a restaurant devoted entirely to savory Japanese pancakes
Must-try: Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, Noodle-layered pancakes, Toppings bar
📍 2119 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Kyoto transplant devoted entirely to katsu, with a signature A5 wagyu seared tableside
Must-try: A5 wagyu katsu, Pork katsu set
📍 2006 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
curry-based bowls that stand apart from everything else on the block
Must-try: Japanese curry ramen, Keema dry curry noodles, Soft egg
📍 2012 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Yakitori grillhouse with two giant grills enveloped in smoke and rotating board specials
Must-try: Yakitori skewers, Pork loin with shiso, Grilled onigiri
📍 11330 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Sawtelle's tsukemen obsession — Tokyo-trained ramen masters serving a dipping noodle that Angelenos will wait an hour for
Must-try: Tsukemen (dipping noodles), Kotteri ramen, Crab dipping noodles (seasonal)
📍 2057 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
the undisputed star of Sawtelle, and the line outside says so
Must-try: Tsukemen, Tonkotsu ramen, Chashu
📍 2057 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
an eight-seat kappo counter with no menu and a Tokyo-trained chef
Must-try: Poached eggplant, Snow crab, Charred chicken hearts
📍 2130 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
a tiny window turning out panko-crusted fried chicken several ways
Must-try: Japanese fried chicken, Karaage curry combo, Fried chicken burger
📍 11270 La Grange Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90025