TOT / Teishokuya of Tokyo
Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles at 345 E 2nd St, TOT / Teishokuya of Tokyo offers a unique culinary experience that transports you straight to Tokyo without leaving California. If you're craving traditional Japanese dishes that are both comforting and delicious, this is the place to be. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this charming restaurant is a must-try for anyone wanting to experience authentic Japanese "teishoku" (set meals) with a modern twist. Let’s dive into what makes TOT / Teishokuya of Tokyo stand out and why it should be at the top of your food bucket list.
What is Teishoku?
If you're unfamiliar with the term, teishoku refers to a traditional Japanese set meal typically consisting of rice, soup, and a variety of side dishes. At TOT / Teishokuya of Tokyo, they serve these meals with an authentic Japanese flair, offering a wide variety of options that showcase the flavors of Japan in every bite. The restaurant’s name, “Teishokuya,” translates to “set meal shop,” which is precisely what they specialize in.
Authenticity and Quality at its Core
What makes TOT / Teishokuya of Tokyo truly exceptional is its commitment to authenticity. From the ingredients to the preparation techniques, everything at this restaurant is designed to transport your taste buds to Japan. The dishes are crafted with attention to detail and a deep respect for Japanese culinary traditions, making it a standout in Los Angeles’ diverse food scene.
The ambiance is warm and welcoming, with a cozy yet modern atmosphere that makes it the perfect spot for both casual dining and special occasions. The sleek wooden furniture, the minimalist Japanese decor, and the open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work all add to the authentic experience.
A Menu That Celebrates Japan’s Culinary Heritage
At TOT / Teishokuya of Tokyo, the menu is a celebration of Japanese comfort food. Here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss:
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Teishoku Set Meals: The heart of the menu, the teishoku meals at TOT / Teishokuya of Tokyo are designed to offer a balanced and satisfying dining experience. Some popular options include Chicken Katsu Teishoku, Salmon Teriyaki Teishoku, and Unagi (Eel) Teishoku, each served with perfectly cooked rice, miso soup, and a variety of side dishes such as pickles, steamed vegetables, and potato salad.
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Sushi and Sashimi: While the teishoku sets are the main draw, the sushi and sashimi offerings are just as impressive. The fish is always fresh, and the sushi is expertly crafted. Try the Chef’s Special Sushi Platter for a sampler of the best cuts.
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Ramen and Udon: Whether you're in the mood for a hot bowl of shoyu ramen or a comforting plate of udon, TOT / Teishokuya of Tokyo serves up these Japanese noodle dishes just the way they should be — hearty, flavorful, and full of umami.
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Seasonal Specials: The restaurant prides itself on offering seasonal specials that highlight the best ingredients available at the time. Be sure to check out the seasonal tempura or chirashi bowls if you're lucky enough to visit during one of these limited-time offerings.
Why TOT / Teishokuya of Tokyo is a Must-Visit
When you step into TOT / Teishokuya of Tokyo, you’re not just visiting a restaurant — you’re immersing yourself in Japanese culture. The restaurant doesn’t just focus on food but also creates a full dining experience that connects you to Japan’s rich culinary heritage. The service is friendly, knowledgeable, and always ready to help you navigate the menu, whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular customer.
If you’re looking for a place where you can enjoy a truly authentic Japanese meal, TOT / Teishokuya of Tokyo ticks all the boxes. From the carefully curated menu to the cozy ambiance and attentive service, it’s a place that invites you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the flavors of Japan in the heart of Los Angeles.
The Perfect Spot for Every Occasion
Whether you're stopping by for a quick lunch, enjoying a dinner date, or celebrating a special event, TOT / Teishokuya of Tokyo is perfect for any occasion. The restaurant offers both individual set meals as well as large sharing platters, so it’s great for both solo dining and group outings.
It’s not just about the food — it’s about the experience. So, if you're craving a meal that’s both comforting and flavorful, head over to TOT / Teishokuya of Tokyo. You’ll be treated to an unforgettable dining experience that showcases the best of Japanese cuisine right here in Los Angeles.
Reviews
Best takoyaki I've tried in the states. I think I could be happy ordering 5 plates of that and Sapporo + hot sake. They also have great shumai and other appetizers. I always stuck with the small dishes there because they're so tasty. Great service, very polite!
Upon arriving, we were greeted and the staff directed us yo our table. We can during dinner services around 7pm. Luckily it wasn't as busy and without a long wait. The service was great! Friendly staffs. The food was well cooked and crunchy. Would definitely come back to try the rest of the other dishes they have. I hot the combi and it was well put together and it was simple yet delicious. The ambiance was simple and clean. Nothing special.
I came here for lunch on a Thursday and it was relatively empty. The server was attentive and came by our table quickly to grab drink orders. I ordered the pork cutlet curry and it comes in a rather deep bowl and also comes with a side salad and miso soup. It comes with a lot of curry. I really enjoyed the pork cutlet because it was juicy and the breading was really flakey. It had a really nice satisfying crunch when biting into it. The curry itself was nicely flavored but it did get rather salty after a while. I did not like the deep bowl since it made it hard to choose how much curry per rice bite. A plate would've been easier to maneuver. I would come back again to try the bento boxes !
I have visited this restaurant in Little Tokyo a couple times now and am now finally leaving my review. One good thing is this restaurant will validate your parking if you park in the structure connected to the main plaza! They have a good amount of tables inside that are best for parties of 4 of smaller. This most recent time I visited I got the tenzaru soba but other times I got the tonkatsu (pork loin katsu). I would definitely recommend getting their tonkatsu instead of the other dishes like their bentos. The bentos were all mediocre from what my friends said. The soba I got was good but the tempura was below average for me, it was pretty soggy and had no crunch. The batter was also really thick so I wasn't the biggest fan. Their tonkatsu is really good though so that's why I am giving it 4 stars. Overall I would come here again but just get the tonkatsu. It's nice this restaurant isn't too crazy because its on the street side and not in the heart of the plaza.
My friend said they have good cold soba with tempura. When I saw the menu, I ordered their thin sliced layered pork tonkatsu type steak. Sorry, I forgot what it was called. The place has a good number of tables but I went when they opened so got one right away. The tonkatsu was great.