Izakaya Go Los Angeles Introduce
For those of us in Los Angeles who cherish authentic Japanese dining experiences beyond just sushi, Izakaya Go Los Angeles stands as a must-visit destination in the heart of Little Tokyo. An Izakaya, for the uninitiated, is a type of informal Japanese bar that serves alcoholic drinks and snacks, akin to a pub or tapas bar. Izakaya Go perfectly embodies this spirit, offering a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of a local gem you might discover in Tokyo itself. It's a place where friends gather, drinks flow, and a diverse menu of meticulously crafted Japanese dishes invites exploration and sharing.
Located in one of our city's most culturally rich neighborhoods, Izakaya Go prides itself on bringing genuine Japanese comfort food to our doorstep. Their extensive menu goes far beyond the usual sushi rolls, delving into a world of grilled items, unique appetizers, and hearty entrees that showcase the depth and variety of Japanese cuisine. What truly sets Izakaya Go apart is its commitment to bold flavors and traditional techniques, ensuring that whether you're trying their grilled Miso Cod or their acclaimed yakitori skewers, each dish delivers an authentic and memorable taste.
The atmosphere at Izakaya Go is often described as both casual and trendy, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed dinner with a group, allowing everyone to share and sample different dishes. This communal dining style, combined with friendly service, contributes to an overall experience that feels both exciting and welcoming. For us Angelenos seeking a true taste of Japan in a lively setting, Izakaya Go Los Angeles offers an unparalleled culinary journey.
Izakaya Go Los Angeles is perfectly situated at 136 S Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA. This address places it squarely within the vibrant and historic Little Tokyo neighborhood, a central and culturally significant district in downtown Los Angeles. Its location on South Central Avenue makes it easily accessible and a natural stop for anyone exploring the area.
For locals, accessing Little Tokyo is relatively straightforward. Public transportation is a convenient option, with several Metro Rail lines and bus routes serving the area. The Little Tokyo/Arts District Metro station is often just a short walk away, making it easy to visit without needing to drive. This is a significant advantage in a city known for its traffic, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable outing.
For those who prefer to drive, Little Tokyo offers numerous public parking structures and street parking options. While parking in downtown Los Angeles can sometimes require a bit of searching, facilities like the Little Tokyo parking garages are available nearby. It's always a good idea to check parking apps or websites for real-time availability and rates before heading out, especially during busy evenings or weekends. The pedestrian-friendly nature of Little Tokyo also means that once you've parked, strolling to Izakaya Go and exploring the surrounding shops and cultural sites is a pleasant experience.
Izakaya Go Los Angeles offers a comprehensive menu that embodies the spirit of an authentic Japanese Izakaya, featuring a wide range of dishes perfect for sharing and exploring. Their diverse offerings ensure there's something to please every palate:
- Extensive Small Plates and Appetizers: True to its izakaya nature, Izakaya Go excels in its selection of small, shareable dishes. These include traditional items like Edamame (including garlic), Tsukenono (Japanese pickles), and Hiyayakko (cold tofu). Unique options like Yakinasu (grilled eggplant), Dynamite (pan-fried bay scallops with creamy mayo), and Tuna Avocado (diced sashimi and avocado with wasabi soy) are also popular.
- Signature Grilled Dishes (Yakitori and Robata): A major highlight is their grilled selection, showcasing mastery of bold flavors and grill techniques. They offer a wide variety of yakitori skewers (including Jidori chicken meatball, chicken heart, chicken gizzard, chicken skin, chicken liver, cartilage, tail, and negima). Other grilled items include various seafood like Hamachi Kama (yellowtail collar), Salmon Kama (salmon collar), Saba (mackerel), and Hokke (atka mackerel), as well as whole squid (Ikamaru). They also feature charcoal-grilled dishes such as Miso Chilean Sea Bass, Nippon Jidori Chicken, and White Miso Grilled Salmon.
- Premium Sushi and Sashimi: While primarily an Izakaya, they offer a selection of high-quality sushi and sashimi, including chef's choice assortments like Premium Sushi Hachi Mori and Premium Sashimi Hachi Mori. Individual sushi and sashimi pieces like Tuna, Salmon, Yellowtail, Halibut, and even premium seasonal fish like Golden Eye Snapper are available.
- Unique and Innovative Dishes: Customers rave about signature items like the "Miso Cod, grilled to perfection with a flaky, buttery texture bursting with umami flavor," and the "Uni chawanmushi," described as "bursting with delicious flavors." Other unique dishes might include Smoked Beef Tataki and various creative vegetable preparations.
- Hearty Entrees and Bowls: Beyond small plates, they also offer more substantial dishes. These include various Nabe (hot pot) options like Beef Tantan Nabe and Creamy Nagasaki Udon Nabe, as well as classic rice bowls such as Una Don (grilled eel over rice) and Katsu Don.
- Noodles: A selection of noodle dishes like Shio Ramen with Black Truffle Oil, Miso Ramen, Spicy Miso Ramen, Nabeyaki Udon, and Yaki Udon are available.
- Sake and Beverage Program: As an izakaya, a well-curated beverage menu is essential. While specific details aren't listed, it's expected they offer a range of Japanese sakes, beers, and other alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to complement the food.
- Dine-In Experience: Izakaya Go offers a comfortable and lively dine-in setting, perfect for social gatherings and exploring various dishes.
Izakaya Go Los Angeles stands out for several compelling features and highlights that contribute to its popularity and positive reviews:
- Authentic Izakaya Experience: The restaurant aims to transport diners to a local Japanese pub, offering a genuine Izakaya ambiance and style of dining. This authenticity is a major draw for those seeking a true taste of Japan.
- Diverse and Flavorful Menu: Unlike many Japanese restaurants that focus heavily on sushi, Izakaya Go offers an incredibly wide array of dishes, from grilled skewers (yakitori) and various seafood preparations to unique appetizers and comforting noodle dishes. Customers praise the "bold flavors" and the "extensive" menu that impresses with its "food quality."
- Standout Signature Dishes: Specific items consistently receive high praise, such as the "Miso Cod, grilled to perfection," and the "Uni chawanmushi, bursting with delicious flavors." These highlight the kitchen's culinary expertise.
- Cozy Yet Vibrant Atmosphere: The ambiance is frequently mentioned as a positive. It's described as "cozy yet vibrant," "casual and trendy," and "perfect for groups," creating an enjoyable and relaxed dining environment.
- High-Quality Ingredients: The positive feedback on flavor and quality implies a strong commitment to fresh and well-sourced ingredients across their diverse menu.
- Friendly and Attentive Service: While not explicitly detailed, the overall positive dining experience often points to good service. "Everything was on point" can be a good indication of the whole package, including staff.
- Suitable for Sharing and Exploration: The nature of an izakaya with its small plates makes it ideal for sharing, encouraging diners to try a wide variety of dishes and explore different tastes.
Specific daily or weekly promotions for Izakaya Go Los Angeles are not widely advertised through readily available public data. However, many Izakaya-style restaurants, especially in bustling areas like Little Tokyo, often feature certain types of specials that encourage repeat visits or introduce new items. These might include:
- Happy Hour Specials: It's common for izakayas to have a happy hour with discounted drinks (sake, beer, cocktails) and select appetizers, usually during off-peak hours in the late afternoon or late night. It is always a good idea to call the restaurant directly or check their official website/social media channels for current happy hour information.
- Lunch Specials: Some Japanese restaurants offer special bento box or set meal options during lunch hours, providing good value.
- Seasonal Dishes: Given their focus on quality, Izakaya Go might introduce seasonal specials that highlight fresh, in-season ingredients, as is common in Japanese cuisine.
To stay updated on any current promotions, the best approach for locals is to either call Izakaya Go directly at (213) 265-7324 or check their official website and any associated social media profiles if they are actively maintained. While explicit "promotions" aren't listed, their extensive and varied menu already provides a great opportunity for diners to try many different dishes.
For those ready to experience the authentic Japanese flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Izakaya Go Los Angeles, here is their essential contact information:
- Address: 136 S Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA
- Phone: (213) 265-7324
- Mobile Phone: +1 213-265-7324
These contact details provide direct access to the restaurant for inquiries about reservations, menu items, or general information. Its easily locatable address in the heart of Little Tokyo ensures a smooth visit for anyone familiar with downtown Los Angeles.
For us Angelenos, constantly seeking out unique and high-quality dining experiences, Izakaya Go Los Angeles in Little Tokyo emerges as an exceptionally suitable and appealing choice for numerous reasons. It’s more than just a place to eat; it’s an authentic slice of Japanese culinary culture right here in our vibrant city.
Firstly, its prime location on South Central Avenue in the heart of Little Tokyo makes it incredibly accessible for locals across the vast expanse of Los Angeles. Whether you’re commuting by Metro or driving (with readily available parking structures nearby), getting to Izakaya Go is convenient, allowing for a spontaneous weeknight meal or a planned weekend outing in a culturally rich neighborhood.
Secondly, and perhaps most importantly, the food itself is a standout. Izakaya Go offers a much broader and more authentic Japanese experience than just sushi, delving deep into the diverse world of izakaya cuisine. From expertly grilled yakitori skewers to the highly praised Miso Cod and the unique Uni chawanmushi, the menu is designed for exploration and sharing, perfectly suiting our desire for varied and communal dining. The commitment to "bold flavors" and high "food quality" means that every dish promises a memorable taste experience.
The "cozy yet vibrant" atmosphere, coupled with what is implied to be friendly service, creates a welcoming and unpretentious environment that encourages diners to relax and enjoy. It’s ideal for a casual date night, a gathering with friends, or simply a solo culinary adventure. For any local seeking an authentic, flavorful, and diverse Japanese dining experience that transcends the ordinary, Izakaya Go Los Angeles is a definite must-try. It truly embodies the spirit of a cherished neighborhood gem.
Izakaya Go Los Angeles Food & drink
Unfiltered & Miscellaneous Sake, にごり酒・特別酒
- Nigori (Shochikubai US$15.00
- Kubota Junmai Ginjo Nigori US$45.00
- Ikezo Sparkling Jelly Sake
- Mio Sparkling US$23.00
- Hakutsuru Plum Wine US$28.00
- House Sake
Beer, 生ビール
- Sapporo
- Suntory Premium Malts
Craft Beer, クラフトビール
- Coedo
- Marihana
- Kyara
- Shikkoku
- Ruri
- Shiro
- Beniaka
Special Menu
- Japanose Eggplant Salad
- Ocean Trout Sashimis2000
Others
- Chicken Wings US$4.25
- Chicken Wings (Teriyaki US$4.75
- Chicken Meat Ball US$3.95
- Tenderloin W/Wasabi US$3.95
- Tenderloin W/Yuzu US$3.95
- Tenderloin W/Spicy Cod Roe US$3.75
- Tenderloin W/Ume Shiso US$3.95
- Chicken Gizzard US$3.95
- Chicken Liver US$3.95
- Chicken Heart US$3.95
- Beef US$4.95
- Beef Tongue US$5.95
- A5 Wagyu US$14.95
- Lamb Chop Garlie US$7.95
- Lamb Chop Yuzu US$7.95
- Pork Belly US$3.95
- Black Pork Sausage US$2.95
- Scallop US$4.95
- Shrimp US$3.95
- Asparagus US$2.95
- オクラ
- Potato US$3.50
- Japanese Eggplant US$3.25
- Japanese Shiitake Mushroom US$3.75
- 「しいたけの肉詰めポン酢 US$7.95
Izakaya Go Los Angeles Details
From the business
- Identifies as Asian-owned
Service options
- Kerbside pickup
- Takeaway
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Highlights
- Sport
Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
- Wheelchair-accessible toilet
- Assistive hearing loop
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Comfort food
- Happy-hour drinks
- Happy-hour food
- Late-night food
- Organic dishes
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Dinner
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
Amenities
- Bar on site
- Gender-neutral toilets
- Toilet
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Crowd
- Family friendly
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safe space
Planning
- Reservations required
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Parking
- On-site parking
- Paid multi-storey car park
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Izakaya Go Los Angeles Photos
Izakaya Go Los Angeles Location
Izakaya Go Los Angeles
136 S Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA
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