Otomisan Restaurant in Los Angeles - Phone Number, Reservations, Reviews

Food was tasty and fresh but definitely overpriced for the quantity and the quality. How is it possible to ask more than $17 for a dish ? The food was very basic, none of the ingredients used were expensive. This restaurant is the oldest Japanese restaurant in Los Angeles.

Seating is limited and It’s slightly cramped for larger persons. The food is great and so is the service.

Some of the best authentic Japanese food in LA. The tempura Udon & Curry are my favorite.

First the atmosphere: it's a cute, well put together little Japanese restaurant. Walls line with art and photos. You can read the history of the place as you eat. Dining tables and a bar to sit and enjoy a meal. Second, the food: impeccable food displayed on nice plates. Large chunks of fish in the sushi rolls. Spicy tuna and salmon roll had a smooth texture and world-class taste. I did not use soy sauce or because the fish was amazing by itself. This alone will bring me back. I ordered a combo with beef teriyaki and pork cutlet. The pork cutlet was succulent. Pick it up with chopsticks and marvel at the juiced flow. The crust had standalone flavor that I might use as a topping by itself if that were an option. The beef was cooked to perfection. The yeriyaki sauce had a unique taste to it. Came with soup and salad. Miso is a simple dish that this establishment has perfected. The salad was a standard side salad with ginger dressing. Great way to cleanse the palatte. Tempura was also served, and it was again a world-class dish. Fresh tasting veggies and two healthy shrimp. Lastly, the service:the older woman who was there was a gem, and this review is not about her. This review is about the young, inexperienced waitress. I don't think she has enough experience to be serving folks, so this may not be the best place for her to learn. This establishment is the longest running japanese restaurant in Los Angeles. That comes with a heavy burden. The young waitress was not warm or inviting. These two traits are set in stone within japanese culture. As the older woman tried coaching the younger, she younger woman gave dirty looks and rolled her eyes. She seemed uninterested and worse than that, unwilling to learn from her elder. I will be back at some point and hope to see how her journey is going. Overall, you will be satisfied here. Please come one and all to a modern marvel of japanese cuisine in the greater Los Angeles area.

Nothing fancy, home style historic Japanese restaurant. Very small and quant around four to five booths and around 6 seats and counter. Food is good and well prepared but very basic. Given the size and popularity expect a short wait. Service is pleasant and efficient. Lots of locals eat here. Street parking only.

I just don’t get the magic about this restaurant, we tried 3 times to get in for this mediocre dinner, the first 2 times the waiting is too long and they close at 8pm. I thought it must be good, but I was so wrong. The green tea and oolong tea and the natto it’s not even house made, they got them from supermarket—this is the first time in a Japanese restaurant I saw somebody take out bottle drinks from fridge and serve to us lmao. And for the salmon and spicy chicken bowl we ordered, it’s nothing special, like I can get them from anyother Japanese restaurant.the only thing I like about this restaurant maybe it’s the atmosphere, like a Japanese old house kitchen. I have to mention that this area is not a safe area, and I don’t think it worth the wait.

Absolutely love this place. LA history at its finest!

The rolls tasted very fresh My beef teriyaki combination was delightful. Beef udon was packed with flavor, it would’ve been perfect if it was raining! The noodles were very tender. The salmon rice bowl was delicious. The experience felt like you were in a traditional Japanese family owned restaurant. The owner greeted you and was attentive. Felt like you were in a city in Japan and not in LA.

People over hyped this place Customer service sucks Food was not what I expected I should've gone to KING TACO instead No disrespect

Nice place. I hope the owner can find a successor.

Very nice service. The food was average at best.

Quaint historic Mom n Pop open since 1956.Good food😋 in a small space 4 booths and counter service.They don’t accept reservations.Come early n be prepared to wait as they are almost always filled to capacity

Whenever I come down from the sgv; This is the place to go! Near a pretty dope bookstore on Cesar Chavez.

Great history and food. Very impressive tempura and curry, and of course the sashimi was super fresh. I do miss AOI, so the home estylen cooking here was a real rad treat. I loved it, we came pretty early and on a weekday as you must do because it gets filled up so fast!! So glad we made the effort because it had been on our list so long and it didn't disappoint

The tempura and beef udon were delicious the gyoza as well! The tempura udon was my favorite. We went pretty early, 10 minutes after the shop opened. It's very small, but the food is so delicious and the service and people are wonderful. The owner in particular is very kind and sweet! I'm happy I finally got to go after years of putting it on my list of food places I want to try.

I don't give it less than one star simply because it can't be done, the customer service was not good at all. THEY THROWN THE MENU AT ME AND WE WERE 2 PEOPLE. In addition, they looked at us badly, they honestly gave us to understand that they don't like people. dark skinned.

I was looking forward to eating at this place because I heard it's one of the most authentic Japanese restaurants. However, the customer service was so bad and made it disgusting to stay there. The minute we walked in, the waiter ignored us. They THREW 1 menu at us even though we were 2 and with such a disdain in her facial expression as if she hated us being in that place. I still wanted to give it to us a chance, but when another worker who was cooking came out. She paused and looked right at us with such a hateful look, which I don't understand because they were okay with all the other folks who had been there. But without even once talking to us, they already had biases and discrimination towards us. It was quite sad and upsettingm We ended up leaving and going to a restaurant at Little Tokyo which was a much more welcoming environment.

Katsudon is delicious. This is a restaurant where you can feel Japan.

Purely for charm and LA history, Otomisan is outstanding. The oldest continuously operating Japanese restaurant in the city, there's certainly a retro feel to this place that can't be replicated. Ever since a few well-received profiles (Vice, PBS, etc), Otomisan has experienced a burst in popularity. On Saturday, we arrived at 11:30am, which is when they opened, and already all three booths were taken. Our party of four sat at the counter, which honestly might have been the reason we had such swift service. The owner is SUPER nice and even though she was obviously totally overwhelmed with a long waiting list and a bunch of takeout orders, she handled everything with a smile and didn't rush anyone out. The food is exactly like what I had when I ate at my friends' parents' or grandparents' houses who were Japanese American, so this meal was a lovely hit of nostalgia. Highly recommend the katsu, teriyaki, tempura, edamame, and salmon roll.

It is a place with a lot of history but something small will take you some time to enter and be served since they only have one lady to charge, serve and attend to the front, not good if you are in a hurry.

Local institution. Coming in here is like traveling back in time. They have on ktla 5 most times. Chicken Udon is the truth. Chicken Karrage goes quickly. It's small. Maybe seats 10.

Place is very small and there's a wait to be served. No parking. Parking is available on the street.

Must try! Immediately my Favorite Japanese restaurant 😍

#LATEPOST from 01/22/2024: Took my sister and my mom here, due to the story behind this restaurant. It was opened since 1950s! It was raining, on Monday lunch hour when we get there. This place is so tiny! It was packed! 3 of 4 seaters booths & 4 stools for dine in customers and 2 groups (included ours), were waiting by the entrance door. While we were there, more people were coming and tried to come in for the food. But the lady "closed" the restaurant for a while because it was FULL! LOL This was a good sign! The lady owner was busy running around to cater to everyone. We were waiting for quite a while to be seated. We ordered Tonkatsu, Curried chicken katsu plate & spicy fried chicken bowl.. and 1 side of sweet potato croquettes. The prices were decent, portions were big! The taste of each meal was so authentic! We enjoyed our food & the authenticity of Japanese homey vibes! It's definitely worth the drive.. the wait and the entire experience!

The food was delicious but the waiting can be long so go as early as you can. Food was worth it, though.

This mom and pop restaurant is amazing! The staff is so welcoming and it feels like you’re in your mom’s kitchen. Protip: get there at 6 pm the latest and go inside to put your name on the list- or you won’t get in. The spicy tuna roll and tempera udon were 10/10

Incredible Japanese restaurant in Boyle Heights. Service is incredible, even when super busy Yayoo still has a warm smile and is very kind. Get there 10 mins early because there's usually a line and it's very small, only fits 15-20. The miso soup is warm food that tastes like it's healing the soul, and salmon rolls are delicious and affordable. Check it out, you won't regret it!

love this place, not open on xmas 2023

We had the potato croquettes, beef curry rice and chicken teriyaki entree -all so good. We got lucky and got a couple of spots at the counter pretty fast because another couple wanted to wait for a table. Not long after that there was a line because it's a small space. There's metered parking but we just parked on a side street. Cozy, not fancy, unpretentious, chill with good food. We'll be back.

Perfect. A time capsule and v delicious and authentic Japanese food. 10/10

Very warm environment and cozy. Makes you feel like you are at home waiting for mom to get super ready, waitress was very attentive and worked very hard. Everything was great, give it a try.

I love this place, the food was amazing!!! It feels like home as soon as I walked in. I can't wait to come here again!

The wait was well worth it.Very old school. Closes at 2 pm and reopens for dinner. Only three booths and five counter seats. Loved the atmosphere. Family owned and food was onolicious. The Nato was a real experience. Can't wait to go back and try some more dishes.

Otomisan is a cozy and historic restaurant. Everyone was so kind and our food was delicious!

First time at Otomisan with friends—amazing traditional Japanese food that transported us back to our initial visit to Japan 15 years ago. Nostalgia and flavors blended perfectly. A memorable experience!

Food it's great but the place it's a little old and dusty the person in charged is very nice 👌 👍 😊

Like going to a family run Japanese restaurant, Watanabè∼san is the owner waitress. Friendly, accommodating, she does her best, but be patient when the house is packed and orders are flying. The Tèmpura here is legendary...light, crisp, fried in fresh, sweet vegetable oil. Assorted Sashimi is subtly flavourful with healthful onega 3. TonkAtsu, breaded fried pork cutlet, reminds me of Schweine Schnitzel or Costoletta di Maiale Milanese. Small resto that seats at most 16 people so be prepared to wait during peak hours, but so worth it if you're a Japanese food aficionado. Street meter parkIng so set your alarm to remind yourself to feed the meter. Can not accommodate Wheel chairs...no room.

Astounding great prices and real food, healthy as well no processed food all real authentic heart felt assembled food. Forget panda this is the spot !

VERY TINY, GREAT FAMILY AUTHENTIC COOKED FOOD. VERY SWEET OWNER!

Otomisan in the heart of Boyle Heights on First near Soto offers great traditional Japanese dishes. The food is great here, but if you plan on eating there, or ordering by phone, make certain to arrive or call a minimum of 45 minutes prior to closing, or risk being turned away. The restaurant is opened from 11a.m. to 2p.m. and then again in the evening from 4:30p.m. to 8p.m. They are closed Sunday. The restaurant is small and the atmosphere resembles what the place looked decades ago. Two employees during operations, the cook and a hot/server/busser/cashier/dishwasher, all-in-one. So understand the nature of the service you will receive based on what the place can accommodate. Key takeaway: great food in a very historical setting.

last Japanese Restaurant in Boyle Heights

There is always a waiting time but the food was superb, home-cooked authentic Japanese cuisine - the subtle flavors are there. It's a timeless hole in the wall gem that only LA can deliver.

Beyond delicious and worth coming back The place is small and a bit uncomfortable Plenty of parking on the street.

Local neighborhood gem with excellent service, fresh ingredients, savory authentic cuisine, large portions, and affordable prices. If there is a line it is absolutely worth the wait.

Great local place for simple, delicious japanese food. The curry and tempura reminded me of my grandmother’s cooking. Also loved the wall art in the space.

This place has a very home style taste and nostalgia. It is a landmark and a staple of the Boyle Heights neighborhood. The food is delicious and I feel pretty authentic. Simple menu and very friendly owner. Can get very busy in a small space.

Disappointing food and certainly overpriced. You can get much better tasting similar food at a lower price in Little Tokyo. I hate to say, but we will not be going back.

Small place but big test and nice service.

Where do I begin??? This is cute, quaint and small business. The rolls were to perfection and fresh as can be... will never purchase store sushi again. Prices are reasonable for the quality. Udon was dee-lish (chef's kiss). Will return for more sushi and udon!!!

Best Japanese food in LA hands down .. such a sick spot .. almost don’t wanna review because I don’t wanna blow this secret spot up but gotta give the love .. get there early if u wanna get in … the salmon teriyaki is fire and the udon goes crazy :)))

A must for any foodie. Food was so delicious. Feels like your in Japan. Have to come back and try everything.

Great little restaurant. Grill mackerel seasoned just right and the meat was not dried. Only draw back is the wait.

the katsu curry and kastudon was so so good!! my whole family enjoyed it a lot and we plan on coming back

Place was awesome! Delicious food, fast, maybe Im wrong to say but it was the BEST authentic Japanese food Ive ever had. Felt homey and comfortable. Best little hole in the wall restaurant that survived the test of time

Authentic Japanese cuisine in the last remaining Japanese restaurant in Boyle Heights

I had about a 45 minute wait but it was worth it.

Small place but they have a good service and food. I went with my friends after 4pm we had to make a line for 10 minutes. They open at 4.30pm

This tiny little restaurant is nestled in Boyle Heights, it's small! chances are you will wait, but the food is delicious. It felt like we ate in a friend's home.

So worth the wait. Best beef teriyaki I’ve had in LA. Come right when it opens to make sure you get on the lunch list!

Thank you eater for introducing me to this gem of a location was worth the wait had great diner vibes the food was great.

Simply amazing. If you love Japanese food, this is where you need to be 🥰

Great little Japanese restaurant. And I mean little. 3 booths and 4 seats at the bar, BUT. The food is AMAZING!!! It’s ran by a couple from Japan. Super friendly, cozy, it feel like your in another time. Stop by when you can. And take the train. Parking is tight.

Udon and tempura always on point! Yum!

It is so small and so precious. Their curry is really amazing homemade Japanese curry and the rolls are super yummy too. Grilled fish plates are just like ones in Japan and I love how friendly they are.

Boyle Height Best!!! My family & friends All love our neighborhood Restaurant. GO Otomisan !!!

if you get the unagi rice bowl you will be happy like me

I was visiting Los Angeles and had heard about Otomisan and had the opportunity to visit for lunch. Everything was excellent and the tempura was the best that I've had in years. Yayoi is a gracious host and I can't wait to visit again. Arigatō!

Fantastic tiny little place. Can’t wait to go back!

Todo muy bien gracias les recomiendo visitarlo

Bless this place… This was one of the best food memories, I made visiting L.A. Welcomed by a sweet, friendly,heartwarming Ms. Watanabe. I got seated in this cute but small seat in front of her and presented by a warm cup of tea. I ordered 1 spicy salmon and a sashimi dish and an unagi bowl. Wow… So good . The fish taste so clean and fresh. The unagi was so well grilled with its char and a touch of the teriyaki sauce, sweet and savoury with the flavour profile of soy. This whole experience feels like you’re coming back from a long tough day and you getting served by a loving home cooked meal by your japanese mom. Would go to this restaurant often if not weekly if I could. 10/10.

Very tiny and quiet! Reminds me of the restaurants in Japan! Food was great and the service was too!

Came to the restaurant because of the YouTube I saw few weeks ago, first time arrived around 1:30 and they said they cannot accept more people, so we left. Today we came again, waited over an hour, got a tempura udon. There was no sauce for the tempura or the small fried flakes on the top of the noodle, it’s different from what I had before in Japan and in LA, I don’t know if this is normal. The food is neither very good nor bad, it’s lower than what I expected from the YouTube video, the price is a little high based on the food quality but probably low based on the location. Miso soup is good, cannot speak for the rest of the food…

Warm traditional, comforting Japanese food. I love this little spot and it's history. The tempura is fried to perfection, pork tonkatsu is tender. I love sitting at the bar. Owners are adorable.

An incredible, low-key, and authentic Japanese spot. The pork cutlet bowl is worth every penny. If you’re in the area, I’d definitely recommend!

The experience is worth the wait, but not a 1+ hour wait. Come on a weekday when lines are more thin.

Food was delicious and the atmosphere was perfect. Not pretentious, down to earth classic Japanese diner experience. Was a really special meal.

It’s a cute and cozy Japanese home cooking place. The menu is small but filled with classics. Honestly don’t expect the best food ever, expect a quaint Japanese spot run by a lady with passion and heart warming food

opened 1956 ? wak ! ima hafta go next time I'm in LA - hope it stays awhile longer !

Nice place to eat the food is good, just the sitting is a bit small for "big" people.

True japanese food at home and family oriented ❤️🇯🇵

Amazing hole in the wall spot. Ordered the teriyaki bowl and shrimp sushi roll and man. I'm a local so I'll continue to update as I try different plates. Must visit if you like Japanese food

I'm a family friend of the owners and this is the place to go for an at home atmosphere dining experience. The food is excellent, and the people are nice. The restaurant is tight so be prepared to wait if there's a crowd. Well worth the wait though.

The side makes you feel cozy and the food makes you feel at home.

The best tempura I've had in ages. Everything reminded me of the Japanese restaurants my grandparents took me to when I was little.

Rica comida para los gustos los colores

Super tiny inside. Better to go, however super good spicy tuna rolls and dinner combos. Parking my be slight issue.

food was great the best Japanese food i had

Cozy Japanese restaurant with a delicious selection of food.

Tempura and sashimi was perfect!

2nd time eating at this oldest continuously operating Japanese restaurant in the City of Los Angeles. Otomisan Restaurant is located on 1st Street in the Boyle Heights area of Los Angeles. First time I came here I tried the beef udon 🍜 bowl, it tasted great and I enjoyed my meal. The second time I went I tried their combo options and got the spicy tuna 🍣 rolls and beef teriyaki, it was very good, it came with miso soup, bowl of rice and salad. The smell of their curry is very good, I need to try their curry next time! Friendly and good customer service!! 👍👍

Get the Saba Shio, it's delicious

Miren la cosa es así: El local es diminuto y desvencijado, parece hasta abandonado. Solo tiene tres mesas y una barra así que no pueden atender muchos clientes a la vez. El vecindario puede poner nervioso a los que no conocen así que sugiero ir apenas abren. Ahora sí lo importante: la comida. Auténtica y deliciosa. Todo es sobresaliente, sabor, tamaño y atención. Vale mucho la pena la visita.

Finally a place to get affordable and delicious Japanese food. They serve pretty any Japanese food craving you could have. All of it fresh and delicious. Can’t wait to go again.

Outstanding and authentic. It has such a cozy feel with delicious food. Definately an experience worth multiple visits

It’s like stepping back into history. Saw this restaurant on tiktok and decided to give it a try. I’m so glad I did as the food was amazing, I got the Tonkatsu curry. The family that runs the shop are so sweet and friendly and along with the patrons as well.

Old style family Japanese Am dishes. Throwback to the 60s. Even their interior takes you back. If you wish to know what Japanese food was like pre- sushi, pre- ramen boom, then come here.

I've lived in the area most my life and only recently found this place a few years ago, I wish I had found it a lot sooner. Delicious home made style authentic Japanese food with many familiar dishes like rice bowls, sushi, and entrées such as chicken/beef teriyaki, pork cutlet, sashimi and a good variety of salads. My go to is typically their Katsudon bowl (pork cutlet rice bowl). Fell in love with the food here on my first visit and have continued to support this great local business as its been here for years and hope its still here for many more.

Highly recommend the salmon sashimi rice bowl and pork cutlet. This restaurant is truly a hole in the wall in Boyle Heights but I feel like I’m in Little Tokyo.

Really good, low-profile food Come visit

I love this place and history of it! It felt like going back in town. Boyle heights has so much amazing history with this fantastic hole in the wall that has been here over 50 years. They have seen all the change and the owner was so sweet! Their curry tonkotsu was pretty good! Sashimi plate was good but not great! I would come back to try other things next time.