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Takuma
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Takuma
8.1
Traditional izakaya offering authentic Japanese small plates and extensive sake selection in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Chef Takuma brings genuine Tokyo-style dining with shareable dishes perfect for groups and an impressive variety of premium sake.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Karaage, Sukiyaki Hot Pot, Sake-Marinated Black Cod
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Authentic izakaya experience rare on the Westside
Who should go: Groups seeking shareable Japanese comfort food
When to visit: After work for lively atmosphere and sake
What to order: Sukiyaki, karaage, seasonal sake flight
Insider tip: Sit at the counter for chef interactions
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small lot fills by 6:30pm, valet $8, metered street parking until 8pm
Dress code: Casual to smart casual - anything from nice jeans to business casual fits
Noise level: Lively buzz - conversation-friendly at tables, louder at the bar
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation, bar seats often available sooner
Weekday lunch: No wait, though popular with local office crowd 12-1pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 8-10 options including agedashi tofu, veggie gyoza, seasonal tempura
Vegan options: Limited - edamame, veggie sushi rolls, ask server for modifications
Gluten-free options: Some options - sashimi, yakitori without sauce, staff knowledgeable
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for third date onwards - the sharing format and lively atmosphere work better when you're already comfortable. Counter seats create intimacy if available.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknights before 7pm usually fine. Friday/Saturday reserve or expect 30+ min wait. Bar seats turn over faster - great backup option.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes until 9pm - they have high chairs and kid-friendly options like chicken teriyaki and tempura. After 9pm becomes more of an adult sake bar scene.
Best For
Better for: More authentic izakaya experience than Katsuya, better sake selection than most Westside Japanese, superior late-night menu vs competitors
Skip if: Want quiet romantic ambiance (try Shunji instead) or quick takeout sushi (Sugarfish better for that)
Takuma
7.6
Traditional izakaya atmosphere meets California freshness at this cozy spot serving sushi alongside ramen, curry, and small plates. The authentic Japanese decor and extensive sake selection create a transportive experience for adventurous date nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
Assorted Sashimi Platter, Pork Belly Ramen, Salmon Teriyaki Roll
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Wide variety from sushi to ramen under one roof
Who should go: Couples wanting variety beyond just sushi
When to visit: Late evening for izakaya atmosphere
What to order: Sashimi platter, specialty rolls, sake flights
Insider tip: Try the off-menu daily specials
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small lot fills up fast, metered street parking until 8pm, valet $10 on weekends
Dress code: California casual - nice jeans and a decent shirt work, no need to dress up
Noise level: Lively but intimate - perfect for conversation at two-tops, louder near the bar
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation, bar seating sometimes available
Weekday lunch: Usually immediate seating, gets busy 12:30-1:30pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - veggie sushi rolls, agedashi tofu, vegetable tempura, edamame
Vegan options: Limited - avocado rolls, veggie tempura (ask about batter), seaweed salad
Gluten-free options: Challenging - can do sashimi and some rolls, but no tamari available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect - varied menu means safe options for any preference, sake flights are a fun icebreaker, and the cozy booths create intimacy without being too formal
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknights usually yes with a short wait, weekends risky - try the bar for faster seating or come before 6:30pm
Is it kid-friendly? Better for older kids (10+) - no kids menu but they love the tempura and California rolls, gets loud enough to absorb some noise
Best For
Better for: One-stop Japanese comfort food variety - where else can you get quality sushi, ramen, and curry without compromising? Plus the sake selection beats most specialty sushi bars
Skip if: You want omakase-level sushi precision or a quiet romantic atmosphere - this is more fun izakaya energy than refined sushi counter experience