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ZipPicks Awards
Best Japanese in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Chinchikurin
7.8
A Hiroshima-born chain that builds okonomiyaki the traditional layered way—crepes, shredded cabbage, and crispy yakisoba noodles pressed on teppan grills built into every table. The format works well for groups who want to eat hands-on in Little Tokyo without navigating a complicated menu. Expect a loud, energetic room where the sizzle of the grill is part of the draw, not a distraction.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chinchikurinyaki Okonomiyaki, B&C Okonomiyaki (Basil & Cheese), GOAM Okonomiyaki (Green Onion & Mayo)
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Hiroshima-born okonomiyaki chain where layered crepes, crispy noodles, and cabbage are cooked on teppan warming tables built into every seat.
Who should go: Groups craving interactive teppan-side dining in Little Tokyo
When to visit: Weekday lunch avoids weekend Little Tokyo crowds; closed Tuesdays
What to order: Start with the signature Chinchikurinyaki for the beef shibouriyaki experience, then split a GOAM or B&C for contrast — add a Tantan Men if your group wants noodles.
Insider tip: The Oko Rice swaps noodles for rice with a gluten-free batter — one of the few GF okonomiyaki options in LA.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No on-site lot—use the Japanese Village Plaza garage nearby (restaurant validates). Street parking is tight in Little Tokyo, especially weekends.
Noise level: Lively and noisy—open teppan grills, bustling service, expect to raise your voice. Not a quiet conversation spot.
Weekend wait: 15–20 minute wait typical on Saturdays; they use a text-you-when-ready waitlist so you can walk Little Tokyo while you wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yasaiyaki is their dedicated vegan okonomiyaki (no egg, no meat) with udon noodle option—works for vegetarians too. Can also request other items without pork.
Vegan options: Yasaiyaki—explicitly listed as vegan on their official menu, made without egg or meat, with noodle options.
Gluten-free options: Oko-Rice uses rice instead of noodles and rice-powder batter with a dedicated sauce, labeled gluten-free on their official menu.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, for a fun and casual first date — not a candlelit romance spot. The vibrant wall art, teppan warming tables at each seat, and interactive Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki give you a built-in conversation starter. Noise level is moderate-casual, and the cozy 70-seat space has a warm, trendy energy. Best for a date where you want personality over formality.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunches are generally walkable, but evenings and weekends in Little Tokyo get busy — book at least a couple days ahead for Friday or Saturday dinner. The restaurant accepts reservations and it's worth using them, especially for prime teppan table spots. Closed Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the casual, lively atmosphere is very forgiving for families. Kids tend to love the Sweet Corn okonomiyaki with melted cheese and Japanese mayo. The teppan hot plates at the table add a fun visual element that keeps younger diners entertained. Best for kids who are open to trying Japanese-style dishes. The space is wheelchair accessible and easy to navigate with strollers.
Is it good for groups? Yes — this is one of its strengths. The 70-seat dining room with teppan warming tables makes group meals interactive and social. The shareable okonomiyaki format works naturally for parties. Groups of 6+ should reserve a few days in advance, especially on weekends. For very large parties, call ahead at 213-626-0480 to confirm seating arrangements.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — outdoor tables are available and the space is dog-friendly. Specific details on coverage or heating are not confirmed online — call ahead if weather is a concern or if you specifically need an outdoor table reserved.
Best For
Better for: Groups who want interactive dining—70 seats with teppan warming tables at each spot, shareable okonomiyaki cooked in front of you, and vibrant wall art that photographs well.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a quiet date night or need quick service—it runs loud with open grills, and weekend waits are common.
Hours
Monday11:30am - 4pm, 5pm - 9pm
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday11:30am - 4pm, 5pm - 9pm
Thursday11:30am - 4pm, 5pm - 9pm
Friday11:30am - 4pm, 5pm - 10pm
Saturday11:30am - 4pm, 5pm - 10pm
Sunday11:30am - 4pm, 5pm - 9pm