Hakata Izakaya HERO

The 38 Best Restaurants in Los Angeles | Eater LA

"Across Los Angeles, there are quality izakayas, or Japanese drinking dens, with no-fuss cooking and varied menus meant to pair with sake, crisp beer, and shochu. Hakata Izakaya Hero, located along Westwood Boulevard in West Los Angeles, offers some of the best Japanese this side of the Pacific, featuring dumpling-stuffed grilled chicken wings, tonkotsu ramen, and chicken karaage. The tiny kitchen helmed by chef and owner Hiro Chiya churns out sizzling plates of sliced wagyu beef, whose mesmerizing aroma permeates the small, boisterous dining room and turns heads with its ASMR sounds. Larger parties can share the specialty intestines hot pot called motsu nabe, a trademark of quality izakayas but a rarity stateside. While ramen tends to be an afterthought at most izakayas, the versions here, based on thick, milky tonkotsu broth, accurately reflect the style from Hakata, located near the southeastern tip of Japan. With thin, chewy wheat noodles and a stellar broth, it’s one of the best bowls of ramen in town. Be sure to try at least a few of the daily specials, like seasonal sashimi, written on a single sheet of paper and posted on the front door. — Matthew Kang, regional lead, Southern California/Southwest Know before you go: The tiny dining room fills up quickly so reservations are recommended, though tables are easier to secure early on Sundays and Mondays. Just call the restaurant after 5 p.m. to book a table." - Mona Holmes