Los Angeles · Yakitori · counter
Torimatsu
YakitoriYakitoriBinchotanGardena1990Japan TrainedKursmenü
Chef-owner Shoji Ishikawa's Gardena yakitori counter, where a 1979 Tokyo Shinbashi training background produces 7- or 10-course yakitori menus with rare cuts and Kishu Binchotan grilling.
- Price
- ¥¥¥
- Area
- Gardena
- Since
- 1990
- Chef
- Shoji Ishikawa
Plate № 01
About
Torimatsu opened in Gardena in 1990 under chef Shoji Ishikawa, who trained at the original Torimatsu in Tokyo's Shinbashi district beginning in 1979. The restaurant is among the most authentic traditional yakitori experiences outside Japan: course menus of 7 or 10 items include rare cuts like toriwasa (lightly cooked chicken breast) and bonbochi, all grilled over Kishu Binchotan. TripAdvisor reviewers write that 'outside of Japan, one would be hard pressed to find better yakitori.'
Neighborhood & visiting
Torimatsu sits in Gardena, one of Los Angeles's neighborhoods where authentic Japanese kitchens have taken root. The house does not publish an online booking link; call ahead to secure a seat, especially on weekends. Check the posted hours before you go — traditional yakitori restaurants often close between service periods.
Why it's on Washoku Guide
- Chef Shoji Ishikawa trained at Tokyo's Shinbashi Torimatsu (1979)
- Kishu Binchotan charcoal; 7- or 10-course yakitori menus
- Rare cuts: toriwasa, bonbochi, nankotsu
- TripAdvisor: 'outside of Japan, one would be hard-pressed to find better yakitori'
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Frequently asked
About Torimatsu
- Is Torimatsu an authentic yakitori restaurant in Los Angeles?
- Yes — Torimatsu is featured in Washoku Guide because it meets our authenticity standard for yakitori in Los Angeles: a kitchen grounded in Japanese technique, ingredients and preparation consistent with Japanese practice, and a focused yakitori format.
- Where is Torimatsu located?
- Torimatsu is located at 1425 W Artesia Blvd, Gardena, CA 90248 (,), Los Angeles, USA in the Gardena neighborhood.
- Do I need a reservation at Torimatsu?
- Torimatsu does not publish an online reservation link. Walk-ins may be possible, but for popular yakitori restaurants in Los Angeles we recommend calling ahead.
- What is the price range at Torimatsu?
- Torimatsu sits in the ¥¥¥ price range — typical for yakitori of this format in Los Angeles.
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