KAMINARI GYOZA BAR
Dumpling restaurant · Historic Core ·

KAMINARI GYOZA BAR

Dumpling restaurant · Historic Core ·

Utsunomiya-style gyoza, bento boxes, and beer served

gyoza
pan-fried gyoza
friendly service
bento box
deep-fried gyoza
pork gyoza
shrimp gyoza
soup
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by Mastro's
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by Mastro's
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by Kaminari Gyoza
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR by null

Information

323 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Get directions

$10–20

Order delivery
See Menu
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Cozy
Trendy
Good for solo dining

Information

Static Map

323 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Get directions

+1 213 265 7351
linktr.ee
@kaminarigyozabar

$10–20 · Menu

Features

•Popular for lunch
•Popular for dinner
•Cozy
•Trendy
•Good for solo dining
•Touristy
•Comfort food
•Credit card accepted

Last updated

Dec 29, 2025

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@infatuation
132,805 Postcards · 3,235 Cities

The 18 Best Restaurants & Bars In Little Tokyo - Los Angeles - The Infatuation

"Kaminari specializes in Utsunomiya-style gyoza, a pan-fried dumpling that uses a paper-thin wrapper. In Japan, Utsunomiya is a town known for gyoza paired with experimental and non-traditional ingredients, so don’t be surprised to see bentos made with spaghetti, breakfast potatoes, and cilantro dipping sauces at this Little Tokyo shop. Choose between chicken, pork, shrimp, or vegetable gyoza, prepared either pan-fried, deep-fried, or boiled (we like the pan-fried best). Order as a six-piece set or add them to that chaotically good bento combo above, either for a quick lunch or a secret snack away from the office." - cathy park, brant cox

https://www.theinfatuation.com/los-angeles/guides/where-to-eat-and-drink-in-little-tokyo
Mastro's
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR
@eater
391,482 Postcards · 10,994 Cities

The Best Restaurants to Try in LA’s Little Tokyo | Eater LA

"This Utsunomiya-style gyoza spot in Little Tokyo feels right at home in the historically Japanese American neighborhood serving golden brown pan-fried, deep-fried, or boiled dumplings. Choose between shrimp, pork, chicken, or a plant-based filling, then add on sides, or order a bento which comes with rice and pickles." - Kimberly Madrid

https://la.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-los-angeles-little-tokyo-japanese
Kaminari Gyoza
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR
@eater
391,482 Postcards · 10,994 Cities

Under-the-Radar Restaurants to Check Out in Los Angeles | Eater LA

"This Little Tokyo spot puts delicate Utsunomiya-style gyozas front and center, offering fillings of pork, shrimp, chicken, and Impossible pork prepared pan-fried, deep-fried, or boiled in a soup." - Cathy Chaplin

https://la.eater.com/2022/1/5/22867185/new-restaurants-los-angeles-openings-2022
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR
@infatuation
132,805 Postcards · 3,235 Cities

Kaminari Gyoza - Review - Little Tokyo - Los Angeles - The Infatuation

"Kaminari specializes in Utsunomiya-style gyoza, a pan-fried dumpling that uses a paper-thin wrapper. In Japan, Utsunomiya is a town known for gyoza paired with experimental and non-traditional ingredients, so don’t be surprised to see bentos made with spaghetti, breakfast potatoes, and cilantro dipping sauces at this Little Tokyo shop. Choose between chicken, pork, shrimp, or vegetable gyoza, prepared either pan-fried, deep-fried, or boiled (we like the pan-fried best). Order as a six-piece set or add them to that chaotically good bento combo above, either for a quick lunch or a secret snack away from the office." - Kat Hong

https://www.theinfatuation.com/los-angeles/reviews/kaminari-gyoza
Mastro's
KAMINARI GYOZA BAR

James L.

Google
4.5/5 ### Kaminari Gyoza Bar: A Dumpling Devotion in Little Tokyo Tucked away in the heart of Little Tokyo at 323 E 1st Street in Los Angeles, Kaminari Gyoza Bar is a love letter to Utsunomiya-style gyoza, the iconic Japanese dumplings hailing from the gyoza capital of Japan. Opened in 2022 by Shigemitsu "Shige" Fujii, a native of Utsunomiya who swapped his fried chicken spot for this focused haven, the restaurant channels the purity of hometown specialists—minimal menu, maximum flavor. With bright yellow noren curtains framing the entrance and a sleek, fast-casual interior featuring communal tables and booths, it's the perfect pit stop for a quick, satisfying bite amid the bustle of downtown LA. Open daily from 11 AM, it buzzes with locals and tourists alike, especially during lunch rushes. What elevates Kaminari to must-visit status is their obsession with fresh, tasty, made-from-scratch fillings that burst with authenticity. Every batch is prepared daily, using high-quality ingredients like ground pork, cabbage, nira chives, and onions for the classic pork gyoza, ensuring a juicy, herbaceous punch in every bite. I started with the Yaki Gyoza (pan-fried, 6 pieces for $8.50)—crispy-edged skins that tear satisfyingly when pulled apart, revealing a steamy, plump filling that's savory without grease, laced with just enough ginger and garlic to dance on the tongue. The Age (deep-fried) version amps up the crunch, while the Sui (boiled in clear pork soup) offers a soothing, brothy embrace, the filling's freshness shining through the light herbal broth. Don't skip the Shrimp Gyoza, where sweet, bouncy seafood mingles with egg white and chives for a delicate, oceanic twist, or the vegan Impossible Pork option, packed with shiitake and enoki mushrooms for an umami bomb that's impressively meaty. Bentos make it a meal, pairing gyoza with rice, herby roasted potatoes, or even curry-spiced spaghetti—a quirky Utsunomiya nod that surprisingly works. Service is efficient and friendly, with staff eager to guide dipping sauce choices (their homemade chili oil is addictive). At around $12-15 for a full bento, it's a steal for such quality. Yelp's 4.5/5 from over 246 reviews echoes my sentiment: it's the fillings' vibrant, made-that-day magic that keeps folks coming back. Whether you're a dumpling die-hard or just craving fresh comfort food, Kaminari delivers thunderous satisfaction. In a city of fusion spots, this one's a grounding triumph—pure, delicious, and utterly craveable.

Taka H

Google
Kaminari specializes in Utsunomiya-style gyoza, a pan-fried dumpling that uses a paper-thin wrapper. In Japan, Utsunomiya is a town known for gyoza paired with experimental and non-traditional ingredients 🍽 The first gyoza bar in LA all the way from Utsunomiya Japan! FOOD 4/5 - Yaki gyoza which is pan fried - Sui gyoza boiled gyoza in clear pork soup w/green onions = LOVE THIS! SERVICE 3.5/5 Kinda had a weird vibe from the staff members here. Just wasn't the friendliest or authentic. PARKING 4/5 Parking in the perimeter of J-twn

Chat S.

Google
We visited Kaminari Gyoza Bar in Little Tokyo after attending a ceremony at the nearby Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. We found it simply by searching for a place with great reviews, and it turned out to be a wonderful surprise. We arrived around noon and were definitely hungry, since none of us had eaten breakfast. The gyoza immediately hit the spot. They offer them three ways… steamed… pan fried… or deep fried… and every version was well made and full of flavor. We ordered the complete meal option, which was the best value and gave us a chance to try more items. The dipping sauces were also a highlight. The chimichurri chili was excellent. The garlic aioli was just average in comparison. The restaurant is small but very clean, organized, and efficient. Service was friendly and fast, which we really appreciated. It felt like an authentic and reliable spot for anyone who enjoys gyoza or Japanese comfort food. Parking in the area can be challenging, but there are paid parking lots close by. Overall, this was a great find and a place I would happily return to for a casual and satisfying meal.

Ashley P.

Google
I would drive the 2 and half 3 hours from where I live to la just to eat here again! The soup was my fav hubs loved the fried! ...went during happy hour good deals!

Gina A.

Google
An absolute pleasure! This is not just a meal but a true food experience! The gyoza here is delicious! They are flavorful and cooked to perfection. They were crispy and delicate. And the sauces!! Amazing! We had the meals which have a delightful soup, veggies, and a tasty pasta. The staff are very friendly and attentive. The restaurant is immaculate, including the restroom. A must!

Hasilhasan H.

Google
We arrived around noon and were definitely hungry, since none of us had eaten breakfast. The gyoza immediately hit the spot. They offer them three ways… steamed… pan fried… or deep fried… and every version was well made and full of flavor. We ordered theParking in the area can be challenging, but there are paid parking lots close by. Overall, this was a great find and a place I would happily return to for a casual and satisfying meal. complete meal option, which was the best value and gave us a chance to try more items. The dipping sauces were also a highlight. The chimichurri chili was excellent. The garlic aioli was just average in comparison.

Nicole B.

Google
When I first found this restaurant and saw it was a gyoza bar, I was instantly going there. It’s such a cool concept to get different flavors of gyoza cooked different ways with multiple sauces. We had the pork gyoza both deep and pan fried, we both liked the pan fried ones the best. You must try to soup or get the meal option so you get a bit of everything, it’s really worth it. Excellent flavors, plenty of parking nearby, great service…truly you can’t go wrong. The next time we are in Down Town LA, we will be back.

Logan

Google
The gyoza here are great, but be honest with yourself - have you ever had a bad gyoza? No, the reason to come here is everything around that experience. The unique and delicious sauces (try the Yuzu, it’s so incredible!) or the spicy cold tofu. Great food, good atmosphere, and a friendly staff. It’s everything I would want in a restaurant.
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Ted F.

Yelp
Oh yeah, big rec. Just such a simple concept done so tremendously well. The menu has all of maybe 12 items cooked in different ways. Pork chicken shrimp vegan. Every single item was super good, really good place to get together with friends and very affordable. Every piece was delicious, honestly no notes and will be back.
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Tim H.

Yelp
Kaminari specializes in Utsunomiya-style gyoza, a pan-fried dumpling that uses a paper-thin wrapper. In Japan, Utsunomiya is a town known for gyoza paired with experimental and non-traditional ingredients The first gyoza bar in LA all the way from Utsunomiya Japan! FOOD 4/5 - Yaki gyoza which is pan fried - Sui gyoza boiled gyoza in clear pork soup w/green onions = LOVE THIS! SERVICE 3.5/5 Kinda had a weird vibe from the staff members here. Just wasn't the friendliest or authentic. PARKING 4/5 Parking in the perimeter of J-twn
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Chat S.

Yelp
We visited Kaminari Gyoza Bar in Little Tokyo after attending a ceremony at the nearby Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. We found it simply by searching for a place with great reviews, and it turned out to be a wonderful surprise. We arrived around noon and were definitely hungry, since none of us had eaten breakfast. The gyoza immediately hit the spot. They offer them three ways... steamed... pan fried... or deep fried... and every version was well made and full of flavor. We ordered the complete meal option, which was the best value and gave us a chance to try more items. The dipping sauces were also a highlight. The chimichurri chili was excellent. The garlic aioli was just average in comparison. The restaurant is small but very clean, organized, and efficient. Service was friendly and fast, which we really appreciated. It felt like an authentic and reliable spot for anyone who enjoys gyoza or Japanese comfort food. Parking in the area can be challenging, but there are paid parking lots close by. Overall, this was a great find and a place I would happily return to for a casual and satisfying meal.
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Tiffany L.

Yelp
Loved their shrimp dumplings! I liked how they cut the pieces in a way that the shrimp still had a lot of texture, and the skin on the yaki style especially is so chewy. I tried the pork yaki style as well, but the skin wasn't as chewy. I found the pork filling to be alright, mainly because I didn't think it had a lot of aromatics to give it more flavor. We also got their takoyaki as a side, and it's one of the better takoyaki I've had in Little Tokyo. The squid filling was pretty substantial and for a good price. Definitely will come back!
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Carlo G.

Yelp
I came here with a friend for a pre-dinner snack and my experience here was pretty great! We ordered the Pork Yaki Gyoza (steamed pan fried gyoza) and the Chicken Age Gyoza (deep fried gyoza) and both of them were tasty and delicious! The Yaki Gyoza was steamed perfectly and had a nice and crispy bottom while the Age Gyoza was nice and crunchy. The fillings in both were tasty and meaty. I made a dipping sauce with the chili oil, soy sauce, and vinegar which paired nicely with the gyoza as the savory sauce seeped into the gyoza meat. We ordered 6 pieces of each to split amongst the 2 of us. Each were around $10, so it was a pretty good deal. The interior is clean and the staff is pretty attentive and polite. This would be a great spot to grab a beer with some snacks. Overall, a good experience here and I would come back if I was in the area!
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Candace R.

Yelp
We came in mid-day Friday, and made it in time for their happy hour special! I believe it was 6 gyoza for $8 and you had the choice of what filling. I had 2 servings! It was such a good deal for good food! Extremely fresh gyoza it was delicious. Service was also great and it's a cute cozy vibe inside.
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Valerie C.

Yelp
Kaminari offers Japanese gyoza served in different ways- in soup (sui), pan fried (yaki) and deep fried (age). We got the pork yaki gyoza and shrimp sui gyoza. We also got ajitama (seasoned egg) and kimchi as sides. Yaki Gyoza was pan fried perfectly, crispy on the outside. I also like the cabbage in the filling was not super finely chopped, so you could feel the texture when taking a bite. Shrimp sui gyoza was very good- shrimp was fresh and the soup wasn't bland. The seasoned egg was really flavorful. I would get it again. I like the causal vibe here. Service was friendly and food was good. I would come back.
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Cora S.

Yelp
This gyoza bar has three styles of gyozas with a variety of fillings. I got the traditional gyoza teishoku (set meal) with yaki (pan fried) pork gyoza. The set came with rice, cabbage, spaghetti, miso soup, veggies, and pickled radish. The gyoza were flavorful and paired nicely with their house chili oil. I also noticed they have a good happy hour deal and serve desserts now!
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Denise L.

Yelp
Ducked in here on a whim and am soo glad I did! The menu is pretty straight forward. I ordered the gyoza teishoku set meal with pork yaki gyoza. After a little wait, it was ready! I don't know why but I was stunned at the amount of food that it comes with! The pork bone broth was a really delicious surprise. I didn't really vibe with the cold pasta and the veggies on the side were just ok. The gyoza was definitely the star of the show - light, crispy, and packed full of flavor. Delicious! I am curious to try some of the other flavors so I will definitely be back :) They unfortunately do not validate parking.
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Janice B.

Yelp
After a big lunch earlier in the day, our party of 4 wanted a dinner that was not a huge meal, but still savory and satisfying (plus close to our hotel). This gyoza bar perfectly fit the bill! We tried pork, shrimp, and chicken pan-fried gyozas, and loved them all - our collective favorite was the shrimp gyoza with the spicy yuzu sauce. They also serve excellent edamame - nice and hot and salted perfectly. Sapporo beer was a great accompaniment to the food. Cheerful, efficient service. Ambiance was clean and friendly. Highly recommend!
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Juan F.

Yelp
My wife and I have been eyeing this place for years now and finally came for lunch. I got the deep fried shrimp gyoza and she got the pan fried beef gyoza. They both tasted great with juicy filling. The meal set comes with rice, soup and some veggies. Definitely a meal for the smaller appetite because I needed to eat almost right after. Service was friendly and quick.
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Rene R.

Yelp
Second time dining here and it's such a great spot. Easy, light bites. Ordered shrimp gyoza meal. And it came out hot and fresh
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Amy K.

Yelp
Quick and easy, light bites in Little Tokyo! All the gyoza's taste delicious. It's a quiet, small restaurant tucked next to Daikokuya and Marugame. Great to visit for light snacks/appetizers.
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Kuni Y.

Yelp
We are traveling down California for our golden anniversary celebration trip. We finally found our gyōza store we were looking for at Little Tokyo in Los Angeles. I ate pork,chicken and shrimp gyōza and I had to reorder one more plate of shrimp gyōza. It was so delicious. And services were top notch and very friendly. We have to come back again. Thank you for the memories.
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Julieann M.

Yelp
Tried this spot on a whim, and it turned out to be the perfect chill night out! I ordered the Yuzu Bubbles sake, which was light, refreshing, and had just the right amount of sweetness and fizz, definitely tastes better chilled as promised, and it paired perfectly with our food. The fried gyoza here is next-level. They're crispy without being greasy, filled generously, and topped with a sprinkle of thin chili threads that add a subtle kick without overpowering the flavors. They were so good we ordered another plate. The atmosphere is cozy with warm wood tables and a casual, friendly vibe that makes it easy to relax. Service was quick and attentive without hovering, and the staff made sure our drinks stayed cold and our table stayed clear. Overall, if you're looking for a place to grab good drinks and solid small bites, this spot nails it. I'd come back just for the sake and gyoza combo alone.
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Steve W.

Yelp
Great spot for gyozo!! Very authentic and several options: steamed , fried, or in broth. We really enjoyed the shrimp and chicken. The garlic edamame side was excellent. Service first rate.
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Samantha W.

Yelp
I stopped in to get some vegan gyoza to go and everything was great! The food was so delicious and the staff were super friendly. I'll definitely be back in again! Yum!
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Branden N.

Yelp
This place gets 5 stars JUST for their pork broth. Who would guess that a Gyoza Bar would offer a $2.50 bowl of piping hot broth that would steal the show? It is difficult to describe how delicious this broth was! Pork bone broth garnished with scallions was the perfect snack in between bites of Pork Gyoza which our table also enjoyed. The draft Sapporo 16oz at $6.50 is a steal in DTLA. For $18.00 for the Gyoza, we felt that the price was okay, but the gyoza was understandably in the shadow of the pork broth. Service was friendly and attentive, we noticed a slight smell of mildew (most likely from the AC unit directly above our table), but it did not bother us enough to inform the staff and move. Great place for a snack!
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Caes F.

Yelp
Gyoza Bar is an interesting concept and I happened to be in the area. Definitely order the Shrimp Gyoza, it was the highlight of my meal. I enjoyed the quality vinegar and soy sauce. $20 The Pork Gyoza was alright and the side dishes reminded me of takeout meals from Japanese Market.
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Khoi H.

Yelp
Kaminari was such a pleasant surprise! We came here before a night out in LA and we were seated promptly. The gyoza ranges from $6-14 and the portions are decent. The gyoza is well-made with the fillings being decadent and flavorful. Service was quick and while the restaurant wasn't busy, they should definitely receive more attention.
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Mel D.

Yelp
Gyoza is one of my favorite Japanese dishes. I grew up eating my mom's delicious gyoza & I can make a decent gyoza but it's so much work, I prefer to eat it when I'm out. I've been looking for my favorite gyoza in LA for some time & Kaminari might be the one. Wanna know something interesting? I ended up liking the shrimp gyoza the most, not to say the pork wasn't good. Both were delicious but I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed my first ever experience eating shrimp gyoza. I ordered takeout and the food was ready on time. The team was friendly and pick up was easy. The interior was so cute, very authentic Japanese. I definitely want to eat in person next time. Gyoza is allays best fresh. If you want to impress a date who's enjoys Japanese cuisine...skip the typical sushi, came it up and try a gyoza date night instead.
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Celine K.

Yelp
the pan fried pork gyoza was delicious, i preferred the spicy miso sauce over the cilantro chili. the clear pork soup was flavorful, id go back to try the gyoza in the soup
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Kimberly R.

Yelp
Came here Saturday morning for brunch before an afternoon Dodgers game. We were immediately greeted by staff and seated. Surprisingly there were few other parties there. The restaurant was clean and comfortable. The gyoza were simply delicious. The skin was super crunchy yet the filling inside was flavorful, juicy and moist. Dipping with chili oil and vinegar was a must. The bento comes with a large portion of food for an affordable price too. Recommend coming here if you're in the area!

Stefano B.

Yelp
Surprisingly amazing spot. Juicy flavorful dumplings, so light you keep ordering more, their broth is perfectly well balanced and flavorful too. Really great surprise, we will be back ASAP
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May Y.

Yelp
At first I thought this place was just a basic gyoza/dumpling spot with very little on the menu however the pictures for this place looked really good so we gave it a shot. And surprisingly the gyoza was really good. I guess it would be. Little Tokyo has a lot of good restaurants and this one did not fail. I order the pork gyoza bento box, the soup gyoza, kimchi, tofu, edamame and soju with beer. Again this place did not fail. Everything here was yummy. The service here was good, we came with a party of six and the server was quick. The place is small but was spacious enough to enjoy. If you're in the area don't skip on this place. It was very tasty!
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Presley M.

Yelp
My husband and I went walking around little Tokyo to try multiple foods and grabbed some gyoza here--soooo delicious and cooked perfectly!! The service was chill and quick--ambiance was cute too!! Felt like a lil Japan moment. Will def go back to try more foods next time we're in the area
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Cait W.

Yelp
If you like gyoza, this is the spot. I got a gyoza plate with rice and veggies. The gyoza was fresh and tasty. The restaurant is small but can hold groups of 4+. They also have a great beer choice. Food came out quick and the employees were very friendly. Would recommend.
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Angela M.

Yelp
I'm a little obsessed with gyoza, so when we stumbled on a gyoza-focused restaurant while wandering around Little Tokyo back in September, our lunch plans were instantly decided for us. There was one couple ahead of us waiting for the doors to open, so we were seated right away. There are three different types of gyoza -- yaki (pan fried), age (deep fried), and sui (boiled and served in a clear pork broth) -- all available in either pork, chicken, or shrimp. You can get either six or 12 to an order of yaki, while the age come six to an order. The sui gyoza are limited to five per order. There are also a number of sides and side sauces to choose from. We went with six pieces of yaki, an order of age, one order of the sui, and the cilantro chili, yuzu kosho, and spicy miso sauces. Since the sui is already in a pork broth, we got pork gyoza with that dish. For one of the other gyoza types we ordered chicken and for the other we got pork, but I don't remember which. Not that it really matters, because everything was outstanding. This was such a delicious meal. Every type of gyoza were so good, flavorful, and went very well with the sauces we ordered. While all of the sauces were good, the yuzu was the star of the table. I couldn't get enough of it. It was bright and citrusy without being tart. The age were crispy, not oily, and the broth of the sui was light and gentle. Everything was pretty reasonably priced, too. At the time, the pork and chicken yaki were $9.50 for an order of six, the pork and chicken age were $9.50, and the pork and chicken sui were $9.50. I wish we had KAMINARI or something like it here in the Bay Area. I'd be going there all the time. I'd 100% come back here on my next trip to Little Tokyo.
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Kevin L.

Yelp
A nice spot with really tasty gyoza. Tried all the meat options but preferred the shrimp. Parking is typical for little Tokyo. Couldn't find street parking but a few lots nearby and the Tokyo mall structure is right across the street. Overall fairly priced for the area and wasn't too crowded. Service was good and is perfect for small groups.
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Jenny X.

Yelp
Came here with a group of 5 with no reservation and got seated immediately - tons of space inside. Good: - Amazing value for buck - we got a ton of stuff with the pork dumpling bento set - it came with salad, spaghetti, soup, banchan and gyoza and rice. - The soup was one of my favorites - it was so savory and flavorful - The staff were incredibly nice and kind! They took our order patiently and gave us water constantly Bad: - Pretty casual diner vibes - The gyoza was pretty average compared to others I've had Overall this place was a great find and fun gem! Don't know if I'd come again but would come for a cheap meal.
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Melanie G.

Yelp
Kind servers and amazing food for a good price! On a Saturday around 12:30pm, there was also no wait. I got the pan-fried vegan gyoza set meal. It comes with 6 pieces of gyoza, rice, soup, spaghetti and some side veggies. This whole meal was under $15! The gyoza uses impossible meat and also had cabbage and mushrooms. They're tasty and good dipped in the soup. The soup seemed to be a pretty standard soy sauce based soup with some green onions, a little salty on its own but still very good. Rice was cooked well and dusted with some sour plum. It paired well with the veggies (carrots, mushrooms, greens) which seemed to be sautéed with some seasoned oil, very tasty! The spaghetti wasn't heavily sauced and it was a little on the sweeter side. A very filling and relatively healthy meal! Probably one of my favorite places to eat in little Tokyo, especially considering the price!
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Alyssa A.

Yelp
We were told they had the best Gyoza, and let me tell you - it is no lie. Their gyoza is the BEST! Happened to stop by for the first time during Happy Hour, so of course we tried their Gyoza & Sapporo Special - $11 for an order of of Gyoza and a pint of Sapporo. What a great deal! We ended up trying both the Yaki and the Age Gyoza and both were so delicious - we were initially only going to get one order but had to order a second because it was that good. Their Ajitama is on point as well. They also offer a Gyoza meal that we kept seeing go by. Looks delicious and will definitely be ordering it next time we come. Parking was easy in a paid lot a block or two away. Staff here are so kind and efficient - lovely! If gyoza is what you want, then this is the place to be. Stop by and leave happy.
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Stewart L.

Yelp
I was staying at the Miyako Hotel across the street and ordered some food to go. The place is situated on the north side of 1st St. next to the popular Daikokuya (ramen) and Marugame Monzo (udon). For those eating in, there are a few communal high-top tables with non-movable stools in the front, with some cozy booths further back alongside the kitchen. The gyoza are prepared in 3 ways: yaki (pan-fried), age Ideep fried) or sui (boiled, served in a pork broth). There are pork, chicken, shrimp and vegan filling options, with 2 serving sizes for yaki gyoza. There are a few side dishes and sauces. I ordered the bento box, which comes with 6 gyoza, rice, pasta, cabbage, spring roll, edamame, pickles. Yelp photos show the box used to come with soup and a side dish. The pork gyoza were very good with a crisp bottom, and the spring roll was tasty too. The pasta was very lightly sauced with a tomato sauce. Good place for a light bite.
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Mat A.

Yelp
Was looking for some small plates in Little Tokyo after a drink and found this relatively new gyoza bar in the area. Can't go wrong between their pan-fried and deep-friend gyoza. Both were nice and crispy on the outside but still savory and soft on the inside. Great place to go if you're looking for some quick eats.
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Michael T.

Yelp
Got here on a Saturday around 12 and it wasn't busy so we were seated quickly! I ordered the pan fried vegan gyoza set meal! I believe the meal was around $15 which was not bad for the amount of food you get! The staff were also very friendly and helpful! The set meal came with 6 pieces of gyoza, spaghetti, spring rolls, rice, soup, and some vegetables! The gyozas were nice and crispy and very tasty when dipped in the soup! The broth was your normal soup broth but it was very tasty! The spaghetti was very good and had the right amount of sauce on it! I also really enjoyed the spring rolls! They were nice and crispy just like the gyozas! Also the rice had sour plum on it which was a nice touch! That was my first time trying sour plum! Overall, the meal was really good and I would definitely go back next time I am in Little Tokyo!
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Lauren M.

Yelp
This place is adorable, it definitely reminded me of Japan - the small cozy vibe and the concise menu. I love a place that has 1 thing they do well and they just stick to that instead of having a giant menu of medicore dishes. I got a bento box with age pork gyoza and picked the yuzu kosho as my sauce. The sauce was so bright and delicious, it really amped up the flavor of my gyoza. I also really enjoyed their pickles - it's a great acidic addition. This is a super well-balanced bento. I would definitely come back!
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Jeannie Y.

Yelp
Nestled in the heart of Japantown, Kaminari Gyoza has a nice vibe--cozy interior, good music, and an overall welcoming atmosphere. The service is friendly and attentive, which makes it a good spot to unwind. That said, the food is just okay. The dumplings are fine but nothing to write home about--definitely not mind-blowing. It's more of a place to grab drinks, snack on some gyoza, and catch up with friends than a spot you go to for an unforgettable meal. If you're in the area and looking for a chill hangout, it does the job. Just don't expect culinary fireworks.
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liz g.

Yelp
Food was great! Gyoza was very crispy and I loved the kinpira gobo! Pork soup was a bit too rich for me but everything else was great. A bit of an odd bento but very delicious and no complaints! I'd come back here again
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Shelley W.

Yelp
This hidden gem brought me back to Osaka! The vibe felt very similar to this one gyoza spot I ate at in Osaka, and the taste was just as good. The pan fried options are fried perfectly, crunchy and not too oily. The filling is very balanced. The soup was a great addition to the meal, and the rice somehow was absolutely delicious!! The whole set is just a great combination of flavors. Such a great dinner experience in japantown. Service was friendly and kind. It wasn't too busy at 5pm but started to pick up as we finished our meal. I will definitely return when I'm in dtla!
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James A.

Yelp
Located in the Little Tokyo area of DTLA, Kaminari Gyoza serves a very focused menu of Japanese style dumplings. We stopped in for Sunday lunch, and found the dumplings to be delicious, though not the best value for the price. We put our name down for dine-in for three, and got lucky that a table opened up right then (there isn't that much seating, being that the dining area is long and narrow, only having width for one table and space to walk through). Our server (Pear) was great, friendly in the beginning and attentive to check up on us throughout. We ended up ordering dumplings to share. Drinks were water and a Mexican coke ($4.50), along with some good edamame ($4.00), clear pork soup ($2.50), and white rice bowl ($2.50). In terms of the main course, we got 3 sets of 6, pan-fried with the three different fillings (shrimp $10.5, pork $9.5, chicken $9.5). As it usually ends up with me, the pork tasted the best, but I appreciated the large chunks of whole shrimp (instead of the ground version that was the chicken and pork). They LOOKED great, with the skirt going around the set. Payment is done tableside, and if one really wants, can be in-and-out pretty quick. The portions were small enough that there were no chance for leftovers, with plenty of space in our stomachs for ice cream dessert at the neighboring shops. I have to admit I can't tell the difference between Japanese, Chinese, or Korean style dumplings based on the meat fillings or thickness/taste of the wrapper...which kinda makes sense since most believe all of it originated from mainland China anyway. The sauces can be different however, and Kaminari does have optional sauces you can order beyond the soy sauce and vinegar. Will need to try that next time.
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Tom J.

Yelp
The gyoza come three ways, all excellent: pan-fried/steamed (yaki), deep-fried (age), and boiled in soup (sui). The bento boxes are a great value and a good portion size for lunch. Maybe add on another 6pc gyoza if you're especially hungry.
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Randall M.

Yelp
I. Love. This. Place. We used to order it on post mates all the time when we lived in DTLA. I didn't realize they had a sit down option. Food is usually always good. Top quality gyoza - who knew that was a thing? Service in line with hospitable Japanese restaurants in town. Ambiance was a traditional Japanese restaurant in the center of J town in downtown Los Angeles.
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Adriel O.

Yelp
Food was amazing. Definitely going back. My favorite were the shrimp gyoza. Service was really great and they were very attentive.
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Todd I.

Yelp
Part of our little Tokyo food tour. We are here to eat only gyoza. This is the specialty in all forms. They serve them pan fried, deep fried or steamed. We opted for a deep fried and pan fried order. These arrived freshly made to order with ponzu dipping sauce standard. We both agreed we enjoyed the pan fried version for taste and texture. These were by far better than the ramen store version. Also conveniently located next to the ramen shop.
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Eugenia L.

Yelp
Tried their pork yakigyoza which seems like their most popular one and it was really delicious. Their 12 piece portion is a perfect size to fill you up. We also tried the set meal version and it has a good variety of sides. The broth it comes with is really delicious, flavorful and comforting. The dumplings itself are cooked perfectly with a juicy meat filling and a perfect pan fried skin. The menu is super easy since they only have a few things on the menu. You can't go wrong with what you order!
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Aina D.

Yelp
Fast casual with a lot of heart Gyozas (AKA dumplings) are hit or miss for me. I've had tasted the entire gamut - from thick and chewy and undercooked, to dry and overcooked. But KAMINARI sends it each time. Their gyozas are light, golden-crispy, and delectable. Consistency and attention to perfection are evident - from the chef's recipes and fast-yet-efficient service. My partner and I always order the set meal, I get the vegan age (deep fried) and he gets the shrimp yaki (pan fried) and we basically share the whole thing. Yum!!!!

Lily B.

Yelp
Great food with a wonderful atmosphere! I loved the service, everyone was so nice and helpful! Definitely recommend if you're in LA!!
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Whe N.

Yelp
This place is amazing and super affordable....I got pork & chicken gyoza....fireeeeeeeeeeeee One was soup and the other was pan fried. The service was top notch fast and friendly....this is hands down my favorite spot in little tokyo.......
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Chloe N.

Yelp
I wanted to love this place... I am a dumpling lover in every shape and form, especially in gyoza pan fried form. The service here was super friendly and quick, as we were sat right away on the high chair tables. You order and pay right away so once you're finished you don't have to wait for anything! The chairs were just a tad bit uncomfortable for me as the edges were sharp and I prefer to sit on the edge of my seat.. just to keep that in mind. Onto the gyoza! We got shrimp ($9.50) and pork ($8.50). The shrimp was okay, we were definitely bigger fans of the pork gyoza. The gyozas stuck together so it was a little bit difficult pulling them apart without ruining the wrapping of the next one. I thought overall, it was okay. I wish it was more outstanding, and I can see more potential in the sauces and maybe more flavor in the filling. I love the concept though!