Rice & Nori

For those living in or visiting California, the search for authentic, quick, and delicious Japanese food can lead to many exciting discoveries. Among them, Rice & Nori stands out as a unique and beloved destination, particularly for its dedication to the art of onigiri. More than just a rice ball, onigiri are a staple of Japanese cuisine – a comforting, portable, and versatile meal or snack made from white rice, typically formed into triangular or cylindrical shapes and often wrapped in nori (seaweed). They are celebrated for their convenience and often represent a gesture of kindness, a lovingly prepared meal for someone on the go.

Rice & Nori, located in the heart of Los Angeles’s vibrant Little Tokyo, has become a go-to spot for locals seeking a genuine taste of Japan. While some might be familiar with their Pasadena branch, this specific location offers a convenient and accessible option for those in the downtown area. Known for freshly made, generously filled onigiri and hand rolls, Rice & Nori provides a perfect solution for a quick bite, a satisfying lunch, or a casual dinner, all at a reasonable price point. The restaurant prides itself on ensuring that each onigiri is packed with flavor, showcasing a delightful balance of rice and filling that keeps customers coming back for more.

Rice & Nori is perfectly situated in the bustling and culturally rich district of Little Tokyo, Los Angeles. You can find this delightful Japanese eatery at 123 Astronaut Ellison S Onizuka St UNIT 103, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA. Its prime location makes it an ideal stop for anyone exploring the historical and modern attractions of Little Tokyo, or for those simply passing through Downtown LA.

One of the significant advantages for local Californians planning a visit to Rice & Nori is the convenient accessibility. The restaurant understands the urban challenges of parking in a busy area and offers 15 minutes of free validated parking. This thoughtful amenity allows for a stress-free experience, whether you're quickly grabbing takeout or settling in for a casual dine-in meal. Additionally, being in Little Tokyo, the restaurant is well-served by public transportation options, making it easily reachable for those who prefer to leave their cars at home. Its central location makes it a highly accessible culinary destination for a wide range of Angelenos.

Rice & Nori specializes in providing a focused yet diverse menu centered around fresh, authentic Japanese offerings. Their services are designed for convenience and quality:

• Freshly Made Onigiri: The star of their menu, onigiri are made fresh to order, ensuring perfect texture and flavor. They offer a wide variety of fillings, catering to different tastes and dietary needs.
• Hand Rolls: Alongside their renowned onigiri, Rice & Nori also serves a selection of hand rolls, providing another popular and delicious Japanese option.
• Vegan-Friendly Options: Recognizing diverse dietary preferences, Rice & Nori offers specific vegan onigiri options, making it a welcoming spot for plant-based diners. Examples include Shiitake Kombu and Spicy Miso Eggplant onigiri.
• Quick Service for Takeout: Ideal for those on the go, the restaurant is well-suited for quick takeout orders, perfect for a fast lunch break or a convenient dinner.
• Dine-In Experience: While perfect for a quick bite, Rice & Nori also offers a casual and comfortable setting for dine-in customers. It's a great spot for a relaxed meal.
• Catering Services: For events or larger gatherings, Rice & Nori may offer catering, allowing you to bring their delicious Japanese fare to your special occasions.
• Online Ordering & Delivery: For ultimate convenience, Rice & Nori partners with various delivery platforms such as Postmates and Uber Eats, allowing customers to enjoy their food from the comfort of their home or office.

What sets Rice & Nori apart and makes it a favorite among its patrons? It's a combination of key features that contribute to a consistently satisfying experience:

• Generously Filled Onigiri: A consistent highlight mentioned by customers is the ample amount of filling in each onigiri. This ensures every bite is flavorful and satisfying, rather than just rice.
• Fresh Ingredients: The emphasis on fresh ingredients is evident in the taste of their onigiri and hand rolls. This commitment to quality is crucial for Japanese cuisine.
• Allergy-Friendly Options: Rice & Nori is considerate of common allergies, notably stating that they do not use peanuts in their food, which is a significant plus for many customers.
• Variety of Flavors: From traditional options like salmon and tuna mayonnaise to unique creations such as eggplant miso and mushroom onigiri, there’s a wide array of flavors to explore. Popular choices include Spam & Egg, Salmon Yuzu Miso, and Spicy Lobster Shrimp onigiri.
• Decently Priced: Despite the high quality and generous portions, Rice & Nori is recognized for its affordable pricing, making it an excellent value for authentic Japanese food in Los Angeles.
• Convenient Location with Parking: As mentioned, the Little Tokyo location combined with 15 minutes of free validated parking significantly enhances the customer experience.
• Spacious Dining Area: The restaurant offers ample seating, making it suitable for groups and ensuring a comfortable dining experience even during peak hours.

Rice & Nori occasionally offers promotions and special deals, providing excellent value for their popular items. While specific offers can change, it's worth noting their consistent availability of set meals that bundle multiple items at a reduced price. For example, they frequently feature:

• Onigiri Sets: Look for combinations like the "2 Onigiri Set" or "3 Onigiri Set," which often include a choice of onigiri, a side (such as edamame or miso soup), and a pickle. These sets are designed to offer a complete and satisfying meal at an attractive price.
• Hand Roll Sets: Similarly, they have "3 Hand Roll Set" and "5 Hand Roll Set" options that allow you to choose a selection of hand rolls, often accompanied by sides like edamame and sashimi. These are fantastic for sampling a variety of their fresh rolls.
• "Buy 1, Get 1 Free" (BOGO) Specials: On occasion, they feature BOGO deals on specific onigiri or hand roll items, which can be found through their online delivery platforms. These are usually limited to one per customer per order.

To stay updated on the most current promotions and special offers, it is recommended to check their active online ordering platforms (like Uber Eats or Postmates) or follow their social media channels, as these are often where new deals are announced. Visiting in person can also reveal any in-store-only specials.

Planning your next delicious Japanese meal at Rice & Nori?

Address: 123 Astronaut Ellison S Onizuka St UNIT 103, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA

Phone: (213) 628-3114

For inquiries, placing orders, or confirming current hours and specials, don't hesitate to give them a call. They are open seven days a week from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, making it easy to fit a visit into your schedule.

For Californians, particularly those residing in or frequently visiting Los Angeles, Rice & Nori offers an ideal solution for convenient, authentic, and high-quality Japanese cuisine. It addresses the common local need for a quick, delicious, and affordable meal without compromising on taste or authenticity. The restaurant’s specialization in onigiri—a beloved and traditional Japanese comfort food—provides a refreshing alternative to standard sushi rolls, making it a unique culinary stop.

The transparent approach to ingredients, including clear allergy information like the absence of peanuts, makes it a reliable choice for those with dietary concerns. The variety of options, from classic fillings to vegan-friendly choices, ensures there's something for everyone. Furthermore, the strategic location in Little Tokyo, combined with the much-appreciated offer of free validated parking, significantly enhances its appeal, removing a common urban dining hurdle.

Whether you're looking for a quick lunch during a busy workday, a satisfying snack while exploring Little Tokyo, or a casual dinner with friends, Rice & Nori delivers. Its commitment to freshly made, generously filled items at a reasonable price point firmly establishes it as a suitable and highly recommended Japanese restaurant for any local Californian seeking an authentic and enjoyable meal.

Rice & Nori

123 Astronaut Ellison S Onizuka St UNIT 103, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA