Best Japanese Restaurants in Culver City
7 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Mensho Tokyo
Michelin Guide recognition since 2017 for revolutionary chicken-based tori paitan broth
Notable Picks
#1
Mensho Tokyo
8.8
Michelin-recognized Tokyo import specializing in rich tori paitan chicken broth with housemade mochi noodles and premium toppings like A5 Wagyu, duck, and fermented pork chashu. The signature bowl features truffle oil and draws hour-long weekend waits for its gravy-thick, umami-packed broth that has earned acclaim across multiple cities.
Must-Try Dishes:
Signature Toripaitan with Trio Meats, Garlic Knock Out Ramen, Karaage Fried Chicken
What Makes it Special: Michelin Guide recognition since 2017 for revolutionary chicken-based tori paitan broth
8.4
Chef David Movsisian's Michelin-rated handroll specialist operates in The Culver Steps with a sleek industrial bar setting and just 24 counter seats. The focused menu delivers fresh handrolls made to order alongside quality sashimi appetizers, Japanese craft beer, and loose-leaf teas served in traditional tetsubin iron teapots.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked Crab Roll, Negi Toro Handroll, Soft Shell Crab Roll
What Makes it Special: Michelin recognition for focused handroll-centric menu in modern industrial setting
#3
Uzumaki
8.3
Head Chef Moto from the historic Chiba sushi bar brings modern minimalist aesthetics to this neighborhood gem established in 2017. The streamlined menu focuses on traditional nigiri and curated rolls with multiple omakase tiers starting at reasonable prices, featuring standouts like seared salmon belly with truffle and their signature baked crab handroll.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked Crab Handroll, Seared Salmon Belly Nigiri, Uzumaki Plus Omakase Set
What Makes it Special: Former Chiba chef's precise knife work and fish aging program in minimalist space
8.1
International chain from Fukuoka known for silky Hakata-style tonkotsu broth with dramatic, generously portioned toppings including fried enoki mushrooms and niku-miso bolognese. Opened in 2024 at The Culver Steps, offering both classic and elaborate bowls plus strong vegan options with plant-based broths that match the richness of traditional pork versions.
Must-Try Dishes:
Karaka Spicy Ramen with Niku-Miso, Nirvana Classic Vegan, Takoyaki Balls
What Makes it Special: Historic Japanese chain since 1985 with elaborate toppings and excellent vegan menu
#5
AFURI
8
Tokyo-based concept featuring signature yuzu-infused shio ramen with bright, citrusy chicken broth that diverges from heavy tonkotsu styles. Known for lighter, refreshing bowls alongside creative items like hazelnut tantanmen and quality dumplings, with outdoor patio seating at The Culver Steps and all-day happy hour at the bar.
Must-Try Dishes:
Yuzu Shio Ramen, Spicy Yuzu Ramen, Chicken Karaage
What Makes it Special: Signature yuzu citrus-forward ramen with lighter, refreshing chicken-based broths
Worthy Picks
7.9
This approachable Japanese restaurant near Sony Studios offers classical ambiance with extensive outdoor seating on a shaded patio. Known for generous portions and daily happy hour from 4-7pm with half-price specialty rolls, the menu spans traditional sushi alongside teriyaki and tempura options at neighborhood-friendly prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lady in Red Roll, Yellowtail Jalapeño Sashimi, Crunchy Onion Albacore
What Makes it Special: Extensive outdoor patio dining with heating lamps and strong happy hour program
#7
Moto Ramen
7.9
Vibes:
Hidden Gems Heaven
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Comfort Food Classics
Okinawa-inspired neighborhood ramen shop from the team behind Ramen Yukinoya, featuring black garlic tonkotsu, spicy tan tan men, and vegan options. Established in 2020 with a local, laid-back vibe and covered patio seating, offering generous portions with flavorful broths and attentive service from owners Sarah Kim-Jenkins and Yuki Nakamoto.
Must-Try Dishes:
Black Garlic Tonkotsu, Spicy Tan Tan Men, Chicken Karaage
What Makes it Special: Locally-owned Okinawan-style ramen with black garlic tonkotsu specialty since 2020