30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Luxury Dining Japanese in Santa Monica
Best Date Night Sushi in Santa Monica
Master Critic Review
Takuma
8.1
Traditional izakaya offering authentic Japanese small plates and extensive sake selection in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Chef Takuma brings genuine Tokyo-style dining with shareable dishes perfect for groups and an impressive variety of premium sake.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Karaage, Sukiyaki Hot Pot, Sake-Marinated Black Cod
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Authentic izakaya experience rare on the Westside
Who should go: Groups seeking shareable Japanese comfort food
When to visit: After work for lively atmosphere and sake
What to order: Sukiyaki, karaage, seasonal sake flight
Insider tip: Sit at the counter for chef interactions
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small lot fills by 6:30pm, valet $8, metered street parking until 8pm
Dress code: Casual to smart casual - anything from nice jeans to business casual fits
Noise level: Lively buzz - conversation-friendly at tables, louder at the bar
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation, bar seats often available sooner
Weekday lunch: No wait, though popular with local office crowd 12-1pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 8-10 options including agedashi tofu, veggie gyoza, seasonal tempura
Vegan options: Limited - edamame, veggie sushi rolls, ask server for modifications
Gluten-free options: Some options - sashimi, yakitori without sauce, staff knowledgeable
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for third date onwards - the sharing format and lively atmosphere work better when you're already comfortable. Counter seats create intimacy if available.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknights before 7pm usually fine. Friday/Saturday reserve or expect 30+ min wait. Bar seats turn over faster - great backup option.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes until 9pm - they have high chairs and kid-friendly options like chicken teriyaki and tempura. After 9pm becomes more of an adult sake bar scene.
Best For
Better for: More authentic izakaya experience than Katsuya, better sake selection than most Westside Japanese, superior late-night menu vs competitors
Skip if: Want quiet romantic ambiance (try Shunji instead) or quick takeout sushi (Sugarfish better for that)
Hours
Monday11am - 10:30pm
Tuesday11am - 10:30pm
Wednesday11am - 10:30pm
Thursday11am - 10:30pm
Friday11am - 10:30pm
Saturday4pm - 10:30pm
SundayClosed