Izakaya Restaurants near Costa Mesa, CA

“This place is perfection. We've eaten here so many times and it just keeps getting better and better. Wonderful friendly attentive staff, and lovely lo-fi chillout music to relax to. Honestly one of my favourite dining experiences is at this restaurant. Long May they reign.“

“My husband and I ordered several dishes, and everything was delicious and prepared meticulously. The broiled fish with grated daikon is one of the best things I’ve ever eaten. Our server was attentive and made our meal comfortable. The decor is more pared down, but very clean. We’re visiting from out of town, but if we lived in the area we would definitely go back.“

“Food is excellent here!! Must make reservation to enter. But if they tell you that tables are filled, ask for next available time frame. You won’t be sorry. It’s so good.“

“Wow everything we tried was top notch and service was amazing. Sesame tofu was a pleasant surprise that had everyone wanting more. Shabu shabu udon was seasoned to perfection and it even came with ponzu for the meat! Nabeyaki udon was spot on as well. You can tell they take care to make the dashi very well. Tempura chicken curry udon broth was also not too thick and not too salty, which was very pleasant too. Of course the chicken kaarage was super well seasoned and not heavily battered. Perfection. I’d love to come back to try more. Very few places do udon so well.“

“Super friendly staff and very attentive. Wonderful selection of Japanese small plates which are perfect for sharing while having a beer - Asahi of course. Went with my servers’ recommendations which did not disappoint.“

“Absolutely loved it here. The food was amazing. ❤️“

“Akuma Ramen keeps things simple, and that’s exactly what makes it stand out. The menu is focused and thoughtfully curated, with a clear emphasis on quality over quantity. Every item feels intentional, without unnecessary extras or distractions—just a tight selection of dishes done right.
The ramen itself delivers on every level. The broth is rich and deeply flavorful without being overwhelming, and the noodles have an ideal texture that gives each bite a satisfying mouthfeel. Everything comes together in a way that feels balanced and refined, making it clear that attention to detail is a priority here.
There’s a refreshing no-frills approach to the entire experience. Akuma Ramen isn’t trying to be trendy or overcomplicated—it’s simply committed to serving excellent food. In a place like Huntington Beach, that straightforward focus on quality makes it a standout spot worth coming back to.“

“Service is wonderful. Everyone is friendly. It’s like going to my Obason’s to have dinner. Everything about this place is authentically Okinawan. Oishī“

“What a wonderful restaurant! The food here is incredible! We especially love the California Rolls and Japanese soda. When they prepare tuna it's quite a show and so much fun! What's best is how kind they are to children. My son has become friends with the owners/ staff over the years, and always leaves with a huge smile on his face. 5 stars!!!“

“Soooooo good. I can still get in here with no line, however, there will come a time…….when there will be a long wait!“

“The Yuzu Shio Paitan ramen here is absolutely amazing! The broth has a deep, authentic Japanese dashi flavor, and the yuzu adds a bright, refreshing aroma. It’s perfectly balanced and incredibly delicious one of the best ramen bowls I’ve had in the U.S.“

“First time coming here and the sushi is amazing! We a many appetizers and they were all great! From the Jalapeño shrimp, mussels, and deep fried rice with spicy tuna on top! Bomb! Service was amazing too! TONY IS THE BEST, got to meet him! 💜“

“An Evening at Kin Izakaya: Where Tradition Meets Ambiance In the culinary haven that our city embodies, Kin Izakaya emerges as a sanctuary of authentic Japanese flavors combined with the convivial spirit typical of Japan’s iconic gastropubs. It’s here that tradition and modernity collide to create not just a meal, but an experience worth savoring. The moment you step through the doors of Kin Izakaya, you’re greeted by an atmosphere that’s both lively and intimately comforting. The ambient lighting, coupled with rustic décor and understated oriental motifs, offers a welcoming reprieve from the city’s hustle and bustle. The soft murmur of patrons engaged in animated conversation sets the backdrop for an authentic izakaya experience. Kin Izakaya’s menu is a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese fare and innovative culinary creations. The tapas-style dishes, perfect for sharing, encourage a communal dining experience. From the delicate flavors of their sashimi to the robust, savory notes found in their yakitori selection, there’s a delightful complexity in each dish presented. The agedashi tofu, with its perfect crispy exterior giving way to silken tofu within, is a testament to the chef’s prowess in honoring traditional flavors while serving contemporary palates.“

“Really nice place with some yummy food! Especially the avocado volcano!!“

“the best sushi🍣 and service we been going there for years 😃“

“Everything was amazing to the food, the atmosphere and service!“

“Such nice service and delicious sushi, udon/soba, sake, yam fries, edamame and tempura! (pictured is the Tekka naki and Unagi and California , crunchy eel roll, and spicy tuna roll!“