Los Angeles · Izakaya · a la carte
Norikaya
IzakayaIzakayaHandrollsMichelin BibAkira BackKorean-Japanese
Michelin Bib Gourmand izakaya in Koreatown by chef Akira Back and owner Robert Kim — Japanese izakaya structure with Korean-Japanese handrolls, sake, and soju.
- Price
- ¥¥¥
- Area
- Koreatown
- Since
- 2024
- Chef
- Akira Back
- Owner
- Robert Kim

Plate № 20
About
Norikaya opened in August 2024 as a collaboration between Michelin-starred chef Akira Back (Korean-American, known for his eponymous Seoul restaurant) and Koreatown restaurateur Robert Kim. The concept draws on Japanese izakaya tradition while incorporating Korean-inflected handrolls and small plates. The restaurant received a Michelin Bib Gourmand in its first year.
Neighborhood & visiting
Norikaya sits in Koreatown, one of Los Angeles's neighborhoods where authentic Japanese kitchens have taken root. Reservations are available online — for a focused izakaya counter this is strongly recommended. Check the posted hours before you go — traditional izakaya restaurants often close between service periods.
Why it's on Washoku Guide
- Michelin Bib Gourmand (2024 California Guide)
- Chef Akira Back: Michelin-starred globally, Korean-Japanese cuisine
- Handrolls, small plates, sake and soju — izakaya energy in Koreatown
More authentic izakaya in Los Angeles
See all →Other authentic cuisines in Los Angeles
See all →Authentic izakaya in other cities
See all →Frequently asked
About Norikaya
- Is Norikaya an authentic izakaya restaurant in Los Angeles?
- Yes — Norikaya is featured in Washoku Guide because it meets our authenticity standard for izakaya in Los Angeles: a kitchen grounded in Japanese technique, ingredients and preparation consistent with Japanese practice, and a focused izakaya format.
- Where is Norikaya located?
- Norikaya is located at 554 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90020, Los Angeles, USA in the Koreatown neighborhood.
- Do I need a reservation at Norikaya?
- Norikaya accepts reservations online. For an authentic izakaya experience, especially at a focused counter, booking ahead is strongly recommended.
- What is the price range at Norikaya?
- Norikaya sits in the ¥¥¥ price range — typical for izakaya of this format in Los Angeles.
Keep exploring












