Tsubaki

Tucked away on a quiet Echo Park street, Tsubaki occupies a charming half-indoor, half-outdoor space right next to its sibling sake bar Ototo. This izakaya has cultivated an atmosphere that feels both cozy and refined—think large windows overlooking the street, counter seating, communal tables, and pretty benches along exposed brick walls. It’s the kind of place designed for intimate conversations and memorable meals.

The menu here showcases some of the finest Japanese cooking in Los Angeles. While yakitori takes center stage with offerings ranging from chicken wings to blue prawns in butter, the real stars are the other dishes. The kani chahan is legendary—a mound of garlic fried rice studded with generous chunks of Dungeness crab that tastes deceptively simple yet impossible to replicate at home. The Japanese caesar salad is another revelation, featuring farm-fresh lettuce dressed in miso with panko crunch and a whisper of smoke from bonito flakes. And the kamo seiro delivers a beautiful hot-and-cold contrast with chilled soba noodles and warm duck.

Dining at Tsubaki is an investment—expect to spend around $100 per person after a few rounds of sake from their extensive booklet of options. But there’s a deftness and skill level here that justifies every dollar. The portions are deliberately modest, designed for sharing between one or two people, which encourages exploration across the menu. The knowledgeable staff is happy to guide you through the sake selection and help craft your ideal meal.

Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, catching up with a close friend, or simply craving exceptional Japanese food, Tsubaki delivers. Just know that seating is limited and reservations are essential. For those who prefer fresh air, there’s outdoor seating in a parklet along Sunset Boulevard—not the most intimate setting, but perfect for a casual bite and drinks on a warm evening.