Any insider tips for Tsujita LA Artisan Noodle?

Ask for broth-wari at the end to turn dip into soup.

What should I order at Tsujita LA Artisan Noodle?

Chashu tsukemen, spicy tsukemen, extra ajitama egg.

When should I visit Tsujita LA Artisan Noodle?

Weekday lunch to dodge the longest waits.

Who should go to Tsujita LA Artisan Noodle?

Tsukemen lovers and ramen purists.

Any insider tips for The Mulberry?

Start at the bar—Korean-ingredient cocktails are a quiet highlight.

What should I order at The Mulberry?

Tasting set, soy-garlic wings, short rib ssam.

When should I visit The Mulberry?

Weeknights or early weekend dinners.

Who should go to The Mulberry?

Food-forward diners and date-night crews.

Any insider tips for Nanbankan?

Sit at the back booths for quieter conversation.

What should I order at Nanbankan?

Negima, tsukune, shishito skewers.

When should I visit Nanbankan?

After 7pm for full yakitori lineup.

Who should go to Nanbankan?

Couples who like sharing small plates.

Any insider tips for Hermanito?

Sit near the open-air bar for the full vibe.

When should I visit Hermanito?

Late afternoon for happy hour into dinner.

Who should go to Hermanito?

Brunch crews and margarita fans.

Best Romantic Restaurants in Sawtelle Japantown (90025)

4 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated

Notable Picks

#1 Tsujita LA Artisan Noodle

8.8

$$ Sawtelle Japantown

Vibes: Trendy Table Hotspots Solo Dining Sanctuaries Group Dining Gatherings Late Night Legends

Sawtelle’s tsukemen standard-bearer, built around intensely reduced pork-and-fish dipping broth and springy house noodles. The bowl rewards patience (and a likely wait) with deep, smoky umami and precise noodles that stay snappy to the last dip. Go for the classic tsukemen first, then explore the richer, spicier variations.

Must-Try Dishes: Chashu Tsukemen, Spicy Tsukemen, Sunrise Vegan Ramen

What makes it special: LA’s defining tsukemen spot with a famously concentrated dipping broth.

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#2 The Mulberry

8.6

$$ Sawtelle Japantown

Vibes: Date Night Magic Trendy Table Hotspots Instagram Worthy Wonders

A new-school Korean American bistro on Sawtelle that pairs fine-dining technique with comforting, soulful flavors. The room feels like a warm Westside dinner party, and the kitchen leans into polished versions of favorites like fried chicken and jjigae with premium ingredients. Come for a date or celebratory night when you want Korean food with a contemporary LA edge.

Must-Try Dishes: Soy-garlic fried chicken, Char-grilled short rib ssam, Wagyu jjigae tasting set

What makes it special: Korean bistro cooking from a fine-dining pedigree in a Westside setting.

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#3 Nanbankan

8.4

$$$ Westgate

Vibes: Date Night Magic Late Night Legends Trendy Table Hotspots

A charcoal-scented yakitori hideaway with cozy booths and a softly buzzing bar that feels tailor-made for dates. Skewers arrive in a slow parade, perfect for sharing while sipping highballs or sake.

Must-Try Dishes: Chicken thigh yakitori (negima), Tsukune with egg yolk, Charcoal-grilled seasonal vegetables

What makes it special: Yakitori cooked over binchotan in a snug, candle-warm room.

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#4 Hermanito

8.1

$$$ Sawtelle Japantown

Vibes: Girls Night Out Approved Happy Hour Hotspots Brunch Bliss Spots Trendy Table Hotspots

A bar-forward Sawtelle spot that blends Mexican comfort with subtle Japanese neighborhood nods, anchored by excellent Sonoran-style tortillas. The cocktail program and weekend brunch make it feel like a hangout you can also take seriously for dinner.

Must-Try Dishes: Carnitas Tacos, Pescado Tacos, Buñuelos

What makes it special: Mexican cooking with Japanese-influenced cocktail and design cues.

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