Best Japanese Restaurants in Downey / Norwalk / Santa Fe Springs

Price

$$
$$$
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Regions

DowntownEast LALong Beach / CatalinaNorth Orange CountySan Gabriel Valley

Neighborhoods

Arts DistrictBuena ParkDowney / Norwalk / Santa Fe SpringsDowntownLittle TokyoLong Beach

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

12 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Benihana - Downey, CA restaurant

1. Benihana - Downey, CA

3.9

Excellent(5973)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Downey / Norwalk / Santa Fe Springs

Booked 73 times today

Welcome to Benihana, a dining experience unlike any other! Our guests are seated at communal tables in groups, where your personal chef will perform the ancient art of Teppanyaki. Watch as we slice and dice, preparing a meal that will dazzle your eyes as well taste buds, whether you choose mouth-watering steak, tender chicken or succulent seafood. You can also enjoy sushi prepared by a talented sushi chef and indulge in a specialty cocktail.

2. Camelia

4.7

Exceptional(252)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Arts District

Booked 39 times today

Camelia in the Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles offers a delightful blend of French and Japanese cuisine that is nothing short of extraordinary. This bistro captivates diners with its "sublime culinary journey" that seamlessly marries inventive flavors with authentic Japanese influences. Guests rave about their exquisite dishes, expressing that "food, service, and ambiance are awesome," with standout plates like the "Koji-roasted chicken" and "Abalone and Florida wild pink shrimp pot pie" receiving high praise. The meticulously curated menu reflects a deep respect for traditional Japanese flavors while introducing fresh, innovative spins that make each visit a unique and memorable experience.

A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Cerritos, CA | Landmark Square restaurant

3. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Cerritos, CA | Landmark Square

4.5

Awesome(432)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Long Beach

Booked 10 times today

Founded in Tokyo in 1996, Gyu-Kaku has become the world’s #1 Japanese BBQ brand! Thanks to our devoted fans we have reached over 700 locations worldwide. Each day, hundreds of thousands of people gather around the table-top smokeless grill, a centerpiece of our dining concept, enjoying selections of premium meats, just off the grill, and other freshly prepared foods from our kitchens, inspiring laughter, conversation, and a magical dining experience.Our authentic yakiniku (grilled barbeque) dining experience crowns you the chef. Share a variety of delicious appetizers and premium cooked meats over a flaming grill, paired with Japanese sake, frosty cold beers, or other alcoholic and non-alcoholic options of your choice. We're the perfect spot to enjoy time with friends and family, organize an office party, or to spend quality time with your significant other!Before you go, don't forget to taste our best-seller Harami Skirt Steak or Prime Kalbi Short Rib among other must-try dishes!

A photo of Sushi Enya - Little Tokyo restaurant

4. Sushi Enya - Little Tokyo

4.7

Exceptional(138)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Downtown

Booked 6 times today

Sushi Enya in Little Tokyo, Downtown LA, is a beacon of authentic Japanese cuisine. Trained extensively in Japan, Chef Kimiyasu Enya crafts sushi that is both traditional and innovative, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience. Diners rave about the "excellent sushi and sashimi," highlighting the "super fresh" fish and "impeccable service." The restaurant's renowned Omakase is a must-try, with one guest exclaiming it was "the best Omakase I have ever had!" Sushi Enya's commitment to quality and consistency makes it a standout in LA's vibrant sushi scene, offering an unforgettable dining experience that is both authentic and exquisite.

5. Azabu Restaurant

4.5

Awesome(274)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Whittier

Booked 8 times today

Azabu Restaurant in Uptown Whittier is a seafood lover's dream, where each dish is crafted with unparalleled quality and authenticity. Guests rave about the "fresh and melt-in-your-mouth sushi" and the remarkable Grilled Octopus, which consistently leaves diners eager for more. The Lobster Trail and Yellowtail Carpaccio are standout favorites, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to elevating traditional Japanese seafood with innovative flair. With a full-service sushi bar and a vibrant atmosphere, Azabu offers the perfect blend of exceptional culinary artistry and a captivating dining experience. "By far one of the best sushi restaurants," Azabu is a must-visit for seafood connoisseurs.

6. Izakaya Ichie

4.3

Awesome(19)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Buena Park

Booked 1 time today

"With a unique and enticing Japanese atmosphere, Ichie offers the opportunity to explore many premier sakes from Japan. Ichie offers fusion Japanese delicacies using sustainable ingredients, including many you probably haven't encountered before. Ichie also offers Japanese fusion dishes which entertain you by looks and satisfy you with its taste. Fresh and delicious sashimi by our chef is the one of treasure you can find on your tongue. Also, Yakitori Platter, famous Mentaiko Cream Udon and Galbi Chop Steak Noodle are always customer's favorite items. We are located at The Source Mall in Buena Park." (1st floor)

7. Asayoru Maid Cafe

5.0

Exceptional(23)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Monterey Park

Booked 19 times today

Asayoru Maid Cafe is LA’s permanent brick and mortar maid cafe! Here, at Asayoru, you can…⭐️Experience high energy performances!⭐️Meet charming and talented maids! ⭐️Enjoy magical-tasting comfort foods! Be part of the moe moe magic!Welcome home, Masters and Princesses! ♡

8. TENSHO

4.9

Exceptional(71)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Little Tokyo

Booked 3 times today

Located in the vibrant heart of Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, TENSHO is a culinary gem that brings the authentic flavors of Kaiseki cuisine to life. Helmed by a 23-year veteran chef trained in traditional Japanese cookery, the restaurant offers a "premium experience" with its exquisite multi-course meals that are as close as you can get to Japan itself. Known for its "consistently outstanding" Shabu Shabu and "beautifully delicate, balanced, and delicious appetizers," TENSHO ensures each dish is crafted with the finest ingredients, including A5 wagyu beef and top-tier seafood. The thoughtful service and inviting atmosphere make it a "reliable place to visit all the time," promising diners an unforgettable dining journey.

9. Taberu

4.6

Exceptional(82)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Arts District

Booked 3 times today

Taberu offers a distinct taste of Tokyo right in the heart of Los Angeles' Arts District, blending authentic Japanese flavors with a creative twist. With chefs hailing directly from Tokyo, the restaurant offers a menu that surprises and delights, making it a must-visit for lovers of Asian cuisine. Guests rave about the “unique Tokyo/Los Angeles fusion” and the “delightful and thoughtful service” that complements every meal. Signature dishes like the Yasai Maki and innovative yakitori skewers receive high praise, with the bacon-wrapped grill being described as the “best Japanese grill food.” Taberu promises a culinary journey full of originality and exceptional experiences.

10. SAMA Handroll LA

4.3

Awesome(6)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Arts District

Booked 3 times today

Izakaya brought to you by Lester Lai, brand new to the Arts District.

‘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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

M
Mallori
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Was sat promptly with our reservation, great service, good food and drinks. Will return for sure!
More info
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Cerritos, CA | Landmark SquarePrice: Expensive• Japanese• Long Beach
•
4.5
P
Persia
1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
The ambience, the food the service was excellent! I was impressed and I will definitely be coming back
More info
Mrs. FishPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Downtown
•
4.6
E
EddieVIP
Los Angeles •7 reviews
4.0
Dined 4 days ago
The service and vibe was on point as usual! I was greeted and checked up on by the manager who’s always very friendly and welcoming. My server was very knowledgeable of the menu items and gave me valuable advice on some entrees and cocktails. This is one of my top 5 sushi spots in LA for sure.
More info
Azabu RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Sushi• Whittier
•
4.5
J
JamesVIP
New York City •5 reviews
5.0
Dined on May 3, 2025
If there is a more creative menu in LA, please advise.
More info
CameliaPrice: Very Expensive• French / Japanese• Arts District
•
4.7
S
Skye
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined on Apr 22, 2025
My son and I had a great time. The food was amazing . We were seated on time .
More info
Benihana - Downey, CAPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Downey / Norwalk / Santa Fe Springs
•
3.9

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