Best Kyoto-style Restaurants in Historic South-Central

36 restaurants available nearby

1. Camelia

4.5

Price: Very Expensive

• Kyoto-style • Arts District

Booked 48 times today

Camelia, nestled in the vibrant Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles, is a French-Japanese bistro that masterfully blends contemporary French cuisine with subtle Japanese influences, creating a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Praised for its "innovative and creative" dishes, Camelia has quickly become a culinary gem in LA. Guests rave about the "exceptional food" and the beautifully designed space, making every visit a delight. Standout dishes include the striped bass with French succotash and the uni otoro toast bites, each described as a taste revelation. With its "friendly and competent service," Camelia ensures a top-notch dining adventure, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking to explore the best of contemporary French cuisine with a twist.

A photo of Maison Kasai at Level 8 restaurant

2. Maison Kasai at Level 8

4.3

Awesome(84)

Price: Expensive

• Kyoto-style • Downtown

Booked 2 times today

An interactive dining experience from Michelin-starred chef Joshua Gil, Maison Kasai is an elevated teppanyaki restaurant that combines French and Japanese techniques with culinary virtuosity and a touch of performance art. Chefs prepare each course to order on large iron grills, cooking blini to serve with caviar, searing lobster with Normandy butter and vin jaune from France, preparing A5 Wagyu sukiyaki-style, and finishing elegant sauces — all as you watch. Created exclusively for Level 8 by Gil, whose Beverly Hills restaurant Mírame has received widespread critical acclaim, Maison Kasai is a gastronomic experience and theatrical event in one. Please note that we are an Adults Only (21+) establishment after 9:00 PM. Parking validation is available.For parties of 8 or more guests, please email reservations@level8dtla.com.

3. HATCH

4.7

Exceptional(640)

Price: Expensive

• Kyoto-style • Downtown

Booked 14 times today

HATCH, nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Los Angeles, is a treasure trove of authentic Japanese cuisine with a delightful Californian twist. This izakaya bar & grill is renowned for its expertly curated yakitori and an inventive raw bar that keeps diners coming back for more. Patrons rave about the "exceptional service" and the "unforgettable" culinary experiences, highlighting dishes like the wagyu & wasabi and the squid ink karaage as absolute must-tries. The ambiance at HATCH is both modern and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a casual night out. As one reviewer put it, it’s “a hidden gem” where the fusion cuisine "isn’t just food; it’s art." Whether you're in for the innovative cocktails or the lively vibe, HATCH promises an extraordinary dining adventure in the heart of LA.

4. Shibumi

4.4

Awesome(189)

Price: Very Expensive

• Kyoto-style • Downtown

Shibumi, nestled in the bustling heart of Downtown Los Angeles, is a shining beacon of Californian cuisine, artfully blending traditional Japanese culinary principles with the bountiful produce of California. This intimate 40-seat venue is celebrated for its commitment to organic and locally-sourced ingredients, which are exquisitely showcased in its seasonal dishes. Diners rave about the "ethereal journey" of flavors, from "strong, earthy, umami" to "smoky," each dish awakening the senses, making every bite count. Critics and patrons alike applaud Shibumi, noting that "every bite was magic" and lauding its "superb care in every dish." Shibumi isn't just a meal; it's a profound experience that impeccably marries Californian abundance with Japanese finesse.

A photo of Lucky Mizu at Level 8 restaurant

5. Lucky Mizu at Level 8

4.4

Awesome(59)

Price: Expensive

• Kyoto-style • Downtown

At Lucky Mizu at Level 8 in Downtown Los Angeles, the shabu-shabu isn't just a meal; it's an experience. Praised as "easily the very best shabu-shabu I’ve ever had," this restaurant elevates traditional Japanese hot pot to new heights. Diners enjoy world-class wagyu and fresh vegetables in a stunning setting enhanced by live musical performances from a Grammy Award-winning harpist. The ambiance, described as "unique and beautiful," complements the exquisitely seasoned and health-conscious dishes. As one satisfied diner noted, the "ribeye shabu with spicy garlic sauce is a MUST." Lucky Mizu delivers an unforgettable blend of flavor, culture, and entertainment, making each visit a spectacular culinary adventure.

6. Eigikutei

4.8

Exceptional(87)

Price: Very Expensive

• Kyoto-style • Little Tokyo

Booked 5 times today

Eigikutei in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, offers an exquisite Shabu-shabu experience that stands out for its authenticity and quality. Diners rave about the Shabu-shabu, describing it as "abundant and delicious" with meticulous care taken in every dish served. The Hannari and Miyazaki Wagyu Shabu-shabu are particularly lauded, with one guest noting both selections are "amazing." The restaurant's atmosphere and service match the high standards of its cuisine, ensuring a memorable dining experience. As one reviewer puts it, Eigikutei's Shabu-shabu is worth the visit, making it an essential destination for those seeking authentic Japanese flavors in the heart of Los Angeles.

A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Los Angeles, CA | Downtown LA restaurant

7. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Los Angeles, CA | Downtown LA

4.8

Exceptional(145)

Price: Expensive

• Kyoto-style • Little Tokyo

Booked 12 times today

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ in Downtown Los Angeles offers a uniquely authentic barbecue experience that stands out in the vibrant Little Tokyo neighborhood. Known for its engaging "cook-your-own" style, the restaurant allows diners to become chefs at their tables, grilling premium meats to perfection. Patrons rave about the quality and flavor of offerings such as the "must-try" Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib, highlighting the "delicious and well-seasoned meats" that provide a mouthwatering experience. The setting is not only stylish and upscale but also conducive to a magical dining atmosphere, perfect for any occasion from casual lunches to celebratory dinners. Coupled with attentive service and a convivial ambiance, Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ delivers an unforgettable dining delight, making it a top destination for barbecue enthusiasts.

8. Ebaes

4.6

Exceptional(10)

Price: Moderate

• Kyoto-style • South Los Angeles

Booked 2 times today

At Ebaes in South Los Angeles, the fusion of traditional Asian flavors with a unique twist has locals and USC students raving, especially about their signature Ramen dishes. Their original Ebaes Ramen, a delightful blend of exotic and familiar tastes, is consistently praised for its creamy, flavorful broth and expertly cooked proteins. Customers have described the experience as “having a unique flavor reminiscent of Thai curry” and celebrated the dish for its “creamy and spicy” qualities that stand out in the crowded Ramen scene. With a charming atmosphere and a reputation for friendly service, Ebaes offers an unforgettable culinary exploration that's both innovative and deeply satisfying. A visit here promises not just a meal but a dive into a cultural exhibit of food and creativity.

9. TENSHO

4.9

Exceptional(69)

Price: Very Expensive

• Kyoto-style • Little Tokyo

Booked 7 times today

TENSHO, nestled in the vibrant heart of Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, is a beacon of Kaiseki cuisine, offering an authentic Japanese dining experience. Since its opening, TENSHO has won the hearts of diners with its "exquisite flavor" and "premium experience for special occasions," as noted in glowing reviews. The restaurant's 23-year veteran chef, trained in traditional Japanese cookery, masterfully crafts each dish to perfection, ensuring a "consistently outstanding" Kaiseki journey. Patrons rave about the "melt-in-your-mouth" A5 wagyu and the "superb" multi-course omakase, highlighting the freshness and quality of the ingredients. With a "very caring, nice service" and a "relaxed atmosphere," TENSHO is undoubtedly a jewel in Los Angeles’s culinary crown, perfect for those seeking a genuine taste of Japan.

A photo of The Hummingbird Ceviche House restaurant

10. The Hummingbird Ceviche House

4.8

Exceptional(44)

Price: Expensive

• Kyoto-style • Echo Park

Booked 24 times today

The Hummingbird Ceviche House in Echo Park, Los Angeles, is not just a restaurant; it's a celebration of Japanese-Peruvian (Nikkei) cuisine mastered by the world-renowned Chef Ricardo Zarate. This gem offers an authentic encounter with traditional Japanese culinary techniques, intertwined beautifully with Peruvian flavors, all while being elevated by local Californian influences. Diners are in for a treat with dishes like the "revelatory" tuna ceviche with miso leche tigre and extraordinary hand rolls featuring lemongrass aioli, praised as "chef’s kiss" by enthusiastic guests. Each visit promises an exploration of unique and meticulously crafted flavors, making The Hummingbird a must-visit for aficionados of genuine and innovative Japanese cuisine.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

Best Kyoto-style Restaurants in Historic South-Central

Price

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Top Rated

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Award-winning

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36 restaurants available nearby

1. Camelia

2. Maison Kasai at Level 8

3. HATCH

4. Shibumi

5. Lucky Mizu at Level 8

6. Eigikutei

7. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Los Angeles, CA | Downtown LA

8. Ebaes

9. TENSHO

10. The Hummingbird Ceviche House