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Koshiji
Master Critic Review
Koshiji
8.4
Koshiji is a cozy yakitori-focused izakaya on Hawthorne where skewers grill over binchotan in full view of the counter. South Bay regulars come for carefully seasoned chicken, offal, and vegetables, plus a solid list of sake and beer in a room that feels closer to Tokyo than a strip mall.
Must-Try Dishes:
Negima chicken thigh skewer, Tsukune chicken meatball skewer, Beef tongue skewer
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Binchotan-grilled yakitori with a cozy, transportive izakaya atmosphere.
Who should go: Yakitori fans and small groups wanting skewers and sake
When to visit: Prime-time evenings; reserve or arrive early for counter
What to order: Negima, tsukune, chicken skin and beef tongue skewers
Insider tip: Sit at the counter to watch the grill and order in small waves.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared surface-lot parking in the Southwood Riviera center; fills quickly during peak dinner hours, with limited nearby street parking.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but most diners lean slightly polished for date nights.
Noise level: Moderate; lively izakaya energy but still comfortable for conversation at the counter or tables.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for counter seating.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable; primarily a dinner-focused spot and generally easier to walk in on weeknights.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but present—grilled vegetables, rice dishes, and a few small plates.
Vegan options: Very limited; most items use tare sauces or animal-based broths.
Gluten-free options: Possible with care—some skewers are naturally gluten-free, but sauces and marinades may contain soy; ask for salt-only seasoning.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its intimate counter seating, glowing binchotan grill, and shareable skewers create a warm, conversational setting without feeling too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, but timing matters. Early evening walk-ins stand the best chance; peak dinner hours often require a wait, especially for counter seats.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—older kids who enjoy grilled skewers will do fine, but the compact room and adult-leaning izakaya atmosphere may not suit very young children.
Best For
Better for: One of the strongest options for authentic yakitori in the South Bay, with higher precision grilling and a more transportive izakaya vibe than broader-menu Japanese spots nearby.
Skip if: You want sushi, large entrées, or a wide menu—this is a focused yakitori house. Families with toddlers or diners needing extensive vegetarian or vegan options may prefer alternatives.