Tenkatori Costa Mesa
$ • Japanese, Gluten-Free, Chicken Wings Book a table: 7:00 PM 7:15 PM 7:30 PM MoreAbout Tenkatori Costa Mesa
Customers' Favorites
Tenkatori Costa Mesa Reviews
The last hidden gem in Costa Mesa. This easily tops waiting for chick fil a down the street. I let the cashier guide my order because I was too tired to come to a decision. He suggested the special which was wise of him because it includes 4 karage (tender fried chicken thigh) a potato croquette, 3 cali roll pieces and a salad with potato salad, excellent for a post 9 hour work day meal. My pregnant wife got the 5 piece karage and said it changed her life for the better. I didn’t...read full review
Best karaage here. With the yuzu mayo? Delicious
I have eaten here or delivered 6-7 times with my partner and it’s always a wonderful treat for us. She has celiac’s so it’s great she has so many safe options here. She usually gets karaage with sweet and sour sauce and some California rolls which are great even though they specialize in chicken here.
I don’t have to eat gluten free but I still find the karaage very delicious, it’s hard to tell it’s gf. I usually get the curry combo with...read full review
Hours
| Monday | 11:30AM - 8PM |
| Tuesday | 11:30AM - 8PM |
| Wednesday | 11:30AM - 8PM |
| Thursday | Closed |
| Friday | 11:30AM - 8PM |
| Saturday | 11:30AM - 8PM |
| Sunday | 12 - 8PM |
Tenkatori Costa Mesa is a small restaurant known for its delicious fried Japanese chicken, especially its karaage. Many reviewers highlight the juiciness, crispiness, and flavorful taste of the chicken, which is made using chicken thighs with authentic Japanese-style thick breading. The fried chicken, including options like the 5-piece boneless fried chicken thighs and the 12-piece karaage, is praised for being hot, tender, and not greasy, with some mentioning its amazing texture and flavor. The sauces are also a standout feature, offering a variety of options such as spicy mayo, sweet and sour, sweet and spicy, and tartar sauce, which complement the chicken well.
Guests appreciate the friendly and patient staff, who are understanding of gluten concerns, making the place a good choice for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. The restaurant has a cozy, small atmosphere with limited seating, but the quality of food and service compensates for this. Many customers find the prices reasonable for the generous portions provided, and some have ordered large quantities for group lunches, praising the flexibility and hospitality of the owners.
While the restaurant doesn’t serve beer, it offers a selection of beverages like Calpico, and the food is often described as authentic and comparable to the best outside of Japan. Overall, Tenkatori Costa Mesa is highly recommended for anyone craving flavorful, crispy karaage and Japanese fried chicken, with many plans to return for more.