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    Izakaya Ringo

    4.9 (44 reviews)
    Closed 4:00 pm - 9:30 PM
    Updated 1 month ago

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    IZAKAYA RINGO ATMOSPHERE

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    Tloliv

    My son is a regular diber at this restaurant so when we recently visited SoCal he brought us here. The staff were very welcoming and the food was delicious! We really loved the crab croquettes! At the end of the meal they blessed us with a complimentary fruit dessert! We will definitely be back when visiting my son. Arigatou gozaimasu!

    Lynn L.

    New restaurant. Food was excellent. We ordered a variety of dishes on their menu. All were really good quality. Will need to come back for other items on the menu. Great service .

    New sashimi
    Noba N.

    Small izakaya that took over kantaro. They serve sushi style tapas and few izakaya menu. I got the appetizer samplers. They are single serving appetizer they recommend for the day. I also got fried lotus with shrimp shinjo, the new sashimi which is sashimi with hot garlic oil on top of it. It was pretty tasty. All in all the food is very tasty One downfall of this place is the location. It has a super small parking and the area around doesn't feel the safest. I went at 6:30 on a Friday night and couldn't find parking and had to park a few blocks away. Ladies, carpool recommended.

    Salmon carpaccio with yuzu.
    Jennifer B.

    I narrowed it down to three different places, but this won out simply because of its name. (I prefer to keep the reason behind that to myself.) But boy, am I glad we came! Party of three for a birthday celebration, we got lucky finding the last open parking spot. No reservations, but no biggie: only one table was occupied, so it was cool having options where to sit. Menu is extensive! There are so many things I wanted to try, but had to pull back because I didn't want to get too full. Mom came along so she played my food buddy and let me order enough to share with her. We placed our orders in and expected some kind of wait since everything is made to order. But the wait wasn't long at all. GRILLED SALMON COLLAR: It's a good size and plenty for three. They didn't do anything fancy with this, just simple seasoning and grilled which made the flavor come through so well. Recommending. GARLIC EDAMAME: Also a good starter. Lots of flavor, edamame was fresh. A great palate cleanser. Also recommending. CHAWANMUSHI: I've had a few steamed eggs from other places and this is definitely top 2 on my list. It's so rich, but not heavy. Tasty and light. It was subtle but packed tons of flavor. A must-have and a repeat order for next time. SOFT SHELL CRABS: Batter was thin but crispy. Seasoning was light (if at all) so the flavor of the crab came through very nicely. I asked for a tempura dip, but decided after having it that it wasn't needed. Yum. BAKED CRAB ROLL: The amount of rice is commensurate with how much crab in it. They're bigger than I expected, so it's quantity plus quality. Subtle flavor but delish. It was quite refreshing. AJI: Mackerels usually come with a strong vinegary flavor, but not this one. 24-KARAT: 6 kinds of carpaccio that I won't bother going through. Just know it was bomb.com! Every dish was different, and they all had their own identity and character - flavor wise. It's enough to share with another, and then some. TEMPURA SOBA: Ordered it with warm broth. Not really a fan, but since it's a birthday celeb, noodles are a must. The mixed tempura, however, was really good. Light batter and good seasoning. Hubbers went for the $75 omakase and had the chefs take reign with it. It came with plenty of food including dessert. He loved it. FOOD: 5. SERVICE: 5. Staff were nice, friendly, engaging and available. VALUE: 5. PARKING: Private lot shared with others. It could be a challenge as there aren't many. Street parking is also available. Be mindful of parking signs. OVERALL: 5. This is truly a hidden gem. Don't let its location or overall appearance be a deterrent - let the service and food speak for it all and then judge. Amazing first run. Looking forward to coming back.

    Masterful Chef Yamashita w/ many years of high cuisine experience
    Gary I.

    I had lost contact with masterful Chef Yamashita during the Pandemic when he disappeared from Kappō Irifunè, another competent local restaurant where he worked his extraordinary culinary magic. His knife skills are legendary possessing a broad compendium of Haute Cuisine Japonaise recipes that boggles the mind. Chef Yamashita has re-emerged as the legendary phoenix in the same restaurant space as former Kantarō. Chef Nakai whom I met years ago at Tamon, Little Tōkyō, DTLA has also re-emerged and rules in the way of Sushi where he now puts an occasional French cuisine twist to Japanese tradition. Japanese & French cuisines are compatible because both are highly subtle, complex, seasonal, fine detailed, w/ codified, formal rules that run parallel to each other. Visiting this temple of ultra fine cuisine did not disappoint in a humble eatery that deceptively has all the fire power of other way more expensive Sushi palaces such as 715 Sushi, Sushi Ginza Onodera, Sushi Kaneyoshi, etc. In comparison, it's a deal here if you're into the finer points of Japanese cuisine. Ask for the special of the day menu to keep au courant with what is recommended since trusting the chefs here is de rigueur. 0) Tsukidashi/Otoshi are Amuse Gueule/complimentary small appetizers: a) Raw, flash fried okra slices w/ slices of squid braised in light, sweet Shōyu/soy sauce. b) Bright green, blanched asparagus dressed w/ meaty Umami flakes of Katsuo Bushi/bonito. Plush, summery Japanese eggplant lightly braised in mostly Katsuo Bushi & Kombu/kelp Dashi/stock. 1) Hiramè/Halibut is aged wrapped in Umami rich Kombu leaf. Meat is dry aged for a firmer feel, and the meatiness is amped. Little dab of Yuzu Koshō is a lively purée of Yuzu citrus zest and green chile pepper, salt. Garnished w/ Shiso leaf & chiffonade of Daikon radish root. 2) Botan Èbi/sweet shrimp also called Ama Èbi stateside seem to be slightly blanched & cured in Kombu leaf. Meat is firmer, bit more earthy, with a touch of sweet sea minerality. 3) Kinmè Dai: Golden Eyed Snapper is the king of the Japanese snappers. Scales are bright orange red softened by a hot water wash but still adds texture and contrast to the soft, sweet, Umami filled velvety meat. Soupçon of green Yuzu Koshō. 4) Terrine de Saumon: A baked mousse of pink salmon that is soft perhaps infused with a bit of mayonnaise. On top is an en gelée of acidic, citrus enriched Ponzu sauce, and creamy Sauce Béchamel w/ a whisper of blue cheese-like fancy moldiness. 5) Hotatè (hoh tah teh): Hokkaidō scallops are suave, sweet, sliced and dressed w/ Red Yuzu Koshō having a sweeter, more fermented, "smokey" aromatic. Accompanying sauce is a ultra purée of funky, soapy green herbal cilantro, olive oil, garlic, perhaps lemon juice that seems reminiscent to Pistou of southern France or Pesto of Italia. 6) Katsura Muki is an expert knife technique that peels the Daikon root into a pliable, thin paper sheet which is pickled in mild Japanese rice vinegar & sweet Mirin, a sweet Sakè (sah keh). Thin sheet of this Daikon is rolled around salted, raw Aji/Spanish Mackerel garnished w/ Shiso &Kaiwarè Daikon leaf. 7) Ika/squid: Pure, translucent, white meat is sculpted into a mass of intricate petals w/ an Umami inducing sea salt to emphasize the delicate squid flavour. 8) Tempura: Mélange of seafood covered in a light, crispy, fried batter: Kinmè Dai, pig ear-like flap fin of squid, Hiramè/flounder. 8) Su no Mono: Refreshing Japanese Rice Vinegar Salad of evenly sliced ultra thin slices of cucumber connected to form a snake like objet d'art. Accompanying red seaweed, Kaiwarè Daikon micro sprouts. 9) Suggested Dessert was two blocks of dulcet Japanese style egg omelet with a touch of yolky richness. 1-7a) Suijin/God of Water Sakè: Clean, sweet, smooth body. Bit of fruity melon, loquat. Touch of bitterness to clear the palate. b) Tamagawa Sakè, Tokubetsu Junmai Heart of Oak suggested by Sakè Sommelier Kerry Tamura of World Sakè Imports. Toasty, nutty, earthy. Fruity faint echoes of blackberry. Enough acidity to again cleanse the palate. Izakaya Ringo also has a pack of regulars who seem to inhabit this palace of Japanese delights. Friendly, amiable, kind, I was warmly welcomed into this amicable bubble sitting at the Sushi bar. We talked about everything & anything, but food was the major point of discussion inspired by inhaling all the great food put out by the chefs. Staff here is hospitable, warm & welcoming. Izakaya Ringo is hard to see along Carson Street. Look out for Plaza Liquors that fronts closest to the street and also a big sign on a tall pole in front of their small parking lot that says: Carson Plaza. A Must Try for anyone who loves sophisticated Sushi, Sashimi, cooked Japanese foods that always hits the mark. Definitely worth the drive as noted by a customer who hails from Pasadena weekly. 5+ stars

    Hope L.

    I order Omakase I highly recommend this place. All sushi is great . Parking is limited.

    Toro, squid, uni
    Sergio C.

    Checked out a cozy sushi spot on a weeknight, and it definitely impressed me. The food was fresh and beautifully prepared but what stood out most was how affordable it was for the quality. I ordered a variety of nigiri and rolls, and every piece was spot-on. The vibe was relaxed and low-key, not very crowded, which made it a great place to actually enjoy the food and conversation without feeling rushed. It's the kind of spot that works both if you're in the mood for a casual dinner or just want a cool hangout with friends over good sushi and drinks.

    Mai N.

    We recently went to a newly opened restaurant with my family. They have a kids' menu, and the food was delicious -- it felt like a casual sushi place. All the staff were really nice, and we'd love to go again.

    Takowasa
    Mary P.

    Izakaya Ringo is a cozy and friendly Japanese Izakaya with excellent food and very affordable prices. My boyfriend and I came here for their grand opening, and we will definitely be coming back. We even said we'd make it a regular date night spot. We got an assortment of food across the menu and every dish was delicious. I highly recommend any of the sushi! The fish was fresh and the cuts were juicy. I specifically loved the amaebi (sweet shrimp). It's cured in kombu so it loves a lovely salty flavor while maintaining the texture and sweetness of the raw shrimp. All of their sets are such a steal and very affordable. We got the 24 karat and got 6 "carpaccio" tastings which basically was an 18 piece dressed up sashimi. If you're not sure what to get, this would be a great option. Lastly I want to call out the pork tongue! I've never had it before but it was so delicious and they torched it in front of me. It was served with cream cheese which I thought was very unique but paired really well. The service also is impeccable. Servers are constantly checking in on you without being pushy and generally all staff was so hospitable. They are so thoughtful too! The bathroom is stocked with q tips and flossers. The bar seating has a perfect footrest which I especially loved since my feet always dangle in space uncomfortably. They were intentional about taking care of their guests and I truly appreciated it.

    Ringo roll

    New Izakaya! Being Japanese, food was definitely to our tastings! Variety of menus including sushi, sashimi, fried food, chawanmushi, etc. Service was excellent and very friendly staffs. Previous Kantaro sushi location. Our new Izakaya to go in South Bay. Too excited when served, forgot to take photos.

    Everything was so fresh and beautifully presented. Each bite of sashimi was perfect. Highly recommend!

    42 Karat
    Sandra J.

    SO GOOD! Everything was scrumptious & service was top tier. I've never had steamed egg and it was bomb! Crispy rice bomb, yellowtail nigiri bomb lol Can't wait to come back and try more things!

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    2 months ago

    Absolutely amazing meal. The staff is so kind and accommodating. We had a late lunch and really enjoyed the Omakase experience. 5 stars!

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    Great choice of sushi and appetizers, friendly service. Prices are very reasonable esp. for the quality of food/service.

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    4 months ago

    Extremely nice owners and delicious food. I'll definitely be back. Their specialty rolls are my favorite. Super creative.

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    6 months ago

    Great service and quality of fish was excellent. Everything was amazing and will be coming back for sure.

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    Izakaya Ringo Reviews in Other Languages

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    Izakaya Hachi - Torrance

    Izakaya Hachi - Torrance

    4.2
    (740 reviews)
    0.5 mi
    $$$

    Izakaya Hachi has cold beer and perfect food to compliment the beer. Came here on a Friday night…read more Got some hot dishes and cold dishes and they all hit pretty hard. Went with a chef's sampler of skewers and got four delicious yakitori skewers. Got delicious chicken wings and chicken karaage that were addictive and the perfect bar food. After eating these dishes, we got a piece of wagyu sashimi (raw) with uni, which was a great bite and we closed our meal with some yuzu snapper carpaccio. Overall, I'm so glad we came here for an after-work meal. It's not cheap, but I was pleased with the portions and the quality of everything we had. We will definitely come back to get some more meat and beer!

    Izakaya Hachi definitely delivers on the lively, bustling energy you expect from a popular local…read morespot, though my first visit came with a mix of standout hits and a few minor misses. The food highlights were easily the gobo chips and the skewers. The gobo chips arrived as an impressive, light-as-air mound dusted with seaweed seasoning... super crisp, savory, and addictively easy to snack on. The pork and wagyu skewers were masterfully executed as well, coming off the grill tender, juicy, and packed with rich, smoky flavor. The toasted eihire (stingray/filefish) was another great traditional touch, perfectly chewy and ideal for dipping in the spiced Japanese mayo my favorite.. On the flip side, a few dishes lacked the depth I was hoping for. The chicken karaage was fried well, but the flavor itself was a bit bland and needed more seasoning or marination and soft. The pressed rice rolls also fell flat, particularly the mentaiko roll.. it felt skimpy on the cod roe, and because the mentaiko seemed cooked through, it missed that fresh, raw texture and punchy brine that makes the dish shine. As for the space, it's quite dark, compact, and packed tightly with tables, which makes it feel a bit cramped when it's busy. However, seeing the dining room constantly full tells me that their best dishes keep people coming back. While there were some inconsistencies in taste, the highlights made it a solid experience, and I'm looking forward to returning to try more of the menu and updating my score!

    Photos
    Seating
    Seating
    Grilled Scallop
    Grilled Scallop
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    Torihei Yakitori Robata Dinning

    Torihei Yakitori Robata Dinning

    4.1
    (937 reviews)
    0.3 mi
    $$

    One of the best things about Sundays is being able to enjoy yakitori for lunch here. It's a bit of…read morea drive from my home, but it's absolutely worth it. With the recent rise in the cost of living, we don't eat out nearly as often as we used to. And after seeing how reasonably priced restaurants are in Japan, I usually prefer to cook at home since I can recreate many dishes myself. But this place is in a league of its own. The chicken liver is simply outstanding--without a doubt the best I've had in the U.S. The service is also exceptional, warm, and attentive. Yes, it's more expensive than eating yakitori in Japan, but it's worth every penny. Since I only get to visit Japan once a year, Torihei is my one and only choice whenever I'm craving authentic yakitori that I simply can't make at home.

    We went here at a Thursday evening for dinner and we were sitting at the bar…read moreMy friend said he has been this restaurant before so he highly recommended it It reminded me so much of the vibe of Japan We ordered so many dishes last night and all the grilled chicken are all good I personally love the grilled ginkgo nuts because it is so delicious and very rarely to see restaurants serving it with shells The service was really good and it is a great place to hang out with friends and families Have a drink paring with the food definitely it the best way to enjoy the food there Somehow, I noticed the little hallway entering the back kitchen and also inside of the lady's room smells bad I am not sure it is the plumbing issue or something but the smell is irritating and unpleasant Other than that, everything is very good Note: the restaurant is located at the plaza with 85 degrees bakery so the parking is plenty and easy to find a space

    Photos
    Torihei's Meatball ( Tsukume)
    Torihei's Meatball ( Tsukume)
    Cucumber Salad
    Cucumber Salad
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    Hasu Japanese Izakaya & Grill

    Hasu Japanese Izakaya & Grill

    4.4
    (196 reviews)
    2.9 mi
    $$

    Ichiban! Food is excellent. For weekends only! This is the…read moreplace to have lunch . They just started this bento lunch Special. We tried the steak and chicken bento. Both were Excellent . There is a side menu for yakitori if you want extras. This bentos come with with a green salad, pickled veggie and miso soup. At the end is a free dessert of vanilla, Macha , or lichee ice cream. Yum that Lichee ice cream is so refreshing with real lichee in it. A must have. Service could be better but there was only one server. The atmosphere was nice and quiet . I would definitely go back there for lunch. Dinner is another different menu. Also looks good.

    I'm genuinely confused by the 4.4/5 rating because my experience was nowhere near that level…read more The one bright star is for the lone server, who did an impressive job managing the entire floor by herself and staying helpful throughout the meal. Unfortunately, the food told a very different story. We ordered a wide variety of yakitori since the glowing reviews repeatedly highlighted it as the restaurant's specialty. Instead, what arrived was surprisingly inconsistent. Nearly every skewer had a heavily charred exterior that crossed the line from smoky to bitter. Good yakitori should showcase careful grilling that enhances the ingredients, not mask them with burnt flavors. The proteins themselves didn't taste particularly fresh, and the seasoning was all over the place. Some skewers were so lightly seasoned they tasted unfinished, while others were aggressively salty. Consistency is one of the fundamentals of good yakitori and it was noticeably lacking here. Having visited plenty of izakayas and eaten more than my fair share of yakitori, I'm not claiming Michelin-level expectations. I simply know the difference between properly grilled, well-balanced skewers and ones that miss the mark. Based on this visit, the food was below average and failed to live up to the hype. With the volume of positive reviews, I expected a memorable yakitori experience. Instead, I left wondering if I had visited the same restaurant everyone else was raving about.

    Photos
    Seating  08-12-2025
    Seating 08-12-2025
    Piece of Salmon  08-12-2025
    Piece of Salmon 08-12-2025
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    Torrance Yokocho

    Torrance Yokocho

    3.7
    (198 reviews)
    3.1 mi

    First, the ambience is very trendy and resembles a Tokyo alleyway. You order your food via screens…read moreon each table. Service is very fast and food is typical Japanese cuisine. The sushi rolls, cucumber salad were great. The regular dinner salad was ok. Ramen and other dishes were good. They have privacy curtains in each booth which adds a nice touch. The overall experience is good but i would have like the wow factor to extend towards the cuisine.

    I Lost a Game of Reflexes, but Won at Dinner Despite living…read morea 5 minute drive away from here since the dawn of time, we somehow missed this absolute gem of an Izakaya (first timers trying it). We walked in right on time for our reservation (because we're adults who respect the space-time continuum) and were ushered into a booth with "privatey" curtains. I'm not saying they'd hide you from the FBI, but they certainly provided enough cover for us to giggle and navigate stupidly through the menu. You can also order directly to a friendly human too. The atmosphere is colorful, lively, unstuffy, and private enough to enjoy good convo but not awko quiet. You order everything via an iPad, which is dangerous because when pictures of gyoza are staring you in the face, your impulse control vanishes. We ordered "a little bit of everything," which is code for "the table was structurally compromised by the weight of our dinner." * The Highlights: The pickled cucumbers (crisp enough to hear in the next county), the pork bowl, and sushi that actually tasted like it came from the ocean. The Fluids: Cold Asahi and Lemon Chu-His. Highly recommended if you enjoy being happy. The Verdict This spot is a unicorn--it works for kids, first dates, or "290th dates" where you both just want to stare at an iPad and eat kimchi in a tent. The Heartbreak They have a "10-Second Hit It" game at the front door where you can win a free meal. We were this close. We didn't win, but we're definitely going back to seek revenge.

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    Torrance Yokocho
    Torrance Yokocho
    Torrance Yokocho

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    Torikizoku

    Torikizoku

    3.9
    (296 reviews)
    2.7 mi
    $$

    Packed restaurant but we were seated immediately at the bar. First time going so our server was…read morehappy to help us select. The coke float was HUGE, enough for two maybe three. Sake was smoooth. Even though it was very busy, the food came out quickly. We ordered almost everything and it was delicious. The grill imparts a great char, especially on the shrimp. Flavors are well balanced and portions are decent sized. Servings are larger than I anticipated as they're larger than other yakitori places. Prices are on point so you can order quite a few things and share. It can get a bit loud with all the people but isn't that what a good yakitori is like? Nice to see a vibrant pippin' establishment.

    We came here when it got a bit viral with all of the Instagram ads and promotions. We kept seeing…read moreit all the time so we decided to visit all the way from LA. Firstly, the parking was super easy - lots of space there. Second, it was still busy when we came and we came at an off-time (after lunch and before dinner). We were seated immediately though. Third, decor was super clean and sleek. Seating around the bar as well as tables around the walls. Fourth, they have a variety of sake. We bought a bottle and it was great. They helped us with the decision. Lastly, food value. This is where my main pain point was at - for the amount we paid and the distance we traveled, it didn't feel like it was worth it. We ordered a variety of skewers for 3 and it was hard to divide between us. The skewers tasted good but didn't stand out unfortunately. I would come back though to try more though!

    Photos
    Inside
    Inside
    Harami Beef Skewers
    Harami Beef Skewers
    Tsukuna Skewers

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    Tsukuna Skewers
    Koshiji

    Koshiji

    4.1
    (284 reviews)
    2.7 mi
    $$

    The food is decent, but the experience needs work. The room was hot and uncomfortable, almost like…read moreeating inside a humid gym. I understand yakitori is cooked over a grill and the smell is part of the experience, but sweating through dinner in a small shop is not charming. Turn up the AC or improve the ventilation. Service also felt cold. There was no warmth, no hospitality, no sense that anyone was glad people were there. The grill master mostly stared through the room, which made the whole place feel more awkward than welcoming. As for the food, some skewers were good, but others were noticeably over salted. For something as simple and focused as yakitori, the execution has to be tighter than that. There are plenty of yakitori spots around. If the food were exceptional, maybe the uncomfortable room and flat service would be easier to forgive. But right now, the flavors aren't strong enough to make the experience worth repeating.

    This izakaya is located in an unassuming strip mall but its food is anything but. I had been…read morefiending for some yakitori since our last visit to Tokyo and this spot did not disappoint. If I had been able to eat crunchier / harder stuff (I had dental work done prior), I would have been more adventurous with the menu. They had so many delicious looking options! That being said, the skewers were AMAZING. Their chicken skewers, the scallop, and the veggies were cooked to perfection. I felt like I had just walked back into a legit izakaya in Tokyo. The vibes were amazing, the staff was so friendly. I will absolutely be back. 10000000/10

    Photos
    Kushiyaki course
    Kushiyaki course
    Chicken Wings ($4.50), Chicken & Green Onions ($4.25), Pork w/ Shiso Leaf ($4.75), Okra w/ Pork ($4.50)  01-02-2026
    Chicken Wings ($4.50), Chicken & Green Onions ($4.25), Pork w/ Shiso Leaf ($4.75), Okra w/ Pork ($4.50) 01-02-2026
    Koshiji

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    zoku

    zoku

    4.5
    (141 reviews)
    4.7 mi
    $$$

    Wow! My first visit this past weekend; this place is a little hidden gem!!…read moreFirst, Mary Kate was amazing at the front. She had great suggestions and was so very nice!!! Our server, Yui K, was also fantastic!! She recommended a lovely sake (Shinryu Nishiki) and desserts for my friend and me and was so efficient and sweet! (Mary Kate had already given us a number of suggestions for the appetizers and skewers.) Zoku Q: yummy!! Spicy Karaage: Oh my goodness! Eyes rolling back delicious! Giant Ebi Mayo: shrimp (huge!) cooked perfectly and also so delicious! Elote Corn Ribs: excellent flavor, but there are only four very small pieces so not worth the price (to us). Skewers were all good: Momo Teri, Mune Ume, Wagyu Beef, Unagi, Tsukune. We would definitely order the wagyu beef, Tsukune and Momo Teri again. (The others were good but not as good as these three.) For dessert we ordered the Panna Cotta and the Custard Pudding. Completely different textures but would order either again! I will enjoy returning!

    The staff who greet you at the entrance, as well as the servers, are all wonderfully attentive! The…read moreatmosphere is great, and every staff member creates a very welcoming vibe whenever a customer walks in! Since this was my second visit, I ordered things I hadn't tried the last time. As always, every dish looked so appealing -- the plating is absolutely stunning. The overall balance, colors, and presentation... everything made me want to take photos. Compared to other yakitori restaurants, the selection might be a bit limited, and die-hard yakitori fans may find it a little lacking, but it is definitely worth visiting at least once! My personal favorite here is the Chicken with Honey Mustard! The Karaage sauce is also incredible!! And finally, the desserts -- always something to look forward to! Every single one tastes like it came straight from a fine pastry shop, and I'm always blown away. I'm already looking forward to my next visit! Next time, I'd love to come for lunch and try the Yuzu Shio Ramen.

    Photos
    I forgot to take pictures of my Beef and Shrimp skewers because I couldn't wait to enjoy it.
    I forgot to take pictures of my Beef and Shrimp skewers because I couldn't wait to enjoy it.
    Soft shell crab
    Soft shell crab
    Yakitori

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    Yakitori
    Izakaya Akatsuki

    Izakaya Akatsuki

    4.5
    (474 reviews)
    2.4 mi
    $$
    Family-owned & operated
    Large group friendly

    The staff here operates with that smooth, friendly efficiency that makes you feel like they've been…read moreexpecting you all day. Water refills appear out of thin air, dishes land on the table right when your stomach starts whispering, and everyone has that calm, welcoming vibe that makes the whole experience feel easy. This place is cozy, warm, and tucked away in a strip mall. it's the kind of spot where you settle in and instantly forget where you are. Soft lighting, relaxed chatter, and that comforting izakaya energy make it feel like a neighborhood hideout. You come here to unwind, snack, sip, and smile. Depending on what part of the day you arrive. Let's talk about the important things. This is where Akatsuki really flexes. Every dish hits that "oh yeah, "this is why we came out tonight" level. * Tempura, light, crispy, and somehow still fluffy. The kind of tempura that makes you judge every other tempura you've ever had. * Sunomono Octopus, bright, refreshing, and perfectly chewy. A palate cleanser that doubles as a confidence booster. * Hard Shell Clams, briny, buttery, and served sizzling. You'll be tempted to pick up the bowl and drink the broth like soup. * Salmon Bowl, so fresh, vibrant, and generously portioned. It's the bowl that hugs your soul. * Onigiri, simple, comforting, and exactly what you want it to be. A rice triangle with main-character energy. * Karaage Fried Chicken, finder licking good, crispy, juicy, and borderline dangerous. You'll consider ordering a second plate before finishing the first. * Spicy Crispy Tofu, Shockingly addictive. Even tofu skeptics will start questioning their life choices. * Yellowtail Sashimi, so delicious, clean, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth smooth. The kind of sashimi that makes you close your eyes for a few seconds....hopefully you don't fall a sleep it's that comforting. At one point, the karaage was so good I briefly considered writing it a thank‑you card. And the clams...Wow! They had me contemplating whether I should take home the shells and make a necklace as a souvenir. "Always remember, good energy brings good energy!" Miguel C.

    Home-y vibes izakaya at a strip mall…read more Went for a Friday dinner. Parking was easy at the time, but do know the plaza can get a little busy in the evening. The inside decor was home-y, with regular seating and a few tatami rooms. Had a rsvp for a booth and was sat immediately. Ordered a few different dishes: - Sweet potato tempura - Agadashi tofu - yellowtail jalapeño sashimi - soba noodles - chicken curry rice Everything was really good - but the chicken curry rice and sashimi stood out. They also did get our soba noodle order wrong and received udon, but the udon was good also. Prices were reasonable for the amount of food you get. Would come back!

    Photos
    Parts of our selection of sake
    Parts of our selection of sake
    Izakaya Akatsuki
    12-16-2023

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    12-16-2023
    Ojiya

    Ojiya

    4.1
    (451 reviews)
    2.8 mi
    $$

    Located in the heart of Torrance, we must have passed by it a thousand times without noticing. It…read morefinally caught our eye today while we were checking out a new restaurant in the same plaza, so we decided to stop in. The restaurant, with its vibe of a traditional izakaya, is quite cozy with seating for 30 guests max in the front section, plus a small room in the back. Since it was before noon, we got seated without waiting, and the friendly staff brough water and menus right away. The menu was quite extensive, ranging from sushi and simple udon to monkfish liver. For this visit, we ordered the following dishes (food arrived in 10 minutes): 3 Item Combo (Salmon, Teriyaki Chicken, and Tempura): The thinly battered shrimp and veggies were fluffy and crispy. The chicken pieces with light teriyaki sauce were quite tender. The perfectly seasoned salmon piece was fresh and buttery flaky. Miso soup was umami without being too salty. The steamed rice was slightly on the firm side. Grilled Beef Tongue: Every piece was perfectly grilled and buttery soft, and the carrot threads and onions went well with the meat. The portion is on the small side, so it is advised to order it with rice and soup. Overall, it was a very enjoyable meal and we are looking forward to coming back for their other dishes. Highly recommended.

    My Japanese friend recommended this spot for authentic Japanese food! It has a warm, casual…read moreatmosphere filled with Japanese locals! The service was quick and the establishment is also run by Japanese staff, emphasizing traditional, authentic cuisine. I ordered the curry with tonkatsu and really enjoyed it! It was a hearty portion at a reasonable price. It had a home cooked meal taste and it made me feel warm inside! I imagine it's what's typically served in households in Japan with flavors that locals reminisce about. Their custard was good too! Would recommend this place for affordable, authentic Japanese food!

    Photos
    Takana Fried Rice
    Takana Fried Rice
    Udon Carbonara
    Udon Carbonara
    Tonkotsu Ramen

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    Tonkotsu Ramen

    Izakaya Ringo - sushi - Updated August 2026

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