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Izakaya Osen - Los Angeles
Master Critic Reviews (6 Lists)
Izakaya Osen - Los Angeles
8.4
Silver Lake's most photogenic izakaya transforms traditional sushi into edible art with gold leaf, black tobiko, and truffle oil presentations. Chef Damon Cho's Premium Sashimi Hashimori features 18 pieces arranged like a cornucopia, while the Miso Crab Salmon wrapped in truffle oil draws crowds with cameras ready.
Must-Try Dishes:
Premium Sashimi Hashimori, Truffle Toro Bowl, Miso Crab Salmon
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Gold leaf and caviar-topped presentations elevate traditional izakaya sushi into showstopping Instagram moments
Who should go: Food photographers and omakase enthusiasts seeking visual drama
When to visit: Dinner reservations essential; book weeks ahead via Yelp
What to order: Premium Chirashi for two, Truffle Toro Bowl, Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice
Insider tip: Request counter seating to watch chefs apply gold leaf and arrange elaborate presentations
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, moderately difficult after 7pm. Sunset Junction lot 2 blocks away $8 flat rate
Dress code: Elevated casual to dressy - Instagram-ready outfits encouraged, jeans fine if styled
Noise level: Lively but conversational - ambient izakaya energy without being overwhelming
Weekend wait: Reservations required, walk-ins rarely accommodated. Book 2-3 weeks ahead
Weekday lunch: Closed for lunch - dinner service only starting 5:30pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - 4-5 veggie rolls and vegetable tempura, but focus is clearly seafood-forward
Vegan options: Very limited - edamame, cucumber roll, vegetable tempura without egg batter (ask server)
Gluten-free options: Moderately accommodating - tamari available, but many signature dishes use tempura/crispy elements
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice if your date appreciates food as art and enjoys sharing plates. The visual drama creates natural conversation starters, counter seating adds intimacy, but the $$$$ price point ($80-120pp) signals serious intent. Better for 2nd-3rd dates unless budget isn't a concern.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Extremely unlikely on weekends. Weekdays, arrive right at 5:30pm opening or try the bar area (first-come basis). Calling day-of for cancellations is your best shot, but expect disappointment during peak times.
Is it kid-friendly? Not recommended for young children - intimate space, elevated atmosphere, and $30+ dishes aren't toddler-compatible. Teens who appreciate sushi and won't be disruptive are fine, especially at early seating times.
Best For
Better for: Choose Izakaya Osen when you want sushi that's as much about the visual experience as the taste - gold leaf, caviar accents, and chef theater justify the premium. Best for special occasions, Instagram content creation, or impressing out-of-town visitors who want 'LA omakase vibes' without traditional omakase formality.
Skip if: You prioritize value over presentation, want traditional omakase with chef interaction focus, need quick service, or are feeding picky eaters. For straightforward excellent sushi without the showmanship, Sugarfish or KazuNori nearby offer better value. For true high-end omakase, Sushi Note or Q commands similar prices with more culinary depth.
Izakaya Osen - Los Angeles
8.4
Chef Damon Cho's upscale izakaya sources premium seafood daily from Japan for omakase bowls, signature rolls, and kushiyaki. Traditional Japanese atmosphere with kimono-clad servers creates an elevated yet approachable lunch setting suitable for client meetings or team outings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro Uni Bowl, Premium Sashimi Omakase, Yellowtail Jalapeño
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Daily fish imports from Japan and expansive omakase options at lunch price points
Who should go: Professionals seeking impressive sushi without evening commitment
When to visit: Weekday lunch 12-2 PM for quieter atmosphere
What to order: Premium Sashimi Omakase, Toro Uni Bowl, any kushiyaki selection
Insider tip: Request a table over the bar for faster service during lunch rush
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, relatively easy during lunch hours but limited. Nearby public lot on Sunset Junction ($3/hour). Arrive 10 min early for important meetings.
Dress code: Business casual to smart casual - collared shirts and slacks ideal, blazers common but not required. Jeans acceptable if paired with dressy top.
Noise level: Moderate - traditional Japanese ambiance with soft music. Can comfortably discuss business without shouting, but not library-quiet.
Weekend wait: Not applicable - dinner service limited/by reservation
Weekday lunch: 10-15 min wait without reservation during peak (12:30-1:30pm), walk-ins usually seated immediately before noon or after 1:45pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetable kushiyaki, tofu dishes, vegetable tempura, and rice bowls available. About 6-8 options that aren't afterthoughts.
Vegan options: Limited - 3-4 options including vegetable kushiyaki and rice with pickles. Staff can modify some dishes but selection modest.
Gluten-free options: Challenging - soy sauce in most dishes, but can accommodate with tamari upon request. Limited menu but doable for pescatarians avoiding gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for first date - more business-oriented atmosphere with formal service. Better for 3rd+ date when you want to impress with sophistication rather than romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially for 2-person parties arriving before 12:30pm or after 1:45pm. Groups of 4+ should reserve. Friday lunch books up fastest.
Is it kid-friendly? Not recommended for young children - quiet, adult atmosphere and expensive menu. Teenagers 14+ who appreciate sushi would be fine for special occasions.
How long does lunch typically take? 45-60 minutes for standard service. Can request faster service if needed - inform server upfront and stick to bowls/rolls rather than omakase which requires more time.
Is it actually good for business meetings? Yes - subdued atmosphere, attentive service, tables spaced for privacy. Impressive enough for clients without being overly stuffy. Just avoid peak rush if discussing sensitive topics.
Best For
Better for: Choose Izakaya Osen when you want authentic Japanese premium quality in a business-appropriate setting without evening time commitment. Superior to mainstream lunch spots for fish quality and presentation. Better than downtown sushi for atmosphere and less corporate feel.
Skip if: Skip if you need guaranteed quick service under 30 minutes (go fast-casual instead), want romantic date ambiance (try dinner-focused spots), need extensive vegan options, or are on tight budget ($$$ pricing consistent). Also skip for large groups 8+ - space doesn't accommodate well.
Izakaya Osen - Los Angeles
8.4
Silver Lake's beloved izakaya serves thick-cut nigiri and specialty rolls alongside yakitori and hot pots. Chef Damon Cho sources premium fish directly from Japan, delivering restaurant-quality sushi in a traditional strip-mall setting with kimono-clad servers.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro Uni Bowl, Premium Chirashi, Osen Roll
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Premium Japanese fish flown in directly with generous portions at fair prices
Who should go: Sushi lovers seeking authentic quality without luxury pricing
When to visit: Weeknight dinner with reservations to avoid crowds
What to order: Toro Uni Bowl, Premium Chirashi for two, Sweet Shrimp nigiri
Insider tip: Make Yelp reservations early—this small space fills up fast
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking available in strip mall lot and surrounding streets—Silver Lake so arrive 10 minutes early to find a spot
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—jeans and a nice top work perfectly for the low-key izakaya vibe
Noise level: Intimate and conversational—traditional Japanese background music keeps the atmosphere calm enough to hear every word
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation Friday-Saturday—Yelp reservations strongly recommended
Weekday lunch: No lunch service—dinner only starting at 5:30pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable tempura, agedashi tofu, mushroom yakitori, and inari nigiri available
Vegan options: Limited—ask for veggie rolls without mayo-based sauces, vegetable yakitori, edamame
Gluten-free options: Challenging—soy sauce used throughout, but can accommodate with tamari by request for sashimi and nigiri
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice—intimate lighting, quiet enough to actually talk, and the impressive fish quality gives you something to bond over without breaking the bank
Can I get a table without a reservation? Not recommended on weekends—the small space fills up by 6:30pm. Weeknights before 6:30pm you might squeeze in at the bar, but Yelp reservations are free and guarantee you a table
Is it kid-friendly? Better for older kids (10+) who appreciate sushi—intimate space and premium pricing make it less ideal for younger children, though they're welcome
How does the quality compare to downtown sushi spots? Same direct-from-Japan fish sourcing as places charging 50% more—you're paying for the fish, not the Westside rent
What's the best time to see Chef Damon? Weeknights when it's less slammed—he's often working the sushi bar and happy to recommend seasonal catches
Best For
Better for: Quality-to-price ratio on premium fish—thick-cut nigiri and direct Japan sourcing without the luxury restaurant markup. Perfect for sushi enthusiasts who care more about what's on the plate than white tablecloths
Skip if: You want a modern omakase experience or trendy fusion rolls—this is traditional izakaya style with classic preparations. Also skip if you need guaranteed walk-in seating on weekends
Izakaya Osen - Los Angeles
8.3
This traditional sushi bar and izakaya has anchored Silver Lake since 2017, serving fresh sashimi, creative rolls like the signature Osen Roll, and izakaya favorites including beef tongue and creamy Nagasaki udon. The lively atmosphere and extensive menu make it a neighborhood favorite for both lunch and dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Osen Roll, Premium Chirashi, Truffle Toro Bowl
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Extensive menu blending traditional sushi with innovative izakaya dishes since 2017
Who should go: Families, groups, and sushi lovers seeking variety
When to visit: Lunch specials weekdays, happy hour, or weekend dinner
What to order: Osen roll, premium chirashi, truffle toro bowl, beef tongue
Insider tip: Open for both lunch and dinner with outdoor seating available
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available but competitive - arrive 10-15 min early. Sunset Junction lot 2 blocks away ($5 flat rate after 5pm)
Dress code: Casual comfortable - jeans and t-shirt totally fine, locals come straight from work
Noise level: Lively but conversational - can hear your table but expect energetic izakaya atmosphere
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation (6-8pm peak), bar seating usually available
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait - walk-ins typically seated within 5-10 min
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetable tempura, edamame, avocado rolls, and veggie udon options throughout menu
Vegan options: Limited - ask for veggie rolls without mayo/cream cheese, vegetable tempura, edamame
Gluten-free options: Challenging - soy sauce in most dishes, but sashimi and some grilled items work (confirm with server)
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual-comfortable first dates - the lively atmosphere takes pressure off awkward silences and sharing plates encourages interaction. Skip if you want intimate/romantic - noise level makes deep conversation harder.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch and early dinner (before 6pm) usually fine as walk-in. Weekend dinners book up - either reserve ahead or try bar seating which seats walk-ins. Thursday-Saturday after 7pm expect 30-45 min wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly - California rolls, chicken teriyaki, udon noodles appeal to kids. High chairs available. Best for kids 5+ who can handle chopsticks or finger foods. Avoid prime dinner rush if kids get restless waiting.
Good for large groups? Excellent for groups 4-8 people - izakaya format designed for sharing. Can accommodate up to 10-12 with advance notice. Order variety of rolls and small plates to pass around family-style.
How does happy hour work? Daily 5-7pm with discounted select rolls, appetizers, and drinks. Still quality fish, not leftover lunch cuts. Best value for trying multiple items without breaking budget.
Best For
Better for: Groups wanting variety beyond sushi (izakaya menu shines), families needing approachable options, lunch crowd seeking quality without fuss. More neighborhood casual than trendy scene - you come for food not Instagram moments.
Skip if: You want omakase/chef's choice experience (this is order-what-you-want), romantic date needing quiet intimacy, or cutting-edge modern Japanese. For pure sushi artistry, try Sushi Note; for date-night ambiance, go Hayato.
Izakaya Osen - Los Angeles
8.3
Lively izakaya brings authentic Japanese pub culture to Silver Lake with smoky yakitori, fresh sushi, and donburi bowls. Wood-paneled dining room and traditional service create an immersive experience despite the strip mall location, with daily fish deliveries from Japan ensuring quality across both cooked and raw preparations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro Uni Bowl, Tuna Crispy Rice, Kushiyaki Selection
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Comprehensive izakaya menu balancing yakitori, hot plates, and premium sushi
Who should go: Groups wanting variety beyond just sushi rolls
When to visit: Reservations essential for dinner; lunch offers better availability
What to order: Omakase options, yakitori, toro uni bowl for sharing
Insider tip: Sister restaurant Omakase by Osen nearby focuses purely on sushi
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Strip mall lot with 20+ spaces, usually available. Street parking on Sunset easier after 8pm.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual - jeans and nice top work, but you'll see some dressed up
Noise level: Lively but manageable - can hold conversation without raising voice
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation after 7pm, book ahead
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually seated within 10-15 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetable yakitori, tempura, several rice bowls, plus veggie sushi rolls
Vegan options: Limited - 3-4 options including vegetable yakitori and edamame, ask about dashi
Gluten-free options: Challenging - soy sauce in most dishes, but sashimi and some grilled items work
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - intimate booths, dim lighting, and shareable small plates create natural conversation flow. The varied menu gives you both something to talk about. Reserve a booth if possible.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Hit or miss. Weekday lunch is safe. For dinner, arrive right at 5:30pm or after 9pm for best walk-in odds. Bar seating usually available but limited to 8 seats.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for teens and tweens than young kids. No kids menu, but teriyaki chicken and donburi bowls work. Tight seating and lively atmosphere aren't ideal for toddlers. Lunch is calmer than dinner.
How much should I budget per person? $45-65 with drinks. Share 4-5 small plates plus a bowl or sushi for two people. Sake and cocktails run $12-16. Omakase jumps to $85-110 per person.
Is the sushi actually good here? Yes - daily fish deliveries from Japan and skilled prep. Not Omakase by Osen level next door, but legitimately high-quality for an izakaya. The toro uni bowl showcases their fish sourcing.
Best For
Better for: Groups wanting variety beyond sushi - yakitori and hot plates give non-raw options while maintaining quality. Also better for the full izakaya experience versus sushi-only spots. More accessible price point than pure omakase.
Skip if: You only want sushi (go to Omakase by Osen next door). You need quiet conversation (Shibumi is calmer). You want adventurous/experimental Japanese (try n/naka). You're vegetarian/vegan focused (limited options here).
Izakaya Osen - Los Angeles
8.2
Established izakaya since 2017 with traditional wood-paneled interior and yakitori smoke filling the air like an authentic Japanese tavern. Beyond the kushiyaki skewers, the sushi program offers fresh fish across multiple omakase tiers and extensive a la carte options, making it Silver Lake's go-to for Japanese pub dining.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sushi Omakase, Osen Roll, Spicy Tuna on Crispy Rice
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Authentic izakaya atmosphere blending traditional yakitori grills with premium sushi offerings under one roof
Who should go: Groups, late-night diners, those wanting variety beyond sushi
When to visit: Lunch weekdays noon-10pm, open till 11pm weekends
What to order: Sushi omakase, kushiyaki beef skewers, premium chirashi bowl
Insider tip: Semi-private rooms available for events; arrive early on weekends for shorter waits
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - moderately difficult, easier before 7pm. Sunset Junction lot 2 blocks away.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual - jeans fine, but locals tend dressy-casual
Noise level: Lively izakaya buzz - conversation possible but not quiet, louder near the bar
Weekend wait: 45-75 min without reservation after 7pm, book ahead strongly recommended
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, walk-ins usually seated within 10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetable kushiyaki, tofu dishes, veggie tempura, inari sushi
Vegan options: Limited - 3-4 options including edamame, cucumber rolls, vegetable skewers (request no butter)
Gluten-free options: Challenging - tamari available but cross-contamination risk high with shared fryers and grills
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Solid choice if you both like Japanese food - lively atmosphere takes pressure off conversation, sharing small plates is natural, but noise level means it's better for 2nd/3rd dates than getting-to-know-you firsts
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunches and early dinners (before 6:30pm) you'll likely get seated. Weekend dinners are risky - call ahead or expect 45+ min waits. Bar seating is first-come and turns faster.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids (8+) who eat adventurously - chicken skewers and teriyaki are safe bets. Noise level works in your favor. Not ideal for toddlers due to tight seating and hot grills tableside.
How does the omakase compare to dedicated sushi spots? Multiple tiers ($55-95) offer solid quality but won't match pure sushi-ya precision. Best value is treating this as an izakaya with excellent sushi options rather than omakase destination.
What's the best way to experience this place? Come with 3-4 people, mix sushi and yakitori orders, sit at the bar if possible to watch the action, order progressively throughout the evening Japanese-style rather than all at once
Best For
Better for: Groups wanting variety beyond just sushi, late-night dining past 10pm, authentic izakaya vibe with yakitori smoke and Japanese pub energy, value-conscious diners wanting quality fish without elite sushi-ya pricing
Skip if: You want quiet conversation or romantic intimacy, seeking LA's absolute best omakase experience, need extensive vegan options, traveling with young children under 7