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Japanese RestaurantJapanese Restaurant Near MeCaliforniaLos Angeles CountyLos AngelesCulver - WestJapanese Restaurant in Washington BoulevardSOBAR
SOBAR ico

SOBAR

12404 Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90066, USA

4.0
Had a great time here last night. Highlights were the sake flight, zarusoba w/shiso sauce, appetizer plate - basically everything we tried. Joseph was on point w/his Japanese and English fluency too. Highly recommend. - maoli yamaguchi
SOBAR Overview Intro Photos Location Reviews

SOBAR Introduce

For Californians seeking a truly authentic and distinct Japanese culinary experience beyond the usual sushi and ramen, SOBAR in Los Angeles offers a refreshing and sophisticated alternative. This unique establishment specializes in soba, the delicate and flavorful buckwheat noodles, prepared with meticulous care and served in both hot and cold variations. SOBAR brings a refined yet approachable Japanese dining concept to the vibrant Washington Boulevard, making it a compelling destination for locals and visitors alike.

SOBAR is more than just a soba restaurant; it's a place where traditional Japanese flavors meet a cool, urban vibe. The menu is thoughtfully curated, featuring not only exquisite soba dishes but also a range of intriguing appetizers, sashimi, and delectable desserts, all complemented by a carefully selected list of sake and other beverages. Whether you're a connoisseur of Japanese cuisine or simply looking for a memorable night out, SOBAR delivers a delightful journey for the palate, promising a fresh perspective on Japanese dining in Los Angeles.

Location and Accessibility

SOBAR is conveniently located at 12404 Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90066, USA. This address places it in a dynamic and easily accessible part of Los Angeles, serving the communities of Mar Vista, Culver City, and surrounding Westside neighborhoods. Washington Boulevard is a well-trafficked thoroughfare, making the restaurant visible and straightforward to find.

For those driving, street parking (metered) is generally available in the vicinity, as noted by satisfied customers. This is a significant convenience in a city where parking can often be a challenge. The restaurant's presence on a major boulevard also means it's accessible via various local bus routes, offering public transportation options for diners. The "cool vibes for dinner" mentioned by patrons suggest that the location contributes to the overall appealing atmosphere, making it a suitable choice for a relaxed yet upscale evening out.

Services Offered

SOBAR provides a curated and high-quality dining experience with a focus on fresh ingredients and expert preparation. Here's a look at their services:

  • Dine-in Service: SOBAR offers a stylish and inviting interior space for an enjoyable dine-in experience. Customers often recommend making reservations, especially to secure a spot at the bar, which adds to the cool ambiance.
  • Takeout Options: For those who prefer to enjoy SOBAR's cuisine at home, takeout services are available. Their menu is accessible online for convenient ordering.
  • Online Ordering & Delivery: SOBAR partners with various food delivery platforms, including Uber Eats and DoorDash, allowing customers to easily order their favorite soba and Japanese dishes for delivery to their doorstep.
  • Specialty Soba Noodles: Their main highlight is their "Ju-Wari Soba" – 100% organic buckwheat noodles, served in various preparations including cold (Zaru Soba) with different dipping sauces (Traditional Tsuyu, Shoujin Tsuyu, Shiso, Tororo) and hot (soup) variations (Poached Egg Soba, Kakiage Soba, Spicy Garlic Enoki Soba).
  • Diverse Japanese Appetizers & Small Plates: The menu features an array of exquisitely prepared appetizers such as Hotate Crudo Style Sashimi (scallop sashimi), Gindara Saikyo Yaki (grilled marinated black cod), Pork Kakuni (braised pork belly), Chicken Karaage, and a "Special Appetizer Plate" offering a combination of popular items.
  • Sake and Drink Program: SOBAR boasts a well-curated selection of sake, including sake flights (e.g., Junmai flight), allowing guests to explore different varietals. They also offer unique cocktails like SOBAR Lemon Sour and Premium Matcha-Hi, along with non-alcoholic options.
  • Japanese Desserts: Despite not being a dessert-focused establishment, their desserts, like the Yuzu Ice Cream and MATCHA SOBA TIRAMISU, have received high praise for their unexpected deliciousness.
  • Cashless Restaurant: For convenience and efficiency, SOBAR operates as a cashless restaurant.
Features / Highlights

SOBAR consistently receives high praise for several distinctive features that make it a standout Japanese restaurant in Los Angeles:

  • Authentic Soba Experience: Their dedication to "Ju-Wari Soba" (100% buckwheat noodles) is a major draw. Customers commend the perfectly chewy texture of the noodles and the delicious broths, whether original or seasoned, and unique dipping sauces like the shiso sauce.
  • Exceptional Appetizers: Dishes like the "Hotate Crudo Style Sashimi" and "Gindara Saikyo Yaki" are frequently highlighted as decadent and delicious, showcasing a high level of culinary skill and fresh ingredients. The "Appetizer Plate" is also a popular choice for sampling a variety of their best small bites.
  • Well-Curated Sake Selection & Flights: For sake enthusiasts, the sake flight is a definite highlight, offering a fair price for a quality sampling of different sakes. This demonstrates their commitment to a complete Japanese dining experience.
  • Beyond Expectations Desserts: While not the primary focus, the desserts, particularly the "Yuzu Ice Cream" and "MATCHA SOBA TIRAMISU," have surprised and delighted customers with their unexpected excellence.
  • Cool and Welcoming Ambiance: The restaurant has a "cool vibe for dinner," combining a stylish setting with a warm and friendly atmosphere that is never stuffy.
  • Attentive and Knowledgeable Staff: Service is consistently described as excellent and "beyond attentive." Staff members, including those with Japanese and English fluency, are praised for their knowledge of the menu and their ability to enhance the dining experience.
  • Transparency in Pricing: The restaurant is clear about its pricing structure, including an 18% service charge with no additional tip required, which is appreciated by customers.
  • Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Options: With various soba dishes, appetizers, and specific dipping sauces marked as vegan or gluten-free, SOBAR makes an effort to cater to diverse dietary needs.
Promotions or Special Offers

SOBAR does offer specific promotions, making it even more appealing for California locals. They provide a Happy Hour every Monday evening. While the exact details of happy hour specials may evolve, it typically includes attractive pricing on small bites and cocktails. For the most current information, it's always best to check their official website or social media channels, or inquire directly when making a reservation. Additionally, the transparency of their 18% service charge (no additional tip required) can be seen as a form of value for customers, providing clarity on the final cost of their meal.

Contact Information

To embark on a unique Japanese culinary journey at SOBAR, or for any inquiries, please use the following contact details:

  • Address: 12404 Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90066, USA
  • Phone: (310) 439-1029
Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Californians, especially those residing in the West Los Angeles area, SOBAR is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended Japanese restaurant. It stands apart by offering a specialized focus on soba noodles, providing a refreshing alternative to traditional ramen or sushi-centric Japanese eateries. The dedication to authentic flavors, combined with a modern approach to ambiance and service, creates a genuinely memorable dining experience.

Locals will appreciate the convenient location on Washington Boulevard, with accessible street parking. The transparent pricing structure, including the service charge, adds to a straightforward and pleasant dining experience. Moreover, the diverse menu, featuring not only outstanding soba but also delectable appetizers like Hotate Crudo and Gindara Saikyo Yaki, along with a thoughtful sake program, ensures there’s something for every palate. The consistently praised attentive staff and the "cool vibes" make SOBAR an ideal spot for anything from a casual weeknight dinner to a special celebration, firmly cementing its status as a must-visit local gem in Los Angeles.

SOBAR Photos

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SOBAR Location

SOBAR

12404 Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90066, USA

SOBAR Reviews

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