Yuko Kitchen DTLA

Japanese restaurant · Downtown Los Angeles

Yuko Kitchen DTLA

Japanese restaurant · Downtown Los Angeles

2

101 W 5th St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

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Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null
Yuko Kitchen DTLA by null

Highlights

Japanese & fusion fare with vibrant murals, rice bowls, & teas  

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101 W 5th St, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Get directions

yukokitchen.com
@yukokitchen

$10–20 · Menu

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101 W 5th St, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Get directions

+1 213 266 0046
yukokitchen.com
@yukokitchen

$10–20 · Menu

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Last updated

Aug 31, 2025

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@onthegrid

On the Grid : Yuko Kitchen

"There’s something whimsical about Yuko Kitchen. The place teems with plant life; everywhere you look, something green peeks back at you. Fresh, exciting dishes, vegan desserts, hand-painted signs and twinkling lights. Order at the counter and take a seat. We like the Bowl Lito — rice bowl ingredients wrapped in seaweed — and the mint apple frozen lemonade. Out on the hidden patio, you’ll forget you’re in the middle of LA." - Huge

https://onthegrid.city/los-angeles/miracle-mile/yuko-kitchen
View Postcard for Yuko Kitchen DTLA
@eater

Where to Eat Near LACMA and Mid-Wilshire, LA’s Miracle Mile Museum Row | Eater LA

"Yuko Kitchen is a quirky semi-hidden dining oasis just off Wilshire Boulevard. The entrance is hard to find but once inside the restaurant bursts with color and big flavors from dishes like Japanese sushi rolls, rice bowls, boba drinks, and a surprising Chinese chicken salad." - Farley Elliott

https://la.eater.com/maps/los-angeles-miracle-mile-lacma-museums-where-eat-best
View Postcard for Yuko Kitchen DTLA

Eric Williams

Google
Four stars because the restaurant is absolutely charming, and the kind of gem that DTLA needs more of. The salmon bowl was fine, and the breaded broccoli was kind of bad. I was expecting tempura, but it was kind of gummy and sad. Still, this is such a lovely place that I don’t hesitate to recommend it. Maybe narrowing the menu and putting a lot of love into fewer dishes would make this a five.

Fab TV

Google
Just had the nice sized “Spicy Salmon Bowl”. It was superb. The lettuce and the rice were fresh perfect sized. I also got a green tea, this was my first time here I’ll definitely try out the other location Miracle Mile, cool atmosphere.

Yvonne Miranda

Google
The atmosphere is whimsical, the staff was very friendly and let us know about the cafeteria style approach. The price was well worth the amount of food we received and I wish people knew about this place more. We’ll be coming back to this location and their other location as well.

April Hanley

Google
Delicious little place in DTLA. The atmosphere is cute and casual with lots of pretty plants. The Udon noodle soups were flavorful, spicy salmon roll was generously portioned and delicious. Butter cookies were amazing and the service was great. Overall a very good experience.

Yahaira Navarcia

Google
This is such a cute place! It has so much flavor and its such a cute decor. You order at the counter and they give you a number and then bring you your food! I definitely recommend it! Parking can be a bit annoying because its street only but honestly its worth the hassle because the food is soo good! The portions are huge so its a great value!

anna raffaele

Google
The chicken teriyaki was awesome fresh and delicious. The sushi was bot good nor fresh the rice was very sticky and chewy, I did not like it at all. The drinks were awesome and naturally refreshing! The environment very peaceful! I was just disappointed with the rice because I was expecting a good meal! Would return though for other choices! There is not much service, self pick up, serve, and plate drop off cafeteria style!

Kourosh Ghahremani

Google
I tried their big veggie udon bowl and avocado roll and both were absolutely delicious! The atmosphere is super cozy and relaxing with all the house plants and murals surrounding you.

Malia

Google
Great atmosphere and decor. And super friendly staff! However, food is below mid 🫠 we got two of the sushi dishes (spicy salmon and tempura) and didn't finish them 🤣 overuse of avocado and for the salmon... Drenched in sauce. So that's either due to 1) inexperience of the cook or 2) low quality fish 🫠 Or both. Who's to say 🤷🏽‍♀️we also got the chicken karaage and... The batter was falling off the chicken and lacked overall flavor 😕and if the simplest of dishes can be mishandled, I can only guess the rest of the menu. I tried the matcha strawberry Choco cookie, that was good. Also bought some matcha powder since it's from the owners family farm in Japan. Haven't tried that out yet, but I have high hopes. Looking at other reviews, I probably should've stuck with the alcohol and pastries. Now don't get me wrong, if you like mid tasting food, this is probably the go to spot. But IMO the flavors were watered down. I said what I said 🤣 again no hate, just a random opinion, from a random stranger, in the sea of millions. And I'd try this place again, but maybe focus on strictly the vegan/vegetarian options since I've heard good things on that end.
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Romwell Y.

Yelp
I just had an awesome meal at Yuku Kitchen DTLA! One thing I really loved was how you pay before getting your food it made everything super smooth and easy. The vibe of the place is so calming; it really helped me relax while I ate. Plus, I thought it was cool that plates and utensils are reusable. It's a little thing, but it feels nice to contribute to a clean space. If you're in the area, definitely check it out. I can't wait to go back! --- Let me know if you want any more tweaks!
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Samantha C.

Yelp
Such a cute cafe! I loved the chill and cozy atmosphere with all the plants surrounding you, people were studying and hanging out which gave it a relaxed welcoming vibe. The food was delicious and the menu is pretty big, so there's something for everyone. I ordered the fried chicken garlic rice bowl and was blown away by how huge the portion was! The chicken was perfectly crispy, and the price made total sense for the amount and quality of food. For drinks, the mint lemonade was super refreshing and the green tea boba was really good too. I liked that you can choose your preferred milk. The only dessert I had was the rocky road brownie and it was pretty good, highly recommend!
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Ana E.

Yelp
Yuko Cafe is a hidden little spot on 5th and Main in Downtown LA, and honestly, it's one of the only food options near the building where I visit patients regularly. It's a small café filled with plants--and yes, the plants are for sale, which adds a cool, quirky charm to the place. If you're into greenery and grabbing a bite, this spot checks both boxes. The food is Japanese-inspired, with some creative fusion elements. They used to have bowls that I liked, but now they serve what they call a "bolito"--basically a giant sushi burrito wrapped in nori. Think of it as a massive sushi hand roll. It's fresh, flavorful, and fun to eat, though definitely a bit messy, so grab extra napkins. I always get the spicy mayo and hot sauce on the side--highly recommend for a flavor boost. They also offer salads, gluten-free and vegan cookies, and some other desserts. I haven't tried everything on the menu, but what I've had has been consistently good. A heads-up: this is not in the safest area. If you're unfamiliar with Downtown LA, especially around Skid Row, know that it can feel pretty sketchy, especially if you're alone or carrying valuables. I wouldn't hang around outside too long or bring anything expensive. That said, inside the café feels like a bit of an escape from the chaos just outside. If you're open to a Mexican-Asian fusion, don't mind a little adventure, and want a low-key, plant-filled escape, Yuko Cafe is worth checking out. Just stay aware of your surroundings.
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Silvia D.

Yelp
This place is a neat spot... gave it 4 stars because of the plants. Food: Food was okay. I felt like it was missing something... the WONTONS WERE MY FAVORITE! I ordered the fish and wonton and that was good. The banana and peanut butter cookie was actually good. SERVICE: UM you order your food, you pick up your food, your pick up your dishes when finished, and then you sort your food and dishes once you're finished...
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Emily G.

Yelp
Escape into a magical space in the middle of DTLA! So many plants and colorful paint. Delicious, healthy and abundant food and drinks. An amazing place to get lost into for lunch or to catch up with friends. Also service was really fast!
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Ariana M.

Yelp
I've had this spot saved forever and I finally got the chance to try it for lunch! The restaurant is beautifully decorated both inside and out. Seating is limited, so it was kind of tough to find seating. We ordered the spicy sushi salmon and the hot spicy beef udon, and we'd like to come back to try other things.
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Yembur A.

Yelp
A little slice of heaven! I would come here just to soak in the colorful plant-filled ambiance, but the food is the cherry on top. It's fresh and flavorful with hearty portion sizes. There are plenty of vegetarian options too. I only wish they weren't closed on Sundays!
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Anglow G.

Yelp
The ambiance was nice i loved the plants and the overall atmosphere in the inside. However I would say the food was very lackluster. I ordered a chicken plate and the chicken was super dry and lacked a lot of flavor. I'm open to coming back and trying something different !
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Niaz K.

Yelp
The first step you take inside this establishment is jaw dropping. The plethora of plants and different kinds of vegetation all around the restaurant is very aesthetically pleasing. As a plant lover, this was truly breathtaking. As for the food, you order at the counter and get a number. They have daily specials on soup and offer a happy hour as well! They have plates, bowls, salads, and sushi rolls. Some dessert is also displayed by where you order (I peeped a matcha cookie!) I ordered the spicy salmon "bowl" but I subbed the rice for salad. This was a really tasty. The spicy salmon was perfectly seasoned and it came on a giant bowl of lettuce with some cucumbers and radishes. My boyfriend, creature of habit, ordered the Chinese chicken salad which he's had (and loved) before. Huge portion of (orange?) chicken on a bed of lettuce with crispy wontons, oranges, and pecans. We also ordered some beer, it was on tap, twist my arm!
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Zara A.

Yelp
Their special plates are honestly one of the best deals you can get!! I got the chicken plate for dinner, which included the entree with salad, soup, 4 pieces of sushi, and dessert. We were also there during happy hour so I ordered a banana boba as well. The tapioca pearls weren't that fresh, but I really liked the flavor of the banana drink. You order at the counter and then pick up the food from a table near the main counter. There is a place to get utensils, napkins, sauces, and to dispose of/clean up after yourself. It kind of reminded me of a cafeteria, which I liked. Also, inside, there are a bunch of plants and greenery surrounding you, along with big windows to let the light in. It's super calming. I found this to be a great place to have dinner with someone.
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Lawring W.

Yelp
I don't recommend... First, the place feels kinda old, the overall environment doesn't feel very clean either... I went during happy hour which includes $4 beer and boba. Unfortunately, they ran out of boba and there aren't any other toppings. I tried their green (matcha) milk tea with less ice and 50% sweetness. I can barely taste the matcha. It was more milky and it tasted more like zero sugar or 25% sugar. I also tried their bbq catfish deluxe bowl since it seemed to be a popular dish according to the Yelp pictures. The bowl was HUGE. That's the main good part about it. There were a lot of toppings, however, some of the veggies (cucumber and beets) were too blocky, chunky. I would prefer them to be sliced/chopped thinner, into tinier pieces for a more enjoyable experience. The main flavor of the dish is teriyaki, nothing special. And I learned that I don't like catfish, or not this one at least. The catfish was fried. The outer layer is soft/soggy, not crispy. Maybe it was meant to be that way? I don't like the taste of catfish. It has a certain "dirt" taste to it like some tilapia I've tried from other places. Also the egg was cold. It had a runny yolk. Rating 3-3.5 for this bowl. There was a table that was constantly wet from water sprinkling down from the top, so we went to a different table. The interior is full of plant decorations, and it also feels super crammed. The bathroom is for customers only, with a key on the wall to access it. The bathroom sink water got so hot after I used the restroom that I could have scolded my hands. It's not safe... The WEIRDEST part was that we got a number for our table. Once the food was ready, a lady told use to get it from a table in the front... They also got my friend's drink order mixed up. Then when we finished, we had to take our trays to the front shelf and throw away our trash. I don't think a tip was necessary this situation...The lady at the cashier was really friendly though.
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andrew m.

Yelp
Efficient, calming, delicious, and satisfying--just a few words I'd use to describe this exceptional establishment. The ambiance is a harmonious blend of lush greenery and an industrial aesthetic, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. Operating as a fast-casual eatery with an order-at-the-counter system, the service remains impressively swift, even during peak hours. While the menu offers a diverse array of options, my personal favorite is the Chinese chicken salad. This dish is a delightful medley of fresh fruits, homemade wontons, and a generous serving of chicken. It's the perfect choice for a hearty lunch, especially if you've skipped breakfast, as every item is substantial and satisfying. I suggest sharing an entree unless you're truly famished. This gem is undoubtedly one of the finest fast-casual restaurants in DTLA. The pleasure? It was all mine.
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Sasha B.

Yelp
Yuko Kitchen has great food, big portions, and a really chill vibe - plants everywhere and tons of natural light make it a super relaxing spot to eat. The food quality is definitely the highlight. Only downside was the service. It felt a little off - kind of pushy for tips in a weird way. If that doesn't bother you too much, it's still a solid spot worth checking out.
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Carolyn L.

Yelp
My girlfriend and I came to Yuko Kitchen after a hike with our dogs and had such a great time. The space is bright and full of greenery, with glass walls and plants everywhere that make it feel like a mini arboretum. We both got the poke bowl and were seriously impressed. Outside of Hawaii, this might be one of the best poke bowls I've had. The portion was generous, the fish was fresh and thickly cut, and the toppings were balanced and flavorful without feeling heavy. Even though you order at the front and pick up your food, the staff made us feel welcome and taken care of. It's a spot that feels easy and low-key but still delivers on quality. Perfect for a slow afternoon or a sunny lunch. We'll definitely be back. 8/10
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Summær H.

Yelp
Stopped in quick for some drinks, this place is visually stunning. The drinks we had were super tasty & full of flavor
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Aya K.

Yelp
Between a 3 and 3.5. It's a super cute place but the food overall was mediocre. We got the milky coffee boba and green tea boba, which were not too bad. The boba itself could've been better but the green tea was great (I chose to get it without the syrup and only a little bit of honey) and the milky coffee was good, maybe on the sweeter side. The chicken teriyaki bowl was disappointing because the chicken was more like breaded chicken nuggets that were dry rather than a typical teriyaki chicken that's grilled chicken. The spicy salmon bowlito is good value but I felt there was too much sauce mixed with the salmon to take away from the "sushi" feel of the salmon. We also got the matcha and strawberry chocolate chip cookie and the chocolate chip overpowers the matcha. So depending on the bite you get, you almost get no matcha flavor. Slightly disappointing
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Kenneth A.

Yelp
Healthy and delicious Japanese fusion food - the plate is where it's at for variety and price. Very green with lots of plants inside - mostly self service, kind of like a new age hippie vibe.
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Shanelle S.

Yelp
The ambiance is cute, with a of of plants, and the food portions are generous. I ordered the chicken plate which came with a hefty amount of protein and sushi rolls. You order and pay first, then grab the food at the counter once it's ready. Indoor and outdoor seating available. Metered street parking close by. A good spot to meet friends for a casual dinner!
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Ashley L.

Yelp
casual spot with a gorgeous interior. menu had so many options to choose from at a good price point. portions are huge too which makes it worth ur money. yummy light type of food :)
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Christine Z.

Yelp
I was looking for lunch spots nearby and Yuko Kitchen was recommended multiple times, so I decided to come check it out! Such a cute spot filled with tons of plants - it really felt like a mini oasis in the heart of downtown LA. CHICKEN PLATE: Comes with so much food! Teriyaki chicken with rice, a ton of salad, 4 spicy salmon rolls, a small cup of soup, and even 3 small pieces of different flavored cookies as dessert. It took me forever to finish it and I was stuffed after. It was nice to be able to try their different cookie flavors. I really enjoyed the matcha cookie although the other 2 flavors were alright (not sure what they were though). APPLE MINT LEMONADE: A bit pricey but I really wanted a drink after walking here in the heat. It was super delicious and refreshing and worth the splurge in my opinion! It does start to settle after a while and look gross but just mix it up and it's still just as tasty. Overall, cute little spot with some filling lunch options. I'd like to come back to try their other bowls!
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Jacqueline A.

Yelp
I stopped in and tried the salmon bowl--absolutely delicious! Everything was fresh and flavorful. I also had the strawberry lemonade, and it was the perfect refreshing touch--sweet, tangy, and made with real strawberries. The atmosphere was super cute and welcoming, making the whole experience even better. I'll definitely be coming back!
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Kanta K.

Yelp
Ordered the garlic salmon rice bowl and it was huge! For $18 I thought it was a bit pricey at first but the size definitely justified the price. The salmon and vegetables were super fresh and had a great dressing to it. I loved the crispy garlic and raw onion as well as they added an extra element of flavor to the dish. My friend got the curry bowl with chicken which was interesting. I expected it to be like Japanese curry but it was more like a thick thai curry with a strong coconut flavor. It was still good though and chicken was crispy. The vibes of this place are super comforting and picturesque. There's plants all around so it's great for pictures and a good amount of seats as well. It is a bit hot in there though but I assume it's for the plants lol. The menu is quite big so I would come back to try some of their other dishes
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Brooke B.

Yelp
Came to this spot because it was convenient for dinner before a show at The Regent. Pleasantly surprised by the great portions and happy hour drink prices! I got the teriyaki chicken bowl-ito and I would definitely order it again! It was great with their hot sauce on it (the sauce it comes with didn't have flavor to me). The spicy salmon on my friends' nachos was lacking in flavor and they reported some minor stomach issues later in the night, so I might stick to chicken and beef when I come here in the future. Other notes are the chicken karaage was a large portion and my friends raved about the fried broccoli. Cute atmosphere, friendly staff and clean bathrooms!
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Ronald M.

Yelp
Bohemian, is how I'd best describe this popular spot in the mist of DTLA's bustling historic core. Right at the intersection of 5th and Main Streets. There's a 24 hr. public lot right next to the building on main; $20.00 for two hours. Their signs warn you "Do Not Pay The Attendant". So make sure you use the automated system in front of the gate. There was a questionable individual, with no teeth, trying to "assist" us, so probably why you are advised to only use the meter. Later while seated inside, we saw this same guy, through the restaurant's large picture windows, running and dodging traffic while crossing at a red light. Which brings me to the ambiance and decor of this spot. An abundance of plants and flowers throughout, but those large picture windows and frames are filthy. Everything else however appeared quite acceptable, with regular wipe downs of each table. So choose a table, with a mix of benches and chairs, after ordering up front. Or, take a menu, have a seat and make a choice before ordering at the counter. They'll call your number when your meal is ready. Your drinks will be brought by them to your table. Now on to the food and drinks. Very good for the most part. My apple mint lemonade and her mint lemonade were both extremely flavorful and refreshing. The fish & chips; with white fish and wonton chips were quite tasty and a different take on fish & "chips". Their tartar sauce was a plus as well. We also ordered the fried broccoli (tempura), that was just enough for the two of us. Delicious! The last order was the chicken plate; teriyaki chicken, 4 spicy salmon rolls, salad, rice, and a mini desert sample with brownie and cookies. My only dislike was the teriyaki chicken. A bit harsh in my opinion, though my wife was fine with them. An interesting venture into this bustling part of downtown's historic core. It had been awhile.
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Sarah W.

Yelp
Friendly service, pretty interior with lots of plants. Order at the counter and self-serve/self-bus. Limited street parking. Food is solid, feels healthy but still filling. Comes with little treats (cookies, pastries, etc).
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Eriko M.

Yelp
Went for Saturday lunch. Got the garlic albacore sashimi salad. Asked for no jalapeños. They gave me jalapeños. The albacore was very stringy and fibrous. And there was this mysterious old dehydrated piece of green?! Used to be good. Very disappointed with my experience.
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Taylor K.

Yelp
Yuko's kitchen is one of the last heathy, delicious and affordable places in downtown LA with huge portions. You can expect to have leftovers if you order a plate or a bowl. I ordered the salmon bowl and it was packed full of greens, sushi rice, and nicely splices of salmon with pickled veggies. You order at the counter and the napkins and everything is self serve. It's a wonderful decorated and cozy space filled with plants. This is definitely top tier inspo for a plant filled studio space
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Berta B.

Yelp
This restaurant is a plant lovers paradise! As soon as you start walking in to the restaurant all you see is green plants everywhere! The restaurant has a cozy and homey feel to it. The decor in this place is truly unique. I noticed that some of their plants are for sale, so if you are looking for a new plant this might be a good place to get it from. The plants in here look happy and green. The food was good. I loved the sushi! So fresh and the salmon was delicious. I ordered their chicken plate which comes with chicken, rice, sushi, salad, a small cup of soup and dessert. They also sell different types of cookies, white flavors such as matcha or chocolate. The service was nice. We ordered our food at the register and they brought it out to our table. Once we were don't eating we had to put out dirty dishes in a container. Overall we had a great time experience.
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Lulu G.

Yelp
YUKO Kitchen is a bright, plant-filled oasis in the heart of LA that serves up tasty, casual Japanese-inspired eats in a laid-back, artsy setting. The vibe is very fresh and inviting--think lots of greenery, natural light, and hipster charm that makes it feel like a hidden gem. It's a go-to spot for sushi bowls, wraps, and other light, flavorful dishes that hit the spot without feeling heavy. Everything I've tried has been super tasty, with great balance in flavors and portion sizes. Heads up: it can get busy, especially during peak hours, so tables might be hard to snag right away. A little patience goes a long way, though--it's worth the wait for the food and ambiance. Perfect for a casual lunch, a relaxed dinner with friends, or even a solo work session if you grab a quiet corner.
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Mutya B.

Yelp
Yuko was our third choice schlepping around DTLA and we walked to two other restaurants that were either too cramped/dark, or full (wait was 45min) The pics of their existing Yelp profile reminds me of Aoyama Flower Market Teahouse in Tokyo - but more punk rock. I was pretty keen on checking out Yuko because their inside decor boasted of plants and greenery (some of which, i later learned, are for sale too), high ceilings, and brightly painted art on the walls. We walked a couple of short blocks from where we parked by Broadway, but would not recommend doing this alone at night because there were a couple of bums on the street settling down. I was walking with my two boy cousins visiting from out of town, and while they're fully grown, they themselves felt more apprehensive being in that part of LA after dark. hahah! We had some rice bowls (curry chicken for me, spicy salmon and poke for the cousins) and enjoyed it a lot. My son had some karaage. The flavors were great except my chicken was just a tad tougher than I'd like. My kid spilled a ton of water but the staff were super nice to help us clean it up. A lady in a wheelchair sitting behind my child decided to move tables tho (sorry!). While it is a small restaurant I really liked the whole low key vibe and is a cute 5th date - dinner date idea. Unless your partner is too fancy, do bring them here! Parking : I don't believe you could park on the street directly outside the restaurant, but I saw there is plenty of parking behind it on Main St. We parked somewhere around Broadway and walked a good couple of blocks. :)
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liz g.

Yelp
Pretty yummy. I lovedddd the tofu and broccoli tempura. Had a weird interaction with the cashier, where they were somewhat micro aggressive towards me but other than that great experience. Lots of seating and cute atmosphere with lots of plants!
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Sarah L.

Yelp
Wow this place was beyond my expectations! Had it bookmarked for awhile after seeing it on social media, had to try since it was in the DTLA area. It's a beautiful cafe decorated with fun colors and plants! They have a large menu, I had a hard time deciding. Ordered the spicy salmon bowl and it was huge! Was super surprised, was definitely not expecting such a large portion for $20. It was super yummy and not heavy! Really great rice to veggie to fish ratio. Loved the poached egg and crunchy tempura! Also loved the large pieces of fried garlic and dressing. Green milk tea was good, good matcha flavor! Boba was okay. Of course had to get some sweet treats, again, had a hard time deciding which baked good. Love matcha and sesame so the cookie and brownie were perfect! Not too sweet, nutty flavor, and soo soft. Service was great! Super kind staff and food came timely. Appreciate their sustainability efforts, trying to encourage reusable utensils. Lots of seating, you might just have to wait until someone leaves. There's also a narrow patio seating in front, but it's facing the street and not as pleasant. Definitely try to enjoy your meal inside!
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Lily L.

Yelp
Super cute spot in downtown la! Massive menu with soooo many options and a ton of variety (noodles, rice bowls, sushi rolls, and apps). Ambience inside is really delightful and you can buy plants from them as well! Service was pretty speedy even though there were a few people ahead of us.

Rebecca L.

Yelp
Honestly I'm just rating this place based off food. Service was prompt and attentive. Place inside is really nice and green, nice escape from the city. Food was eyy. I ordered the teriyaki chicken bowl and I was like damn was this frozen and just reheated? The chicken was super dry and just tasted like it was reheated. I liked the little salad that came with the bowl, but I'm here for the chicken in the bowl ya know. I probably would pass on this place, as I usually go to places for food not aesthetic alone. Although I didn't try anything else, but ya this didn't do it for me.
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Pankaj R.

Yelp
I love this spot. I missed going after moving my office out of DTLA I try to visit every time I'm in the area. Sad that the city hasn't done more to control the homeless issue around the restaurant but they handle it well and the food is still amazing! I always for for the poke salad. Their soups are good too.
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Maritza V.

Yelp
I'm writing this review on behalf of my sister, who had a disappointing experience at Yuko Kitchen. She went in March 10, walked up to the counter, and asked for some cookies. The girl at the register (brown hair, tattoos, rhinestones on her teeth) rang her up before getting her the cookies. My sister didn't think tipping was necessary since she was just buying cookies at the counter. Apparently, this didn't sit well with the cashier because, after noticing my sister didn't tip, she made sure to give her the stalest cookies possible and even wrote "thanks for tipping" on the receipt pure pettiness. I'm not sure what kind of establishment allows their employees to essentially bully customers into tipping, but this is completely unacceptable. Tips are for service, not for simply handing someone pre-made cookies.
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Brent N.

Yelp
I have tried the minced beef rice bowl, the sashimi salad, the albacore bowl, the teriyaki chicken bowl, and the curry with tofu. Favorite dish overall is the curry with tofu. The curry has deep flavors and it comes with an interesting assortment of veggies. The bowls essentially come as meat on top of rice and a fairly large salad on the side. Cookies and deserts are moist and yummy. Everything is fresh, the takeout is always correct, and the ingredients seem high quality. Portions are also generous. I pick up dinner from here once or twice a week now.
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Michael B.

Yelp
When I tell you I was GOBSMACKED by how amazing this place is, I am not kidding! Easily one of THE BEST meals I've had all year (and I'm not exaggerating). This place is such a vibe, down to the array of house plants that surround you to the chill vibe staff, you feel like you're transported to a whole new world, or like the coolest greenhouse ever. I had the FISH PLATE, as recommended by one of the staff members (which I believe to be the owner). She was so sweet in helping me choose what to order. I was a little peaked by the price at first because it was well over $20 dollars, but when my plate arrived, I clearly knew why. This thing was such a HUGE portion and there's love and care in every bite. I didn't know I'd get a 3-course meal in one plate. I honestly thought that I wouldn't be able to finish it, but boy I did! It not only came with a salad, but a side of their spicy salmon roll, their soup of the day (which I believe was some sort of squash that was puréed), and of course the fish itself, which oddly tasted more like orange chicken? That crunchy breading with this delicious sweet and sour-y glaze that brings it all together. I wasn't mad about it I'll tell you that. Oh, it was also happy hour, so I got their strawberry soda lemonade with boba for only $4, which was the perfect thing to wash it all down with. Plus--they threw in these small matcha cookie bites to finish it off. Like, hello? If you love me, just say that. Overall, I am most DEFINITELY coming back to this place. You get what you pay for and it really is worth every penny. This place is perfect for any plant-eaters as well.
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Eva C.

Yelp
Yuko Kitchen is delicious and a healthy alternative to have once in a while! You can't go wrong with any dish here, as they all have their unique flavors that give them character. The drinks are up to par with the food as well. The one thing I'm not too fond of are the cookies though, but they are still good! The service was very minimal, just when ordering food, but I had a positive experience! You do self-bus your table! The many plants that adorn the restaurant create a welcoming and healing environment where you can enjoy a nice meal. This is definitely a MUST try!
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Gary I.

Yelp
I can imagine that both Yūko Kitchens were established by a 1960's Hippie from Tōkyō. The downtown LA version is a green oasis of calm surrounded by a concrete jungle where indoor plants are everywhere. It's like dining in a tropical glade in the midst of a bustling, cacophonous, big city. Inside, soothing, soft, quiet music provides white noise to cancel out the outside world.  Line up to the order counter. You usually get to take drinks with you after you order. They call your number so you can pick up your food. Be sure to bring the numbered plastic card up to the pick up table for verification.  1) Fish & Chips: White fish "fingers" coated in basically flour & water batter which comes out soft & bready and not light & crunchy. Perhaps puting in corn starch will lighten the batter for a crispier texture.  The chips are crisp fried wheat won ton "skins". Tartar sauce is a bit bland. More chopped pickles, touch of hot sauce would add more liveliness.  2) Chicken Kara Agè/Japanese fried chicken seems marinated in ginger, sweetened Shōyu/soy sauce, bit of Japanese rice vinegar to create an agrodolce/sweet sourness.  Huge chunks of moist, hearty chicken, generous portion. A spicy tomato ketchup if the subtle original flavouring is not enough.  3) Small salad is another good portion. I didn't want salad dressing since the salad was to serve as a palate cleanser to the fried foods.  1-3a  Summer Iced Tea cocktail is slightly sweetened, light alcohol from possibly Japanese Shōchū which is like a lower alcohol Vodka. Kind of similar to Long Island Iced Tea at least in flavour.  3b) Strawberry Soda is lemonade, puréed strawberry, sparking soda. Refreshing, lightly acidic and not too sweet.  4) Almond Crunchy Cookie: Big oat meal flakes, crushed nuts, small chunks of naturally sweet, dried fruits. Organic, grassfed whole milk was very complementary.  5) Ultimate Flourless Chocolate Cookie: Reminds me of a chocolate lava cake. Initially bit gritty then kind of gooey & smooth. The rich chocolate overwhelms your mouth and lingers on. Good bitter black coffee or tea would be a great pairing.  You can clear your table and bus your own dinner ware to shelves near the front entrance. There is a trash bin for any food wastes.  Food here is closer to 3+, but the calm, green space at Yūko is very inviting, theraputic, healing. The young lady at the counter was very helpful when I had too much to carry to take back to the table.  Sometimes it's not only the food but the atmosphere & service that takes a restaurant to a higher star.   4- stars.
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Marilyn P.

Yelp
The interior design was really cool, with lots of bright colors and plants everywhere. One thing to note is that it's a little warm in there because of the plants. The amazing curry rice bowl was a 10/10 and one of the best curries I've had. It had a nice little kick of spice in it too. My friend also liked his salmon rice bowl as well. The portion sizes are big and we both only finished half of our meal. Service was good and I'd come for the curry again.
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Ashley S.

Yelp
We ate from Yuko twice during our brief trip to LA last weekend. It was probably the top two best food we had the entire trip! The restaurant itself was covered (literally) with plants which I loved as a plant parent myself. The food came quickly and the people there were so hospitable and chill. During both visits, we ordered the: - Cucumber mimosa- sweet and could not taste any alcohol - Mint and Apple Mint lemonades- both refreshing and packed with mint, slush almost - Garlicky Shrimp Rice Bowl- The best thing since sliced bread! This vegetable packed bowl had greens, rice, shrimp, garlic, zucchini, tomatoes, and more. It was lightly coated with a tangy dressing. The first time we shared it, the second time we had to get our own because it was so good. - Fish and Chips- the fish was good, the chips were regular. - Shrimp Tempura Roll- tasted fresh and goes well with the Ponzu sauce - Sweet Onion Rice Bowl- radish were the star of this bowl. Pop into this unique place if ever in LA!

Daniel L.

Yelp
Food is always fresh. The service is always friendly & helpful. The strawberry matcha chocolate chip cookies are amazing as well. Nice ambiance with all the plants around.
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Nikki W.

Yelp
Ordered teriyaki chicken to go for lunch today and it's probably the best teriyaki chicken I've ever had. It was so delicious and the portions are huge I ate half now and I'll have the rest for dinner.
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Josef K.

Yelp
Great place, great food, great ambiance, thoughtful service and they also cook to order to fit my low-sodium diet.
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Stacee S.

Yelp
So glad my friend told me about Yuko Kitchen! I love all the plants and the decor. The surrounding area is a little rough (lots of unhoused people) but inside, Yuko is a beautiful plant-filled oasis. They even have plants for sale on the middle table! Loved the chicken plate because it had a little of everything (I mean, mini dessert, come on!) I wasn't a huge fan of the spicy salmon roll but that's a me problem, not a Yuko problem lol (I just don't like the texture of raw salmon). I saw a picture where someone had a different roll so next time I'm going to ask if they can switch it out. Oh! Also $3 beer for happy hour!
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Steph J.

Yelp
such a cute place to study at, incredible ambiance!! i ordered a matcha marshmallow brownie and it's very delicious. service was decent and the seating is good.
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Hayley H.

Yelp
The perfect spot for those with a green thumb. We recently spent a friend day exploring the streets of Los Angeles. Out of all the spots we visited Yuko's Kitchen was my favorite. This health focused restaurant serves up incredible Asian-influenced eats, including items like sushi, rice bowls and bowlrittos - large sushi rolls in burrito form. I ordered the white fish tempura roll, which was stacked with fish, crab, and avocado. My friends chicken and rice dish was served in an abnormally large sized bowl. This item was big enough for 2-3 meals. I tried a piece of the chicken and it was superb! Yuko's Kitchen also doubles as a plant shop. The store is filled with floor to ceiling plants, both common and rare species. Each plant is available for purchase if you're looking to expand your collection while grabbing a bite!

Amy P.

Yelp
I ate here a year ago and dreamed about their curry every night. It's so so delicious!!! I highly recommend anything there!!!