"Semi-hidden in a remodeled strip mall, this causal Echo Park izakaya from the Shibumi chef specializes in Osaka-style kushikatsu, or deep-fried things on sticks. If you're coming here pre- or post-game, we suggest getting the $20 set with five skewers and raw veggies, adding a small or two like spicy cold tofu and beef tendon stew, then saving the rest of your budget for Kushiba’s best items: the cocktails. You can usually expect fun drink specials around game time, too." - sylvio martins, nikko duren