Cheap Eats – Otomisan Japanese Comfort Food

I first heard about this restaurant on “Take Out with Lisa Ling.“ I made a note to myself to visit the next time I am in Los Angeles. This is a homestyle Japanese cooking restaurant in the Boyle Heights area, established in 1956, and now listed as a historic cultural monument.

There is always a long line, so be prepared to wait. Because the space is small, lunch and dinner are always full. Fortunately, I sat at the bar by myself without having to wait.

Otomisan is known for its tempura, but they also serve pork katsu curry, oyakodon, and udon noodles. Occasionally, they serve dishes that are not listed on the menu. Unagi donburi was the highlight of the day, and I ordered it right away. When the individual following me attempted to place a similar order, I informed them that I had the final one.

I have to tell you that the Unagi Donburi was out of this world! It just melts in your mouth. The experience brought me back to the time I was in Japan!

Otomisan

2506 ½ East First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90003