27 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Ice Cream in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Somisomi
7.8
Vibes:
Sweet Treats Escapes
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Korean-style fish-shaped waffles made to order with creamy soft serve swirled on top—the signature 'upside-down ahboong' turns the taiyaki into an edible cone. The Little Tokyo outpost runs a steady counter operation that handles weekend crowds efficiently, with rotating seasonal flavors keeping regulars cycling back through.
Must-Try Dishes:
Taiyaki, Ube Soft Serve, Cookies and Cream
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Korean-style fish-shaped waffles filled to order with soft serve swirled on top
Who should go: Dessert lovers seeking photogenic Korean street sweets
When to visit: Weekday afternoons to avoid weekend Little Tokyo crowds
What to order: Get the taiyaki with your choice of filling, add ube soft serve on top
Insider tip: Ask for the filling to extend all the way to the tail
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No free parking—use the Little Tokyo Mall garage across the street at 319 E 2nd St or Joe's Auto Parks lots near Alameda. Street meters run $1.50-2/hr with 2-hour limits until 8pm.
Weekend wait: Expect long lines Saturday nights—the small shop gets packed but staff moves orders quickly via kiosk ordering system
Weekday lunch: Lines still form Wednesday nights but move quickly; arrive before peak hours for shorter waits
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—soft serve and taiyaki are vegetarian-friendly
Gluten-free options: Soft serve flavors are gluten-free (except Oreo); request a cup instead of the taiyaki cone to avoid gluten
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not for a traditional date, but fun as a casual dessert stop during a Little Tokyo date. This is a quick-service counter with outdoor seating - no intimate ambiance or table service. The Instagram-worthy fish-shaped cones make for playful photo ops and easy conversation while walking. Best as one stop on a larger date itinerary rather than the main event.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - this is walk-up counter service only, no reservations taken or needed. Lines form during peak hours (weekends, evenings) but move quickly due to efficient service. Expect a short wait on busy days, but rarely more than 10-15 minutes. Outdoor seating is first-come, first-served.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - this is a hit with kids. The colorful fish-shaped waffle cones, fun toppings like Fruity Pebbles and crushed Oreos, and soft-serve ice cream are designed to delight children. Casual outdoor seating means no worries about noise or mess. Quick service keeps antsy kids from getting restless. All ages welcome.
Is it good for groups? Yes for casual groups - everyone orders at the counter and grabs outdoor seating together. No reservations or private rooms available. Works fine for groups of any size who don't mind standing or finding their own seats outside. Great option for a group dessert stop while exploring Little Tokyo.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes - outdoor seating is the primary seating option at this location. Tables are available outside on a first-come basis. The adjacent Isamu Noguchi Plaza provides additional space to sit and enjoy your treat. No covered or heated areas specified - weather dependent.
Best For
Better for: Families with kids who want a colorful, Instagram-worthy treat—the unlimited free toppings and fish-shaped cones are a hit with children
Consider Alternatives If: You need seating—only three mini tables inside and limited space; not ideal if you want to linger
Hours
Monday12pm - 10:30pm
Tuesday12pm - 10:30pm
Wednesday12pm - 10:30pm
Thursday12pm - 10:30pm
Friday12pm - 11:30pm
Saturday12pm - 11:30pm
Sunday12pm - 10:30pm