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Miyako Restaurant
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Miyako Restaurant
8.0
Woman-owned for over 20 years, this cozy Japanese restaurant balances traditional sushi bar excellence with ramen, katsu, and Korean-fusion offerings. The Chef's Omakase at remarkably accessible pricing draws regulars who appreciate fresh bluefin toro cuts appearing on special days alongside thoughtfully prepared hand rolls.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef's Omakase, Rainbow Roll, Tonkotsu Ramen
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Diverse Japanese-Korean menu with premium fish at neighborhood prices
Who should go: Families and groups wanting both sushi and cooked options
When to visit: Weekday lunch for $5 specials and bento deals
What to order: Premium sushi combo when they're cutting fresh bluefin tuna
Insider tip: The ramen broth is among Santa Monica's best — order half-size
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking on Pico and side streets, metered until 6pm weekdays. Small lot behind building shares with neighboring businesses.
Dress code: Casual neighborhood spot - jeans and t-shirt perfectly fine
Noise level: Quiet to moderate - easy conversation even when full
Weekend wait: 15-30 min without reservation, call ahead recommended
Weekday lunch: Typically seated immediately, rush at 12:30pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - extensive options including veggie rolls, tempura, tofu dishes, and Korean bibimbap
Vegan options: Limited - vegetable rolls (ask for no mayo), edamame, miso soup, avocado hand rolls
Gluten-free options: Partial - sashimi and some rice bowls work, but shared fryer for tempura, gluten-free soy available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual early dates - cozy booths, quiet enough to talk, and the diverse menu handles different preferences. Skip if you want upscale ambiance or cocktail program.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch and early dinner (before 6pm) you'll get seated. Friday/Saturday dinner after 7pm, expect 20-30 min wait or call ahead. They don't take OpenTable - phone only.
Is it kid-friendly? Very - high chairs available, kids love the chicken katsu and California rolls, crayons provided. Booths work well for families. Gets busy with families 5:30-7pm weekends.
What if someone in my group doesn't like sushi? Perfect spot - the ramen, katsu curry, teriyaki, and Korean dishes are all strong. Non-sushi eaters actually have more options than sushi purists.
Is the omakase worth it? Yes at this price point ($40-50 range) - you'll get 8-10 pieces including premium cuts when available. Order it if you see bluefin or hamachi belly on the specials board.
Best For
Better for: Groups with mixed preferences (sushi + ramen + Korean), families wanting quality without pretension, regulars seeking consistent neighborhood Japanese that doesn't break the bank
Skip if: You want modern sushi bar experience with sake pairings, need craft cocktails, or want Instagram-worthy plating - this is about solid execution over presentation
Miyako Restaurant
7.9
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Business Lunch Power Players
Happy Hour Hotspots
Hidden Gems Heaven
Woman-owned neighborhood sushi spot delivering reliable Japanese comfort for 20 years with approachable omakase and family-friendly bento boxes. The cozy izakaya atmosphere attracts regulars who appreciate fresh fish at reasonable prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef's Omakase, Chicken Katsu, Premium Sushi Combo
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Community fixture for 20 years with woman-owned warmth
Who should go: Families, neighborhood regulars, value-conscious sushi lovers
When to visit: Weekday lunch specials offer best value
What to order: 2-item bento box, omakase, jalapeno bomb roll
Insider tip: Ask about daily bluefin tuna cutting - spectacular when available