"We like to think of Otafuku as a daytime spa, one that calms you with incredible housemade soba instead of hot stones on your back. Everything about this family-run spot in Gardena is soothing, from the handsome wood interior to the pleasant murmur of conversation in the dining room. If you come for lunch, order the set that combines hot or cold noodles with a side of their excellent tempura. At the meal's end, you’re given a pot of nutty, nutrient-rich tea that’s essentially the soba equivalent of pasta water, and a good excuse to linger a while longer." - brant cox, sylvio martins, cathy park, garrett snyder