25 Best Restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles in 2025
The restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles are like a culinary passport to Japan, serving flavors that transport you straight to this magical country. As one of only three remaining Japantowns in the U.S., Little Tokyo embodies the essence of Japanese heritage.
From savory bowls of ramen to handcrafted mochi and fresh sushi, the best restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles attract passionate food lovers from all over the world.
With so many authentic and enticing options, where do you even begin? This guide will lead you to the best Little Tokyo, Los Angeles restaurants, ensuring every visit leaves you completely satisfied.
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The 25 Best Little Tokyo, Los Angeles Restaurants
1. Rakkan Ramen
Opened in 2017, Rakkan Ramen brings a unique take to the ramen scene among restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, offering 100% plant-based broths. Originating in Tokyo, this ramen shop offers a variety of flavorful bowls made from vegetable broths, including original recipes that can be ordered in spicy and creamy varieties.
The Vibe
This Japanese eatery, with its minimalist décor and bamboo accents, is a popular spot most nights. It’s easily one of the best casual restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles.
What to Order
Indulge in the Garnet Miso Ramen, where the rich blend of miso and sesame paste is perfectly complemented by grilled pork, bamboo shoots and a seasoned egg.
Rakkan Ramen | 359 First St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
2. Marukai Market
Known for its wide selection of pre-made bentos, Marukai Market offers generous portions at great prices. Aside from ready-to-eat meals, Marukai is a treasure trove of Japanese goods, from fresh sashimi to an impressive collection of sake.
The Vibe
Though not like most restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, this grocery market is stocked with unique Japanese snacks and features an outdoor seating area.
What to Order
The pre-made bento boxes, such as the popular chicken karrage bento, are a top pick for a quick and affordable lunch. The sushi options like inari rolls or the mixed fish nigiri selection are also worth trying.
Marukai Market | 123 Astronaut Ellison S. Onizuka St., Ste. 105, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
3. Torigoya
For a laid-back yakitori experience, head to Torigoya on the second floor of Weller Court. As one of the top restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles for grilled chicken skewers, it serves everything from juicy thighs and chicken meatballs to unique options like gizzards.
The Vibe
The interior exudes traditional Japanese vibes with bamboo accents and a central kitchen. It's a lively spot, making it one of the most energetic restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles.
What to Order
Try the 10-skewer course, featuring a variety of cuts of chicken, such as breast, liver, gizzard, meatball, thigh skin, heart and wing, served with salad and chicken soup.
Torigoya | 123 Astronaut Ellison S. Onizuka St., Ste. 203, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
4. Yamazaki Bakery
For a taste of Japan's best pastry offerings, Yamazaki Bakery is one of the top restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles. This Japanese-style bakery is known for its fluffy steamed buns and pastries, such as melon pan and Japanese cheesecake.
The Vibe
This is exclusively a grab-and-go spot, with the large selection of bakery items in glass pastry cases enticing long lines of hungry customers. Even if you have to wait in line, it’s well worth it to try the moreish treats on offer at this restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles.
What to Order
Try the steamed pork and chicken buns, packed with tender meat and savory flavors.
Yamazaki Bakery | Multiple Locations | $
5. Azay
From the traditional Japanese breakfast with saba mackerel and tamago to French classics like freshly baked baguettes, Azay expertly blends French and Japanese cuisines. Opened in 2019, this family-run eatery is the latest chapter for Chef Akira and one of the most beloved restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles.
The Vibe
The exterior may resemble an art store, but inside, it’s a casual eatery with a central kitchen and cozy seating. As it’s one of the most popular restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, you may struggle to find open tables.
What to Order
For dinner, Azay offers a set menu with a choice of an amuse bouche, main and a dessert for under $75. The menu varies often, but dishes you may get to savor include Santa Barbara white bass with Weiser Farm sunchokes and saba vinegar, and yuzu soy milk panna cotta.
Azay | 226 First St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
6. Tsukemen Aizen
Specializing in deluxe dip-ramen, Tsukemen Aizen serves thinly shaved pork arranged in beautiful flower shapes, alongside thick noodles, spinach, lotus root and boiled eggs. As one of the top ramen restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, the true highlight is the side bowl of umami-packed broth, rich in fish flavors, that coats each noodle with an explosion of salty, fatty goodness.
The Vibe
One of the most casual restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, this spot features art gallery vibes with stunning ocean artwork and unique crystal chandeliers.
What to Order
Order the tonkotsu ramen, featuring your choice of broth, topped with fish cake, fried lotus root, rare-cooked chashu and thick noodles.
Tsukemen Aizen | 232 E. Second St., Ste. B, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
7. Sushi Kaneyoshi
Located in the Kajima Development Corporation building, Sushi Kaneyoshi offers a seasonal 20-course menu with delicacies like Hokkaido crab chawanmushi, ankimo and nodoguro. For an unforgettable omakase experience, this is one of the most refined sushi restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles to dine at.
The Vibe
Like other omakase restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, this spot offers an elegant, minimalist design with chefs crafting each serving of sushi by hand.
What to Order
When sitting down to the omakase experience, you could be treated to the delicate chawanmushi with Hokkaido crab or the nodoguro — a smoky, fatty, black-throat sea perch that melts in your mouth. There are also take-out boxes filled with high-end sushi to indulge in on-the-go.
Sushi Kaneyoshi | 250 First St., Ste. B1, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$$$
8. Sushi Gen
Since its opening in 1980, Sushi Gen has become a cornerstone of Japanese culinary culture in LA. Known as one of the best restaurants in Los Angeles to offer exceptional value, diners can enjoy a range of affordable fare, from weekday sashimi specials to an unforgettable omakase experience.
The Vibe
This lively restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles has intimate wooden rooms and bar seating, where chefs prepare each piece of sushi right in front of you.
What to Order
Treat yourself to the sashimi dinner at this restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, where you'll enjoy an expertly curated selection of fresh meat and fish, together with rice and a tempura appetizer.
Sushi Gen | 422 E. Second St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$$
9. Fugetsu-Do
Dating all the way back to 1903, Fugetsu-Do is the go-to spot in the area for the tastiest Japanese mochi and manju. This family-owned restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles is led by master manju confectioner and third-generation owner, Brian Kito. Together with his family, he has refined the culinary art of traditional and contemporary confectioneries for visitors from all over to enjoy.
The Vibe
A quaint yet bustling (due to immense popularity) restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles where countless Japanese sweet treats are on display in cabinets and on shelves.
What to Order
Why not try a mixture of mochi varieties with a selection of the blueberry, red bean and strawberry flavors?
Fugetsu-Do | 315 First St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
10. Bar Sawa
Tucked away in a basement in Little Tokyo, Bar Sawa offers a unique Edomae-style sushi experience. The intimate, speakeasy-inspired setting makes it one of the must-visit restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles. With just a handful of seats, this hidden gem provides a personalized omakase experience, featuring expertly crafted nigiri and a selection of playful cocktails.
The Vibe
As one of the most refined restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, it has an elegant dining space with bamboo artwork of oriental birds and plant designs — perfect for admiring while enjoying high-end sake.
What to Order
Enjoy the omakase experience featuring 18 courses of Edomae-style sushi.
Bar Sawa | 111 S. San Pedro St., Ste. B1, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$$
11. Chinchikurin
Focusing on one dish and mastering it, Chinchikurin is one of the must-visit restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, offering Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. This popular multilayered savory pancake features chewy yakisoba noodles, crispy pork, fresh veggies and a rich, sweet-salty sauce, all topped with a giant egg.
The Vibe
This fast-casual restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles has counter-ordering and an open kitchen which adds an uplifting, lively energy for every visitor to enjoy.
What to Order
Try the famous Chinichikurinyaki, made with shoburiyaki — a savory ground beef blend grilled to perfection.
Chinchikurin | 350 First St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
12. Sushi Takeda
Led by Chef Hide Takeda, who began his culinary journey at the age of 17, Sushi Takeda offers a high-end omakase experience. Known for its signature dishes like iwashi maki and delicacies such as otoro and sea bream, Sushi Takeda is one of the most authentic restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles for sushi lovers.
The Vibe
Enter into one of the best Japanese restaurants in Los Angeles where your eyes will be met with the delight of wooden accents and maestro chefs crafting sushi.
What to Order
The miso soup followed by the iwashi maki makes for a great meal combination at this restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles.
Sushi Takeda | 123 Astronaut Ellison S. Onizuka St., Ste. 307, 3rd Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$$$
13. Kaminari Gyoza Bar
Famous for its Utsunomiya-style gyoza, Kaminari Gyoza Bar brings the renowned taste of Japan’s gyoza capital to Little Tokyo. This cozy restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles serves pan-fried, deep-fried and boiled dumplings with fillings like pork, shrimp, chicken and vegetables.
The Vibe
Step through the yellow Japanese cloth into a casual restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles with brick walls and an open kitchen.
What to Order
Try the pan-fried yaki gyoza, or opt for the bento box, which includes gyoza, rice, spaghetti, vegetables, spring rolls and pickles.
Kaminari Gyoza Bar | 323 First St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
14. Mitsuru Café
Having a long-standing presence in the community, Mitsuru Café is a beloved gem among restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles. This café serves dishes like rice bowls, tempura and teriyaki, all at affordable prices. It’s also particularly famous for its freshly made imagawayaki — mini pancakes filled with red bean paste.
The Vibe
The bamboo dividers and nostalgic atmosphere make it one of the most authentic restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles.
What to Order
Try the katsu donburi, featuring a crispy, deep-fried pork cutlet paired with vegetables and a cooked egg, served atop rice. Even if you don’t have much of a sweet tooth, you need to try the imagawayaki for dessert — you may be surprised by how much you enjoy it!
Mitsuru Café | 117 Japanese Village Plaza Mall, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $
15. Marugame Monzo
Known for its freshly made, bouncy noodles that are rolled and cut right in front of diners, Marugame Monzo is one of the most unique restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles.
The Vibe
The atmosphere reflects a traditional Japanese noodle house. At this authentic restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, you can watch as noodles are handmade in an open kitchen by experienced and passionate chefs.
What to Order
Try the miso carbonara udon, which uniquely blends rich miso with creamy carbonara sauce, bacon and a perfectly cooked egg.
Marugame Monzo | 329 First St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
16. Hama Sushi
Specializing in fresh, high-quality sushi, Hama Sushi offers an intimate setting and is particularly famous for its toro, uni and albacore sashimi. If you’re on the hunt for top-tier yet affordable sashimi, this is one of the best restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles to head to.
The Vibe
The interior of this restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles offers a traditional Japanese feel with wooden counter seating surrounding the kitchen, allowing you to watch as the chefs prepare each roll in front of you.
What to Order
Pick from a wide array of fresh sushi and sashimi at this authentic restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, with options like the albacore sashimi and the eel and avocado roll being very popular
Hama Sushi | 347 E. Second St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$$
17. The Mermaid
Located in Honda Plaza, The Mermaid is beloved for its nautical-themed cocktails, tasty bar snacks and lively entertainment. With karaoke nights and live DJs, it’s one of the best spots to visit if you're searching for date ideas in Los Angeles or for a fun place to hang out with friends.
The Vibe
The cocktail lounge has nautical décor, including algae, plants and fishing nets. The addition of dark neon lights and disco balls makes The Mermaid one of the most unique restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles.
What to Order
Try the Buffalo wings for a delicious familiar favorite and pair them with any of the creative cocktails on the impressive menu.
The Mermaid | 428 E. Second St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
18. Aloha Café
Serving hearty Hawaiian classics like loco moco, Spam musubi and kalua pork lunches, Aloha Café is a beloved mom-and-pop diner. It has quickly become one of the most popular restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, known for its generous portions and comforting meals.
The Vibe
Aloha Café is a casual restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles with plenty of booths and tables, featuring minimal Hawaiian décor.
What to Order
Try the kalua pork with cabbage, where tender smoked pulled pork seasoned with Hawaiian salt is served with rice and macaroni salad.
Aloha Café | 410 E. Second St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
19. Tensho
Opened as the successor to Kagaya, Tensho continues the legacy of high-end shabu-shabu. Under the guidance of Chef Takumi Kawano, this premier restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles combines traditional Japanese flavors with a modern touch. The high-end dishes on offer make it an ideal pick for a special occasion, such as an anniversary or birthday dinner in Los Angeles.
The Vibe
Step inside and you’ll find a blend of lantern chandeliers, bamboo accents and cozy booths, making it one of the most traditional Japanese restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles.
What to Order
Indulge in the deluxe A5 wagyu — a shabu-shabu course paired with your choice of appetizers, such as udon noodles with assorted vegetables or zosui rice soup.
Tensho | 418 E. Second St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$$
20. Pasta e Pasta by Allegro
Two of the most popular cuisines in the world combine at Pasta e Pasta by Allegro, where a blend of Italian and Japanese food adorns plates for visitors from all over. The menu features creative fusion dishes, offering a one-of-a-kind experience that goes beyond your typical Los Angeles food.
The Vibe
The cozy atmosphere blends European elegance with old-world charm. With vintage paintings and intricate chandeliers, it's one of the most unique restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles.
What to Order
Try the uni pasta, featuring a velvety cream sauce that perfectly complements the delicate, briny sweetness of fresh uni on top.
Pasta e Pasta by Allegro | 432 E. Second St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
21. Izakaya Bizan
For an authentic izakaya experience, this restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles is the place to be. Comparable to the best spots for hibachi in Los Angeles, it is perfect for enjoying delicious yakitori and cold beers with friends. Along with its grilled skewers, the menu at Izakaya Bizan also offers tempting dishes like sushi, ramen and tempura.
The Vibe
Wooden tables, classic Japanese house-style décor and fabric dividers make it one of the most authentic restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles.
What to Order
Some of the best food in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles can be ordered from this eatery’s extensive sushi menu. Popular orders include the albacore roll and the spicy tuna roll that's perfect for those who enjoy their sushi with a little heat.
Izakaya Bizan | 333 S. Alameda St., Ste. 314, Los Angeles, CA 90013 | $$
22. Shin-Sen-Gumi
Opened in 1992 by Mitsuyasu Shigeta, Shin-Sen-Gumi is one of the most beloved restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, bringing its signature Hakata-style ramen to hungry guests. This spot lets diners create their perfect bowl of tonkatsu ramen, with options for broths, noodles and a variety of toppings.
The Vibe
Step into a high-ceiling, loft-style building buzzing with hungry customers. The central kitchen adds to the overall atmosphere at this restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, emanating irresistible aromas throughout the space.
What to Order
Order the spicy dandan men, featuring a rich sesame miso broth, red chile pepper, seasoned ground pork and tender beef. As this eatery offers customization, you can also purchase extra toppings for your ramen to make it just how you like it.
Shin-Sen-Gumi | 132 S. Central Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
23. Sushi Go 55
Located on the third floor of the Little Tokyo Galleria, Sushi Go 55 has been serving delectable meals since 1929. This family-run gem offers affordable lunch specials, expertly crafted nigiri and comforting dishes, solidifying its place among the top restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles.
The Vibe
Inside, this spot exudes the charm of a classic Japanese eatery, with chefs crafting sushi right before your eyes at the bar. Cozy booths and wooden accents at this restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles create a warm atmosphere.
What to Order
There are few better restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles to get a plate of the freshest, most delicious sashimi. Popular types include salmon, yellowtail and bluefin tuna.
Sushi Go 55 | 333 Alameda St., Ste. 317, Los Angeles, CA 90013 | $$
24. Kouraku
Established in 1976, Kouraku is a family-owned gem serving Japanese comfort food in Downtown LA. As one of the oldest restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, it’s earned a reputation for its hearty ramen, flavorful curries and other nostalgic dishes.
The Vibe
Kouraku is a unique restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles as it has robot servers that deliver food to the comfy leather booths.
What to Order
Treat yourself to the unadon — a bowl of grilled eel glazed in a sweet-savory sauce over fluffy rice, served with miso soup.
Kouraku | 314 E. Second St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
25. Daikokuya
Tucked in the heart of this historic neighborhood, Daikokuya has been a cornerstone restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles since 2002. You can expect to find noodle fanatics aplenty indulging in the signature tonkotsu broth at this popular spot.
The Vibe
Inside, you’ll find a compact ramen shop, true to Japan’s style, with bar seating facing the chefs as well as cozy booths for more intimate dining. The vibrant atmosphere and classic design make it one of the most lively and authentic restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles.
What to Order
Order the popular Daikoku Ramen at this restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles — this signature dish features a rich tonkotsu broth, tender pork belly chashu and house-made ramen noodles.
Daikokuya | 327 First St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
Other Foodie Experiences in Los Angeles
If you’re a passionate foodie, you can recreate the flavors of the best eateries in Little Tokyo in your own kitchen thanks to cooking classes in Los Angeles. These exciting, hands-on experiences offer you the chance to learn how to craft gourmet dishes with the guidance of professional chefs.
From rolling sushi like a pro to creating rich, flavorful ramen broths that rival the best food in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, there’s lots of fun to be had and valuable skills to be learned.
If you’d rather leave the cooking to someone else, food tours in Los Angeles provide the perfect way to discover the city’s best-kept secrets. These guided tours, led by local food experts, offer a behind-the-scenes look at the top-rated restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, and beyond.
This list of the best restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, should have shown you that you don’t have to fly to Japan to experience authentic cuisine. Picture packed ramen shops with steam rising from rich broths or chefs slicing sashimi and tossing fresh udon noodles right in front of you.
Little Tokyo’s dining scene is an immersion into the sights, sounds and unforgettable tastes of Japanese cooking. With this guide in hand, you’ll be ready to discover the best food Little Tokyo, Los Angeles has to offer!
For even more ways to explore Los Angeles and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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