Izakaya Restaurants near Long Beach, CA

“I had walked by Kihon countless times, but was hesitant to try it due to the font used for the name in kanji being so unauthentic. I'm glad I finally tried it though, as the food exceeded my expectations.Kihon is one of the few businesses still standing in this plaza. The interior is pretty and service was excellent. I believe there were some actual Japanese chefs working in the kitchen too.The menu is a decent size and food is definitely pricey but the quality is good. I particularly enjoyed the crunchy salmon skin hand roll (albeit a bit small) plus the miso eggplant dish. The mushroom miso soup was also tasty. I thought the menu said the ceviche dish had octopus, but there was no octopus in our ceviche.I feel like a measure of a good Japanese restaurant is also how tasty their steamed white rice is, and Kihon's was fluffy and warm. The spinach in the salmon and spinach dish was a bit oily and the texture a bit too melt-in-your-mouth (in a bad way, like disintegration) for my tastes.Overall, was pleasantly surprised by the tastiness of my meal here.“

“Had such a delicious dinner here. We knew they were known for their soba and tempura and we enjoyed these for sure, but I can’t stop thinking about the Berkshire pork rice dish! The atmosphere was cozy and the service was so friendly. Also thought the prices were reasonable for the quality and portions. I’m looking forward to going back!Parking: Limited free parking lot in the back“

“Parking is really easy even on weekends. The restaurant is spacious and the staff is friendly. The menu has lots of different food options. This place is great to hang out with friends and family to catch up or meet up. Our party had a baby, they have high chairs and staff were very accommodating, we did not feel like a nuisance while dining here. When the baby was rowdy and there was a lobby area just a short walk away to calm the baby down with various Japanese decor.“

“TL;DR Solid (hand and cut) rolls, sashimi and overall experience, no complaints Story: Been here for the second time after about ~6 months. Both times with family, both times seated pretty promptly. Ambiance: Parking hasn't been a problem both times, but the lot only takes ~10 or less cars. Service was adequate as more folks filtered in (cater your expectations to a restaurant with a few waiters) Generally clean (restroom was fine), and I didn't feel uncomfortable with any of the decor/music/lack of anything Food: Definitely solid roll choices, they have other things like teriyaki but can only comment on the fish/rolls Soy paper and rice less options are appreciated I'm all for handrolls and these hand rolls are definitely hefty (Lobster hand roll/Vicky hand rolls were very solid) Rolls were good and fish was relatively fresh (no complaints) Value: Decent value considering the quality of the fish and that it's a sushi roll place, would definitely give this place a chance if you're in the mood for a solid roll (but shout out to those large hand rolls).“

“Service was very attentive. Different wait staff will take away plates and refill beverages. they come around often to see if anything is needed. Food is prepared very well and all are shareable sizes. Nice Ambiance and relaxed atmosphere. Overall a good experience and a solid place to dine.“

“This restaurant offers plenty of seating and welcomes walk-ins during weekdays, making it easy to visit on a whim. The place is vibrant and arguably the best spot in the Torrance area for authentic Japanese cuisine at reasonable prices. I had the Shirasu Ikura Don, Roast Beef Don, a seafood bowl, and curry. Although primarily a sake bar, it serves substantial meals that are highly recommendable. A must-visit for anyone craving genuine Japanese flavors!“

“Came for a quick meal before a movie. Very cozy and the service is nice but wasn’t particularly impressed by the food, especially given how many great Japanese options there are in the area.Calpico Beer - was great and my SO ordered a secondTakowasa - disappointing unfortunately, the octopus wasn’t the freshest.Skewer plate - was just ok, some of the skewers were overcooked and most didn’t have enough seasoningSoft shell crab in chili sauce - pretty good! Not spicy and actually more sweetNatto and sashimi - natto is not for everyone but I like it, and this is a pretty good dish“

“I'm reluctant to write this review because I don't want anyone else to know about how cool Muso Style is. If you're Japanese, you'll love this place because it tries to replicate the smaller bars in Japan with it's food selection, cocktails, service, and ambience. It's great for small groups of up to 4 or dates, where you want as few people around you as possible, but also right next to you. I don't think they can fit more than 20 people in there and if they did, it would be too crowded. So keep this a secret!“

“This place is about as legit as it gets for me. I spent a bit of time in Japan lusting over the food and I was skeptical I could find the same attention to detail in the US but here it is (at least to my western taste buds). Every dish has character. It can get busy so don't expect walk ins to always work out, there is bar seating too if you want to come as a single and be comfortable. The servers are great as well. About 4 items is a full meal.“

“I love this restaurant and have been a fan since it offered free bento boxes with a stay at the New Gardena Hotel which is adjacent. The food is flavorful: the bacon fried rice DOES NOT MISS! Neither does the Beef Spareribs, nor grilled sliced pork with ginger. Love the Macaroni/Potato Salad. Flavorful food. Quaint hidden gem in Gardena.“

“Got into town late and was looking for something open past 9pm on a weekday and found this place closeby. Was a chilly night so hot ramen and beers to end the night was a win win for me.Parking was tight but we were seated right away, ordering the ramen set, fried rice and some beers. Service was quick, food was hot and delicious and we all left full and satisfied. 5 stars??“

“"I consistently have a fantastic experience at Gushiya. The staff goes above and beyond to take care of me and my family every visit. Not only is the service exceptional, but the food is consistently amazing. It's clear that they prioritize customer satisfaction, making each dining experience memorable. I highly recommend [Sushi Place] for their outstanding service and delicious sushi."“

“It was really delicious ? I wasn't expecting much from the shrimp, but the firmness of the shrimp and the flavor of the kelp exceeded my expectations! ! Everything was wonderful. The tongue was so soft and delicious. Even the salad dressing was delicious. The price shouldn't be compared to Japan, but it's worth it!March 2024For the first time in 3 years? I still had delicious yakitori. If you go with 5 people, is it already 18%? Please be careful as the chip was charged ?“

“One of if not my favorite ramen place in the South Bay area. I don't understand why there's not a waiting list. Today we walked in and the whole place was empty on a Saturday at 12:30 pm. Definitely needs a Keith Lee visit. Their black shisen ramen is one of my favorite bowls of ramen in los angeles. Only a few spots like tsujita (and annex) are higher on the list for me.“

“We went on Saturday before happy hr ended. K-pop! Good Day soju $8.Great service. Loved the comp popcorn. Food came fairly fast:beef yaki udon-- good balance of veggies, udon & beef (beef tasted old, tough, too).grilled chicken gizzard on a mound of veggies--required really strong teeth & jaws.yakitori variety & taste--decentMaybe better with pork-bacon & seafood options.First visit--meh date night dinner. Likely will be back with a group of drinking buddies (whom I've never gone out with). ;)“