Los Angeles, CA
For Japanese in Los Angeles, the local food press points to n/naka, RVR, and Tsubaki. Picks from The Infatuation, updated April 2026.
Editor’s picks
Press picks, until locals rank their own Top 5s. Sourced from the local food press. As seen in The Infatuation. Updated April 2026.
n/naka · Palms
Infatuation's top-rated LA Japanese (8.9) — Niki Nakayama's two-Michelin-starred Culver City kaiseki, the city's most celebrated tasting-menu experience.
RVR · Venice
Infatuation's #2 (8.6) — Abbot Kinney izakaya whose precise grilled skewers and seasonal sashimi have become a Venice destination.
Tsubaki · Echo Park
Infatuation's #3 (8.6) — Echo Park neighborhood izakaya with a deep sake program and some of LA's most considered small plates.
Wagyu Butcher Japanese BBQ · Torrance
Infatuation pick (8.5) — South Bay yakiniku specialist where the A5 wagyu program is priced for Torrance rather than Beverly Hills.
Sakae Sushi · Gardena
Infatuation pick (8.5) — longtime Gardena sushi counter whose omakase holds its own against Westside rooms at a fraction of the price.
What’s your #1 Japanese in Los Angeles?
Rank your top five and be the first to set Los Angeles's local ranking.