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Best Japanese in Long Beach Best Sushi in Long Beach

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Tokyo Wako 7.8
Long Beach
Established teppanyaki theater combined with full sushi bar creates dual dining experiences under one roof. Theatrical chefs perform tableside while sushi artisans craft specialty rolls, making it ideal for celebrations and groups seeking entertainment with quality Japanese cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes: Garlic Edamame, Alaskan Roll, Hibachi Filet Mignon
Scores:
Value: 7.3 Service: 8.1 Consistency: 7.8 Food Quality: 7.9 Atmosphere: 8.3 Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Dual concept offering theatrical teppanyaki and quality sushi bar in single venue
Who should go: Families and groups celebrating special occasions with entertainment
When to visit: Dinner for full teppanyaki show experience
What to order: Teppanyaki with garlic fried rice, Alaskan Roll, edamame
Insider tip: Request Chef Edgar or Julio for most entertaining teppanyaki shows
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Self-parking in Pine Avenue garage $8 flat rate after 5pm, street meters $2/hr until 8pm, valet available at nearby hotels
Dress code: Casual comfortable - families in jeans common, though some dress up for celebrations
Noise level: Lively and theatrical - expect sizzling sounds, chef banter, and group energy at teppanyaki tables
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation for teppanyaki, sushi bar often has seats
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, walk-ins usually seated within 10-15 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetable teppanyaki plates, veggie rolls, tofu options, edamame
Vegan options: Limited - vegetable teppanyaki without butter, cucumber/avocado rolls (request no mayo)
Gluten-free options: Partial - grilled proteins and vegetables available, but cross-contamination risk on shared teppanyaki grill, tamari available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for 3rd-4th date when you know they enjoy lively environments. The communal teppanyaki seating and theatrical show creates fun shared experience but limits intimate conversation. Opt for sushi bar if you want more traditional date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sushi bar seating is walk-in friendly most nights. For teppanyaki, expect 60-90 minute waits Friday-Sunday dinner without reservation. Weekday lunches and early weeknight dinners (before 6pm) are easier. Call ahead to join waitlist.
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely kid-friendly - teppanyaki chefs engage children with tricks, onion volcanos, and tossed shrimp catches. Kids menu available. Best for ages 4+ who can sit through 60-minute show. High chairs provided.
How long does the teppanyaki experience take? Plan 75-90 minutes from seating to finish - includes waiting for full table (8-10 people), appetizers, theatrical cooking, and meal. Faster at sushi bar (45-60 minutes typical).
Can I just get sushi or do I have to do teppanyaki? Completely separate experiences - sushi bar operates independently with full menu of rolls, sashimi, and nigiri. No pressure to do teppanyaki. Sushi side is quieter and faster-paced.
Best For
Better for: Groups celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or graduations wanting entertainment with dinner. More interactive and theatrical than traditional Japanese restaurants, with skilled chefs who balance showmanship and food quality. Family-friendly atmosphere without feeling like Chuck E. Cheese.
Consider Alternatives If: You want quiet intimate dining, are in a rush, prefer solo dining, or seek cutting-edge modern Japanese cuisine. If the theater element doesn't appeal, traditional sushi bars like Sushi Kinoya or Azuma offer better food-focused experiences at similar price points.

Hours

Monday12pm - 2:30pm, 5pm - 9pm
Tuesday12pm - 2:30pm, 5pm - 9pm
Wednesday12pm - 2:30pm, 5pm - 9pm
Thursday12pm - 2:30pm, 5pm - 9pm
Friday12pm - 2:30pm, 5pm - 9pm
Saturday12pm - 9pm
Sunday12pm - 9pm