Mitsuru Sushi & Grill

For Californians seeking a taste of authentic, no-frills Japanese comfort food with a side of nostalgic charm, Mitsuru Sushi & Grill in Los Angeles's historic Little Tokyo is a true institution. This "retro restaurant," as many describe it, has been a fixture in the community for decades, consistently serving up traditional Japanese dishes that resonate with a comforting, homemade feel. While the name includes "Sushi & Grill," Mitsuru is particularly celebrated for its hearty, classic Japanese fare like its "excellent Sukiyaki," crispy Tonkatsu, and other Japanese diner staples. It's the kind of place where the focus is genuinely on satisfying flavors and a welcoming atmosphere, rather than elaborate presentations or trendy fusion. Whether you're an early riser looking for a unique Japanese breakfast, or a local craving a well-prepared, traditional lunch or dinner, Mitsuru Sushi & Grill offers a dependable and delightful culinary journey back to the roots of Japanese home cooking.

Mitsuru Sushi & Grill is prominently located at 316 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA. This places it squarely in the heart of Little Tokyo, a vibrant and culturally rich district in Downtown Los Angeles. Little Tokyo is known for its pedestrian-friendly streets, unique shops, and, of course, its abundance of authentic Japanese restaurants, making Mitsuru easily discoverable for those exploring the area.

Being situated on 1st Street, a main thoroughfare in Little Tokyo, Mitsuru enjoys good visibility and is quite accessible. For those arriving by car, Little Tokyo offers several public parking structures, including the Aiso Street Parking lot (101 N. Judge John Aiso Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012), which is often cited as the "nearest parking lot" to Mitsuru Sushi & Grill. This underground lot offers competitive rates, including flat rates after 5:00 PM, and is just a short walk away. Additionally, there are often metered street parking options in the vicinity, though these can be harder to come by during peak hours. For public transit users, Little Tokyo is well-served by Metro lines, with several stations within walking distance, further enhancing its accessibility for a wide range of Angelenos.

Mitsuru Sushi & Grill offers a broad menu that spans traditional Japanese comfort food, catering to various meal times from breakfast to dinner.

• Traditional Japanese Breakfast: A unique offering, Mitsuru opens early to serve breakfast with options like:

  • Two Eggs (Any Style) served with toast and hash browns or rice.

  • Hot Cakes and French Toast.

  • Various Omelets (Cheese, Spam, Bacon, Sausage, Vegetable, Tofu), served with toast and hash browns or rice.

  • Gaches (a Little Tokyo favorite) - meat scrambled with eggs & vegetables, served with toast & hash browns or rice.

• Extensive Lunch & Dinner Menus: A wide selection of classic Japanese dishes, including:

  • Sukiyaki: Highlighted by customers as "excellent," this traditional Japanese hot pot dish typically features thinly sliced meat (beef, chicken, or pork) simmered with vegetables and other ingredients in a savory-sweet soy sauce broth. Offered as an entrée and as part of a "Sukiyaki Dinner" combo with tempura or sashimi.

  • Cutlet Entrées (Katsu): Including the highly praised "Tonkatsu" (pork cutlet) which customers describe as "delicious, not dry at all." Also likely includes Chicken Katsu and other breaded and fried cutlets.

  • Teriyaki Entrées: Classic grilled options like Chicken Teriyaki, Beef Teriyaki, and others, typically served with rice and miso soup.

  • Shioyaki Entrées: Salt-grilled fish, such as Saba Shioyaki (salted mackerel), and Grilled Salmon/Trout.

  • Donburi (Rice Bowls): Various toppings served over rice, such as Katsu Donburi, Oyako Donburi (chicken and egg), Tempura Donburi, Unagi Donburi (eel), and Salmon Donburi.

  • Noodles: A selection of Udon and Soba noodles, including Tempura Udon and Nabeyaki Udon.

  • Sushi & Sashimi: Despite the "Sushi" in its name, their offering leans towards traditional nigiri and basic rolls (California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, Tekka Maki), rather than elaborate modern creations, fitting the retro vibe. Sashimi mixes are also available.

  • Salads: Including fresh options like Salmon Skin Salad (described as "delicious"), Tuna Salad, and various green salads.

  • Combination Dinners: Providing a choice of main dishes with complementary items like tempura or sashimi for a more comprehensive meal.

  • American Diner Classics: Reflecting its retro "diner" feel, the menu also includes American options like hamburgers, sandwiches (e.g., Tuna Melt, Clubhouse), and French fries.

  • Takeout: Customers can order food "to go," maintaining the convenience for those on the move.

  Features / Highlights

  Mitsuru Sushi & Grill distinguishes itself in Los Angeles's vibrant Japanese dining scene through several unique features and highlights, as noted by its loyal customer base.

  • Authentic "Retro Restaurant" Vibe: A defining characteristic is its enduring "retro restaurant" ambiance. This isn't a modern, minimalist Japanese eatery; it evokes a charming, decades-old diner feel that transports patrons back in time. This distinct atmosphere is a major draw for those seeking a genuine, unpretentious dining experience. It's been a "fixture in Little Tokyo for 40 years," contributing to its authentic and established presence.

  • Traditional Japanese Comfort Food Excellence: Mitsuru is celebrated for its commitment to "traditional Japanese" dishes, specifically its comfort food offerings. The "Sukiyaki was excellent!" and the "tonkatsu to go... was delicious, not dry at all" are standout examples. Other dishes like "salmon skin salad was delicious," and the omelet and tuna salad are consistently "well done," emphasizing the quality and satisfying nature of their classic preparations.

  • Friendly Staff and Welcoming Service: Despite occasional comments about serving speed, customers consistently praise the staff, noting that "staff is friendly too" and the "service was friendly." This warm and inviting approach contributes significantly to the overall pleasant dining experience, making customers feel at home.

  • Breakfast Options: A rare and appealing highlight for a Japanese restaurant is Mitsuru's extensive breakfast menu. Offering both traditional Japanese breakfast items (like Gaches – scrambled eggs with meat and veggies) and American diner classics (like omelets and pancakes), it provides a unique early morning dining destination in Little Tokyo. Mitsuru opens for breakfast at 9:00 am on weekdays and 8:00 am on weekends.

  • "Hidden Gem" Quality for Some: While well-known in Little Tokyo, some reviews hint at its "hidden gem" quality, suggesting that new visitors who "explore this place based on Google review" are pleasantly surprised by its authentic charm and solid food, often becoming repeat customers.

  • Central Little Tokyo Location: Its prime spot on 1st Street in Little Tokyo makes it an accessible and convenient choice for shoppers, tourists, and local residents exploring the vibrant cultural district.

  Promotions or Special Offers

  Mitsuru Sushi & Grill, while a traditional establishment, does offer specific deals and value propositions, particularly around its lunch and happy hour services, making it an attractive option for locals in Los Angeles.

  • Lunch Specials: A key highlight is their "lunch special," which customers confirm offers "decently good" food. These specials typically provide a combination of various dishes at a set, often more affordable, price point. Locals looking for a value-packed midday meal should inquire about their current lunch special offerings.

  • Happy Hour: Mitsuru Sushi & Grill explicitly advertises a "happy hour" where patrons can "drop in for a drink and snack." While specific details aren't widely published, happy hours at such establishments often feature discounted beverages (like beer and sake) and a selection of appetizers or smaller sushi items. This is a great opportunity for locals to enjoy a lighter, more economical experience.

  • Combination Dinners: While not a temporary "special," Mitsuru's menu includes "Combination Dinners" that allow diners to choose a main protein (beef, chicken, or pork) paired with options like tempura or sashimi. These combos provide a comprehensive meal experience, often at a better value than ordering à la carte, appealing to those who want variety without a hefty price tag.

  • Breakfast Specials: Given their unique breakfast service, it's highly probable that Mitsuru offers specific "Breakfast Specials" which provide a bundled meal at a good price, attracting early morning diners.

  To get the most current and specific details on Mitsuru Sushi & Grill's promotions, including lunch specials and happy hour timings, it is recommended that locals visit the restaurant directly, check their website (if available), or look for updated information on popular local dining guides or review platforms.

  Contact Information

  To experience the traditional Japanese comfort food and retro charm of Mitsuru Sushi & Grill, here's how you can get in touch:

  • Address: 316 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA

  • Phone: (213) 626-4046

  • Mobile Phone: +1 213-626-4046

  • Website/Online Presence: While a dedicated official website might be limited, Mitsuru Sushi & Grill has a presence on various dining platforms like Downtown LA's official guide (downtownla.com/go/mitsuru-sushi-grill) and Uber Eats for menu and online ordering. Review sites like Yelp and Google Maps also provide updated information and customer reviews.

  • Operating Hours (as of recent information, subject to change):

    • Monday: Closed (confirm on external sites)

    • Tuesday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Breakfast starts at 9:00 AM)

    • Saturday: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Breakfast starts at 8:00 AM)

    • Sunday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Breakfast starts at 8:00 AM)

  It's always a good idea to call ahead to confirm hours, especially on holidays or for specific dining needs, as information can sometimes vary across different online sources for long-standing establishments.

  Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

  For locals in Los Angeles, especially those living in or frequently visiting the vibrant Little Tokyo district, Mitsuru Sushi & Grill is an exceptionally suitable and appealing dining destination. It stands as a cherished "retro restaurant," offering a genuine slice of traditional Japanese comfort food that has been satisfying Angelenos for decades.

  What makes Mitsuru particularly suitable for locals is its authentic, unpretentious atmosphere. It's a place where you can step in and feel a sense of familiarity, as if you've entered a classic Japanese diner right out of a bygone era. This consistent, time-honored approach to dining is a refreshing contrast to the ever-evolving culinary landscape of LA, providing a reliable and comforting experience.

  The food itself is a major draw for local palates. The "excellent Sukiyaki," crispy and "not dry at all" Tonkatsu, and delicious salmon skin salad highlight their mastery of traditional preparations. Whether you're craving a hearty, savory meal for lunch or dinner, or looking for a unique Japanese-style breakfast, Mitsuru delivers flavorful dishes that feel like home cooking. The "friendly staff" further enhances the experience, making every visit a pleasant one, even if the "serving speed is a bit slow" during off-peak times – a small trade-off for freshly prepared, authentic fare.

  Its central location in Little Tokyo, with accessible parking options, makes it a convenient choice for residents across the city. Mitsuru Sushi & Grill isn't just a restaurant; it's a piece of Los Angeles's culinary history, offering a delicious, comforting, and consistently authentic Japanese dining experience that truly resonates with the local community.

Mitsuru Sushi & Grill

316 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA