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Santa Monica › Santa Monica › Takuma IZAKAYA JAPANESE
Takuma IZAKAYA JAPANESEB+Worth Trying
2627 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90403
· Japanese restaurant, Asian restaurant, Bar
· 4.5/5 Google (279 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
A cozy neighborhood izakaya with a broad Japanese menu, standout small plates, and friendly service at moderate prices, with occasional inconsistency on portions and a few service lapses.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Takuma Izakaya delivers solid neighborhood dining through exceptional service attentiveness and strong food quality highlighted by standout dishes like blow-torched mackerel and crisp karaage. However, inconsistent execution on seasoning and doneness, combined with a modest, intimate setting rather than destination appeal, keeps it competitive with respected local favorites rather than among the area's premier establishments.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels cozy and calm, the kind of neighborhood spot where servers chat kindly and plates arrive with simple elegance. One diner summed it up: "A quiet little gem with fresh fish and warm service." It is small, so expect a relaxed, intimate vibe rather than a scene. The cooking leans classic izakaya comfort with a few modern touches. Blow‑torched mackerel, crisp karaage, noodles, and small plates lead the way, with sushi as a supporting act. Most praise the freshness and balance, though a few note occasional bland or small portions, especially on bentos and certain curries. Families do well here. Kids gravitate to simple rolls and noodles, and there are plenty of cooked choices like fried rice and karaage. There is no explicit kids menu, but the mainstream Japanese staples make ordering easy for younger eaters.
At a Glance
- Cozy neighborhood izakaya with friendly, attentive service
- Standout dishes include blow-torched mackerel and crisp karaage
- Good value for Santa Monica given freshness and variety
- Portions can run small on bentos and some specials
- Occasional inconsistency in seasoning or doneness
What Sets It Apart
- chef_owner_presence
- quiet_conversation_friendly
- broad_izakaya_menu
What People Love
- Warm, thoughtful service
- Fresh sashimi and well-executed small plates
- Quiet room that suits conversation
- Varied menu beyond sushi
Points of Concern
- Portion sizes on some items feel small for price, especially bentos
- Intermittent seasoning or texture misses (overcooked cutlet, bland soup)
- Very small space; limited parking in front
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$35-$48 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Combine one hot small plate (karaage) with a cold dish (zarusoba) and a sushi roll for balance; add blow‑torched mackerel to share.
Perfect For
- Low-key date night with sake flights
- Weeknight neighborhood dinner with shared plates
- Families wanting cooked Japanese staples
- Solo bite at a calm, cozy spot
Location Insights
Area: Busy Wilshire Blvd corridor with neighborhood foot traffic and commuters; casual dining and daily-errand vibe.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit artery with steady traffic; typical urban caution at night.
Nearby: Near apartments, small shops, and other eateries; metered street parking common on Wilshire and side streets.
Santa MonicaSanta Monica offers a lively dining scene with a mix of casual eateries, trendy restaurants, and upscale venues. The area is characterized by its beach-town atmosphere, walkability, and a blend of locals and visitors enjoying a relaxed yet cosmopolitan vibe.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–15:00, 17:00–22:30
Tuesday11:30–15:00, 17:00–22:30
Wednesday11:30–15:00, 17:00–22:30
Thursday11:30–15:00, 17:00–22:30
Friday11:30–15:00, 17:00–22:30
Saturday16:00–22:30
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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