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Master Critic Review
Torigoya
7.7
A dedicated yakitori counter in Little Tokyo's Weller Court where skewers are grilled over binchotan charcoal using free-range Jidori chicken, continuing the tradition of the former Kokekokko. The intimate bar seating puts you close to the grill action, making it a natural fit for solo visits or small groups willing to wait for a seat on busy nights. Execution leans reliable rather than revelatory—most skewer sets deliver, though the occasional miss keeps it from reaching the top tier of LA's yakitori scene.
Must-Try Dishes:
10-Skewer Yakitori Set, Oyakodon, Tsukune (Chicken Meatballs)
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.2
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Intimate yakitori counter in Little Tokyo where every skewer is grilled over imported Japanese charcoal by trained chefs who treat each cut of the bird with precision.
Who should go: Solo diners and yakitori devotees craving authentic Tokyo-style grilling
When to visit: Weeknights with a reservation; walk-ins face long waits
What to order: Start with the 10-skewer set to taste your way through the bird, then add an oyakodon or soboro bowl to finish — the set includes thigh, wings, meatballs, heart, and gizzard.
Insider tip: Ask for the special yuzu sauce on the side with your skewers — it's not offered by default but regulars know to request it.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Located on the 2nd floor of Weller Court—use the Weller Court underground structure. Parking validation is no longer offered post-pandemic, so expect to pay for the garage. Street parking in Little Tokyo is tough on weekends.
Weekend wait: Expect significant waits without a reservation—reviewers report 45 min to nearly 2 hours on busy nights. Arrive right at 6pm open or book ahead.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited—menu lists a few veggie skewers (eggplant, shishito peppers) and rice dishes, but this is a chicken-focused yakitori restaurant. Not a good pick if vegetables are the main event.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — this is a strong first date pick. The intimate izakaya atmosphere, counter seating where you can watch yakitori grilled over binchotan charcoal, and cozy second-floor setting in Weller Court create natural conversation starters. Noise level is moderate enough for easy conversation. The shared-plate format (skewer sets, small dishes) keeps things interactive. Request counter seats for the full experience — watching the chef work is a built-in icebreaker.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are possible on weeknights but not guaranteed — the space is small and dinner-only (opens at 6 PM). Weekends, especially between 7–9 PM, book at least a few days ahead. Reservations can be made by phone or online. Note: the cooking style is slow and unhurried, so plan for a leisurely meal, not a quick bite.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children. The menu is yakitori-focused — grilled chicken parts including liver, heart, and gizzard — with no dedicated kids menu confirmed. Evening-only hours (6 PM+) and the intimate izakaya atmosphere skew adult. Older teens who enjoy Japanese food and can handle a slower-paced meal would be fine. For younger kids, call ahead to confirm accommodations.
Is it good for groups? Yes — private dining is available for up to 20 people, making it a solid option for group dinners and celebrations. The shared yakitori format works naturally for groups. For parties over 6, call ahead to arrange seating. The communal, izakaya-style vibe suits group energy well.
Is there outdoor seating? Not confirmed — the restaurant is on the 2nd floor of the Weller Court shopping complex, which limits traditional outdoor seating. Some reports mention outdoor dining availability, possibly in an adjacent courtyard area, but details on coverage and heating are not specified online. Call to confirm current outdoor seating options.
Best For
Better for: Solo counter dining over charcoal yakitori in an intimate, hidden 2nd-floor setting that stays open until 11pm on weekends—a genuine Little Tokyo hidden gem.
Consider Alternatives If: You don't eat chicken. The menu is built almost entirely around yakitori; vegetable options are minimal sides, not standalone meals.
Hours
Monday6pm - 10pm
Tuesday6pm - 10pm
Wednesday6pm - 10pm
Thursday6pm - 10pm
Friday6pm - 10pm
Saturday6pm - 10pm
SundayClosed