was there, plus it's still showing on their menu

Is the restaurant AYCE?

No it's no AYCE, a la carte menu

Is there someone I can email about a food allergy question?

I would suggest reaching out to them on Yelp or calling them so there are no misunderstandings. When there is a food allergy involved it best to go directly to the source itself.

Do you take reservations or waiting list ? If Sat, go there at 4:30pm, any waiting?

They don't take reservations but you put yourself on a waiting list at 4:30. If you get there at 4:25 and be one of the first to put yourself on a wait list, you'll get seated immediately.

Are there gluten free options?

Yes, they have an enormous menu, including many protein-only options like meat skewers or sashimi

Can I join waiting list from yalp?

I don't think so, I don't see the option to do so on the yelp app

Is there still outdoor dining available?

Indoor only, the outdoor tents have been removed.

Do they have the Tatami floor seating as an option?

Yes

Are you currently open since I saw a notice from google said closed from 1/8/2022? Are you now open for business?

Thank you for contacting us. We have been reopening since January 14th. We look forward to your… Read more

Are there gluten free options?

Do you have waitlist where we can rsvp a table?

They use a Yelp wait list on a physical tablet in front of the restaurant. There’s no remote Yelp wait list. I don’t believe they take RSVPs. When you receive a text from the Yelp wait list, they will only seat you if your whole party is present.

How long is the usual wait time on a weekday? Thanks!

we assume 1 hour weekdays and its worth it

Can you make reservations?

No. You have to put your name in, in-person. They now have a tablet where you put your name and number in where you receive a wait time and a text when your table is ready. All persons in your party must be present to be seated.

Their online menu doesn't list YakiTori skewers, do they still have them?

Yes. That's one of Honda Ya's specialities.

Is the Yelp wait-list not operating during covid?

i was there this past weekend. you cannot check in through your phone. you gotta check in at the location and put your phone# down.

Do they use msg in their cooking?

No they don't. It's fresh and the best quality food.

Can I order dinner for carry out?

Yes

View All 42 Questions

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4.4(1.1k reviews)
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Can't believe this was our first time eating at Habuya -- such a hidden gem and totally worth the…read morewait! We joined the Yelp waitlist about 30 minutes after opening and waited around an hour to be seated. Since it was prime-time Saturday dinner and the restaurant is tiny, the wait made sense. Pro tip: come 30 minutes before opening or join the waitlist early if you can! White Corn with Truffle Salt -- 5/5 A must-order. I wasn't expecting much, but it was absolutely perfect and so good with drinks. Pork Cutlet Curry -- 4/5 Classic katsu curry flavor, but the breading was a little on the harder and darker side. Maybe just a bad batch, but still really good. Bluefin & Salmon Sashimi -- 5/5 Order it with the pickled wasabi. It melts in your mouth -- SO good. Purple Sweet Potato Fries -- 4/5 A great appetizer and perfect for snacking with drinks. Beef Sukiyaki -- 5/5 Served with a soft-boiled egg, tofu, mushrooms, and kimchi. I usually don't love sweet beef with kimchi, but this was perfectly seasoned. The BEST. Saving the best for last -- the owner and her team are the sweetest ladies. They work fast, check in often, and you can really tell they care about their customers becoming regulars. Best izakaya in OC! Thank you, Habuya, for a wonderful dinner.

Authentic, super delicious izakaya food!! Totally worth the wait. Wife and I had a great time. We…read morestuffed our faces. Service was great. Quirky music. Small space. Will absolutely come back! Our absolute favorite dishes were the Atkin Mackerel and Shrimp Curry. Highly recommend them. The only dish that was mid was the Chicken Karaage - we'll skip this dish next time.

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Okidoki by Meiji

Okidoki by Meiji

4.0(1.2k reviews)
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Spicy Beef Udon here is the best I have tasted. You cannot go wrong with anything on their menu…read more Handmade noodles, authentic seasoning, bursting with flavor. There will always be a long wait and for good reason. A must try if you are in the area.

if you know me you know that meiji is my favorite udon spot in oc. a bit ago they opened a sister…read morerestaurant in tustin so i finally got to check it out! it had a lot of the same items as meiji seimen but with more. it was still delicious but i will say i still prefer the costa mesa spot more, personally! parking gets pretty busy but it's free! Shrimp Tempura for this price you get 5 pieces of tempura accompanied with the tempura dipping sauce. the tempura is perfectly crisp and flakey while staying soft inside! Tuna Roll simple, fresh and clean, this 6 piece roll was not too filling but acted as a nice add on to our appetizer. Spicy Beef Udon served in a boiling hot pot, this udon is spicy, hot and sizzling. the standard level of spice is free but to make it spicier there is an additional fee. the flavors of this udon were delicious and i liked the greens that came in it. there wasn't much beef inside and due to the sizzling pot my noodles got really soft faster than i could eat them. it also comes with a cheesy rice ball on the side that you're supposed to mix into your soup once you've finished the noodles. i personally didn't love it. i felt like it didn't really match the flavor of the soup and the outer crust of the ball was way too hard and crunchy for my liking, but my boyfriend thought it tasted good together so to each their own. Cold Spicy Egg and Tororo Tsukemen if you're a fan of the cold, dip ramen (tsukemen), then this dish is for you! the cold noodles are served perfectly chewy and al dente and it pairs well with the egg and tororo dip. the boy added a side of meat for an additional charge because it isn't served with any on its own!

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Found my new favorite sushi spot in Costa Mesa. We did the $100 Mother's Day omakase and I was…read moreblown away by the value. Every course was delicious and the fish quality was top-tier. Beyond the freshness, I loved the creative touches--they clearly put a lot of thought into the garnishes and sauces. The service was attentive, and the restaurant has a great energy. For $100, this felt like a steal compared to other high-end omakase spots in OC. Everything was flavorful, fresh, and beautifully presented.

Great place to go with friends if you want to try some unique dishes, but just be prepared--it is…read moredefinitely on the pricey side. Some of the fish is genuinely high-quality and worth the tag, but the cost across the board is what keeps it from being a perfect 5/5 for me. Pro Tip: They do validate parking, which is a huge plus! Beef Tantan Nabe -- 5/5 This was my favorite thing here! It's creamy, delicious, and I've never actually had this dish at any other Japanese restaurant. A must-order. Miyabi Tai Carpaccio -- 5/5 So yummy. It has a great combination of flavors and the fish was buttery, it literally melted in my mouth. Toro Roll -- 5/5 Super tasty. They put real gold on it, which felt so extra, but it was actually a great-tasting roll. Blue Crab Hot Pot -- 4/5 This was really good, and I especially loved the char on the rice. Maguro Kajime -- 3.5/5 This was just okay. It wasn't bad, but it felt a little expensive for what it was--taste-wise, it was just whatever. Final Thoughts: Overall, all of the dishes were solid, but you're definitely paying for the experience.

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Izakaya Takasei

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4.0(1.2k reviews)
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I just moved to the area and wanted to check this place out. What a great decision that was! This…read moreplace is legit! The menu is huge and prices are very affordable. They give you the option to sit at a booth or sit on the ground like they do in Japan. I'll definitely be coming back. Mistibi!

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TANAKAYA - Matcha Soba

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4.0(868 reviews)
0.1 mi
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Super good! Got the lunch karaage soba combo and my boyfriend got the soba sampler. Decent…read moreportions. Service is a tad slow. One thing to note is that the karaage comes on top of a small salad with dressing? It should come in a separate plate bc after I had the karaage I was left with warm salad. Great place otherwise though ! Would come back

I've been meaning to try Tanakaya after seeing their soba flight on Tik Tok! I came near opening…read moreand got seated right away, and by the end, it was pretty full, so I can see how waitlists might be long during busy hours. Plenty of parking and staff is attentive! Everything is a bit expensive for what it is, but overall taste wise, everything was amazing regardless! We got the assorted tempura, filet katsu don, and cold soba flight sampler. The assorted tempura was good, they had a lot of variety and I enjoyed the mushroom, asparagus, and potato! The shrimp tempura portion is very generous in size and was good. A little overpriced for what it is, but if you love this assortment of fried tempura, it is overall good to try! The filet katsu don was amazing, and I like that it came with a small bowl of miso soup! It's always nice to have that as a complimentary side dish. The katsu was crispy and complimented well by the sauce! I'd highly recommend this dish! And now for the star of the show... the soba flight! This was so fun to go through and I highly recommend it just for the experience! My personal favorite was the one that included enoki mushroom on the topping. Definitely would recommend trying Tanakaya if you haven't already! I'd definitely come back.

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HONDA-YA Tustin - sushi - Updated May 2026

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