30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Japanese in LA Arts District
Best Seafood in LA Arts District
Best Sushi Rolls in LA Arts District
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in LA Arts District
Best Chef's Table Restaurants in LA Arts District
Master Critic Review
YESS Restaurant
8.1
Progressive Japanese izakaya in a 1920s Arts District bank building where binchotan charcoal and wood-fired cooking anchor the approach. The whole lobster katsu burger and Monk's chirashi carry the menu; the cooking runs minimalist and somewhat monastic—reviewers call it polarizing for those expecting conventional izakaya energy. NYT 50 best US restaurants and LA Times 101 recognition validate the concept.
Must-Try Dishes:
Monk's Chirashi, Whole Lobster Katsu Burger, Junya's Daily Sashimi
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Arts District izakaya with binchotan charcoal grilling and NYT top-50 recognition
Who should go: Creative Japanese food seekers and Arts District explorers
When to visit: Dinner reservations recommended; counter for solo dining
What to order: Share multiple small plates; the lobster katsu burger and eggplant dengaku are signatures
Insider tip: The eggplant dengaku converts vegetable skeptics—order it even if you think you won't like it
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Paid parking in adjacent lot on 7th St
Dress code: No formal code—smart casual recommended
Dietary Options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - described as magical for Valentine's Day. The historic 1920s bank building, wood-fired cooking, and long cypress counter create romance. Progressive Japanese cuisine from Chef Junya Yamasaki.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins welcome - counter seats are kept for walk-ins. Reservations open one month ahead on Resy. Open Wed-Sun only, lunch 12-2:30pm, dinner 6-9pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Limited - upscale tasting menu environment. The omakase (10 seats only) and refined atmosphere suit adults and older teens better. No kids menu mentioned.
Is it good for groups? Yes - private dining available for special occasions. The spacious dining room accommodates celebrations. Wheelchair accessible.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes - outdoor seating available, dog-friendly. Paid parking in adjacent lot on 7th St.
Best For
Better for: Japanese wood-fire cooking in historic 1920s bank building; walk-ins welcome at cypress counter
Hours
MondayClosed
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday6pm - 9pm
Thursday6pm - 9pm
Friday6pm - 9pm
Saturday6pm - 9pm
Sunday6pm - 9pm