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    Izakaya Takasei

    4.7 (16 reviews)
    Special Hours Closed
    Updated 1 week ago

    Izakaya Takasei Photos

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    IZAKAYA TAKASEI ATMOSPHERE

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    Interior
    Kris T.

    We just had one of the best meals ever. So many choices that I don't normally see on a japanese restaurant menu. It was hard to choose but we did! The chirashi, tako, katsu, blue fin tuna, chicken liver, sashimi, sake flight. All excellent! The service was warm and attentive. The vibe is casual. It can get a bit loud in there but we had no problem talking. The star is definitely the food. So lucky to have them so close to our home. I'd travel for this meal but I don't have to. Ample parking. Can't wait to return!

    Vivian L.

    Quiet and calm spot with only a few tables tucked into a corner in HB. The service was fast and they were really kind, and the food was tasty, but nothing special. Would come here more for the ambiance and vibe than for the izakaya here IMO

    Sausage egg san-rice

    I recently tried the To-Go Rice Sandwich, and I really enjoyed it! I also dine at the restaurant regularly, and the food is always delicious. The rice sandwich reminded me of a Japanese rice ball, making it easy and enjoyable to eat. The French fries were generous in portion, crispy, and perfectly cooked. I also loved that I could eat it without getting my hands messy. I'll definitely be ordering it again on my next visit!

    fried oysters
    Raven V.

    Wow! Takasei is off to a seriously strong start in their new location! For those familiar with their roots, Takasei originally took over a former Honda Ya space in Fullerton, and that is not a legacy you casually live up to. Honda Ya set a high bar for izakaya dining, and as someone who holds it as a personal favorite, I do not say this lightly. Takasei continues to deliver that same level of quality, consistency, and attention to detail that made that space special in the first place. This new location is conveniently situated near Bella Terra and directly across from Marina High School, with plenty of easy parking in the surrounding area. Accessibility is another strong point. The layout is open, easy to navigate, and clearly accommodates wheelchair access without issue. Guests using walkers or canes should feel comfortable moving through the space. The interior, at least for now, is minimal. Clean and open, but noticeably sparse. Compared to the warmth and character of their previous location, this space feels like it is still finding its identity. A few thoughtful additions like wall art or decor would go a long way in making it feel more inviting and lived in. That said, it is clear the focus right now is on getting the food and service dialed in first. And that focus is paying off. The food is exactly what you want from a strong izakaya. Everything we ordered came out hot, well-timed, and properly executed. It is also worth noting that they are already seeing strong demand. A handful of items we were interested in were sold out, which, this early on, speaks volumes. People are showing up, ordering the hits, and clearing them out. The skewers are a highlight. Every single one arrived hot off the grill with that ideal balance of light char and juicy interior. Simple in concept, but not easy to execute consistently, and they absolutely nailed it. This is the kind of place where you can confidently order across the skewer menu and expect it to land. Right now, the menu is on the smaller side, which feels intentional. It reads like a soft opening selection, focused on doing a core set of dishes really well rather than stretching too far too fast. If you have been to their previous location, you will likely notice some favorites missing. Hopefully that is temporary, because if this is the baseline, a full menu rollout will make this place even stronger. The beer selection is another win. A solid lineup on tap, including Orion, which pairs perfectly with the food and completes the izakaya experience. Bottom line, Takasei is already drawing a crowd and for good reason. Even with a pared-down menu and a space that is still coming together, the fundamentals are all there. Great food, strong execution, and the kind of consistency that keeps people coming back. This is one to watch as it settles in. If this is the starting point, it is only going to get better. I live very VERY close to this location. So I expect to be in here weekly ;)

    Beef Tongue + Pork Belly
    Christopher P.

    This is a brand new location in Huntington Beach. They used to have a location in Fullerton, but I had never been. This location is modern and fairly spacious. Their presentation is very classic Japanese style and service is great. The chicken karaage, Suntory draft, and hojicha were great. Yakitori selection is also good. Definitely pay them a visit if you like authentic Japanese

    Nicole C.

    This place is absolutely amazing and delicious, so glad we have a great yakitori place in HB now! The quality of the meats are so good and the service is on point, all the staff is so Friendly. There wasn't an item we tried that we did not like, you can really tell they are carefully crafting each dish. Japanese house cheesecake was the best I've had and was the perfect wait to end the night. Welcome to HB and I can't wait to come back :)

    Premium sashimi planter

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    2 months ago

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    2 months ago

    The food was really good very high quality good service and good drinks I had a great time

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    1 month ago

    The food was fresh and flavorful, the staff was attentive, and the overall atmosphere made for a very enjoyable dining experience.

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    Akuma Ramen & Sushi Bar

    Akuma Ramen & Sushi Bar

    4.6
    (318 reviews)
    1.0 mi
    $$

    I've been going here once a week for about three months, and this is honestly my favorite ramen and…read moresushi place I've ever been to. Everyone on staff is so friendly and welcoming, and the food is absolutely to die for. The vibes are HIGH in here as well, gives a "hole in the wall" feel with Michelin level quality. Highly recommend the Tonkotsu Ramen, perfect on a cold day, and really cannot go wrong with any of the sushi or sashimi options. Shawn puts an incredible amount of work into every roll and each cut of fish, and you really taste it. The bowls are very slept on too in my opinion, I've had a couple different ones and have never left disappointed. Also can never go wrong with the house sake, super generous pour and amazing flavor!

    Being a fan of Street Fighter game, I couldn't pass up a place with Akuma in the name. Even better…read morethat it serves both ramen and sushi, two items my entire family loves. Location looks sketchy, but the food is good and price is very reasonable. Black Ramen (pork broth, black garlic oil, chashu, egg, green onion, beansprout, wood-ear mushroom) was really good. Great tasting broth without being too salty. Yellowtail Jalapeño Roll was excellent. Had this type of roll at other places, but the one here just tasted more vibrant. Very refreshing with a good amount of spiciness. Akuma Roll was good but was different than I expected. Based on the name I thought it would have a more menacing presentation with a super spicy kick to it, but it was rather tame and too bright in presentation. It has 4 types of fish, avocado, spicy mayo, soy mustard, truffle ponzu sauce, and soy paper. Service seemed efficient as we got our food pretty quickly, despite being busy. However, it took a while for us to get our check at the end.

    Photos
    Best quality sushi in Huntington Beach.  3 rolls, potstickers & a coke less than $40. 911 roll and Fried Gyoza (Pork & Chicken)
    Best quality sushi in Huntington Beach. 3 rolls, potstickers & a coke less than $40. 911 roll and Fried Gyoza (Pork & Chicken)
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    Sea Salt Japanese Eatery

    Sea Salt Japanese Eatery

    4.4
    (423 reviews)
    1.0 mi
    $$

    SeaSalt is one of my favorite places for sushi in Huntington Beach. The sushi is incredibly fresh…read moreand you can really taste the quality of the fish. Every roll we tried was amazing and beautifully prepared. The atmosphere is great and the staff is friendly and attentive. The restaurant is clean, comfortable, and a perfect spot for a nice dinner. You can tell they care about the food and the experience. If you're in Huntington Beach and want amazing sushi, I definitely recommend SeaSalt. I'll definitely be coming back.

    Really cute neighbourhood spot, and it was clear there are a lot of regulars which is always a good…read moresign. Came in during a slow afternoon, but the service was fantastic: quick, attentive, and genuinely friendly. I don't think I've ever seen a server that happy if i'm being honest. Great fish selection for nigiri/sashimi, and they definitely don't skimp on portions. The slices were slightly thicker than what you typically get at most Japanese restaurants, but not overwhelming at all. Because of that, the nigiri and rolls do come with a bit more rice as well, but everything was well-balanced. Also ordered the Brussels sprout appetiser, which was a standout and easily one of the best Brussels sprout dishes I've had. Each sprout was perfectly coated with Parmesan cheese and nori. I'm addicted. Overall, a great spot with quality fish, exceptional service, and a cozy vibe. Will definitely be back.

    Photos
    Sea scallop, shrimp lover roll, pink lady, salmon showdown, sweet shrimp, rainbow roll, and more
    Sea scallop, shrimp lover roll, pink lady, salmon showdown, sweet shrimp, rainbow roll, and more
    Yellowtail with topped with toro (?)
    Yellowtail with topped with toro (?)
    Delicious Saki! Mizubasho Ginjo Sake, cold filtered.

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    Momonoki

    Momonoki

    4.1
    (307 reviews)
    5.0 mi
    $$

    Even better than the first time. I don't know if it's because we were starving or because we were…read moreable to try more things but food was great. They changed up a lot of their menu too. Service was excellent too. Shout out Tai? I'm not sure how to spell it. Cute inside with pretty decor but a little small so make sure to put your name down. We went Sunday around 7:30/8pm and there wasn't a wait for party of 4. Pork jowl is a fav of mine and their ssamjjang tastes pretty authentic but definitely had a little twist to it. It was super tender and well marbled. The crispy chicken was also juicy as it was all thigh meat. It reminded me of takoyaki in terms of taste. I wonder if it's because there's bonito flakes in it or something like takoyaki? Scallop pesto pasta was AMAZING. Scallop is my fav seafood and I never had a creamy pesto before. Udon noodles were cooked perfectly. The skirt steak really surprised me. We asked for medium rare and nice never had a skirt steak that tender. The broccolini tasted very charred and smoky (in a good way). It complimented the meat so well. Miso bacon carbonara was a solid choice and we also got that last time. Can't go wrong with it. The wings though were standard fish sauce wings. The slaw was a bit too vinegary or sour for me. Can't wait to come back the next time!

    Went here for a night out and I was impressed by the flavor of the food and the portion size of the…read morefood. We went right at opening so there was no wait, the waiters were very nice and on top of everything. Their cocktails are on the sweeter side which I liked. Yuzuni: 7/10 it was good, sweet with yuzu flavor. The part I didn't like that it was the after taste. It was very bitter for some reason. Fries: 10/10 it was delicious. The garlic flavor was strong in a good way and the crispy is on point! Calamari: 10/10 can't really go wrong with that tbh Carbonara: 8/10 the flavor is there but it wasn't that special. The noodle was super al dente that felt a bit undercook (?). There was barely any bacon and the portion size is so small Vongole: 8/10 the flavor was very good. Lots of seafood in the bowl, but there was barely any noodle. The portion is also very small for it to cost $40 Pork Jowl: 7/10 nothing special. Not much flavor to the meat. The sauce that comes with it tastes like the cocktail sauce that I feel like did not go well with the pork. Overall I would give this place a 7/10. The portion size were very small, none of the dishes we ordered were special or stand out enough to wow us. The service was great. The atmosphere was alright.

    Photos
    Inside
    Inside
    Pappardelle Bolognese
    Pappardelle Bolognese
    Bolognese papardelle

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    Tama Sushi

    Tama Sushi

    4.7
    (461 reviews)
    1.0 mi
    $$

    lovely dining experience on a thursday night. my bf and i went for my dinner and i loved how many…read morevegan options were available (and how the menu distinguished between vegan and non-vegan options. service was quick even though it was an hour before close, and the owner was super sweet w helping us take our picture and walking us through ordering. we were warned about the spiciness of our food and she was right LOL the food was SO YUMMY. whatever tofu wizardry they're using to make the "spicy tuna" is truly magic because the texture was unlike anything i'd had before. the tempura shiitake was fun and light and crunchy, and everything tasted fresh. the ramen was yummy but the sushi was the star. would love to come back and try more

    Amazing selection of sushi and dishes for vegans and non vegans alike…read more Some highlights are: Shrimp Tempura - 10/10 Texture was crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. My bf who is not vegetarian was shocked that it wasn't real shrimp! Chicken Teriyaki - 10/10 I haven't seen this on a menu anywhere before. Was super stoked to try and it didn't disappoint. The texture was made to feel like real chicken and the sauce on it was great. I asked for sriracha on the side and it rounded out the dish perfectly. The sushi rolls were delicious as well. Overall, great staff, great vibe, and would come again. :)

    Photos
    Indoor seating
    Indoor seating
    SEA TREASURE (Cooked] Shrimp tempura, Shrimp salad wrap with avo topped with baked baby lobster and special spicy mayo
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    Miso soup n green tea

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    Niya Sushi

    Niya Sushi

    4.5
    (562 reviews)
    1.0 mi
    $$

    We were greeted w a smile from Christine and a clean spot at the sushi bar along with a comforting…read moremug of hot green tea. Chirashi bowl was delicious- in all my years I haven't had rice this delicious. Presented w care to keep the sashimi cold and the rice hot- quail egg, caviar and two types of roe were unexpected treats. The Toro was fresh and perfectly sea-butter. Gold medal chefs! The coffee ice cream stuffed macron was a perfect end to our night out. I'm going back soon for the blue crab hand roll.

    My husband and I have been coming to Niya for about five years, and unfortunately our last three…read morevisits have been extremely disappointing. I want to be clear that we've always enjoyed the food here, although even our most recent meal fell short. The real issue, however, has been the wait times, which have become unreasonable. Today my order was estimated to be ready at 7:15 PM. It is now 8PM and I am still waiting. For context, I placed the order at 6:00 PM. Meanwhile, guests continue to arrive and are being seated. Spending nearly two hours waiting in the lobby for a to-go order--both today and on our last visit--is simply unacceptable. The waitress did offer a free dessert and a gift card, which I declined because, unfortunately, we do not plan on returning. She then offered $20 off the bill. While the gesture was noted, it does little to address the broader issue when the bill is $130 and the wait has been this excessive. If the owners are reading this, please take a serious look at how orders are being managed. If the kitchen cannot handle the volume, online orders should be paused until the system is fixed. This used to be a place we genuinely loved, which makes this experience all the more disappointing. At this point, however, the wait and frustration simply aren't worth it anymore.

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    Niya Sushi
    Nebeyaki Udon
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    Fisherman's Table Yamasaki

    Fisherman's Table Yamasaki

    4.4
    (418 reviews)
    1.8 mi
    $$$

    I went to the famous Toro Carving Event from their Instagram. I recommend calling a month early to…read morereserve a seat because it was booked solid! They do this near the end of the month on Mondays. Unfortunately, this is their 3rd to last event as they're going to be doing some restructuring. The staff was very nice and accommodating. Drinks were flowing and the sashimi was non-stop. Nigiri and handrolls were also delicious and I ate until I was close to puking. It was super cool to be able to cut into the fresh fish from Mexico. It's definitely tougher than it looks. I always thought it would be easy to cut like butter, but definitely takes a lot of strength and skill. There were other tasty tuna dishes like the miso soup, salad and crispy tuna steak. I recommend sitting at the bar so you can see Chef Yamasaki cut the fish in the front row seats. It was cool to taste the varying levels of fatness of the fish. The super chutoro was practically butter. They also offered tuna to go at $50/lb. Definitely worth it. The venue is their regular restaurant but with more tables in the middle. A little loud but definitely a fun time. There were 3 birthdays too! We had ice cream mochi for dessert and there were strawberry cakes for the birthday girls. We averaged about $170 after tip and it was worth every penny.

    This is a four-star review because while the food was excellent, the service was unfortunately the…read moreslowest I've ever experienced. The entire meal lasted 2.5 hours, and that was only because we ended it early and asked for the check. We ordered the Omakase Yamasaki for $69, and everything we received was amazing. The salad to start was great, and the fish was prepared perfectly. However, the pacing really took away from the experience. I'm not sure if they were understaffed, but the service was so slow that by the end we were exhausted and didn't even want to finish the meal. We also mentioned that my friend has a shellfish allergy, but a crab hand roll was still brought out. While it was very delicious, my friend couldn't eat it, and we chose to leave without a replacement because it would have taken another 20 minutes. The food was memorable, but the service and timing need improvement for the experience to match the quality of the food.

    Photos
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    Tuna Nigiri , Mackerel Nigiri , Yellowtail Nigiri
    Tuna Nigiri , Mackerel Nigiri , Yellowtail Nigiri
    Sashimi lunch ($28)
 (only sashimi pictured, sides not in picture)

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    Sashimi lunch ($28) (only sashimi pictured, sides not in picture)

    Izakaya Takasei - japanese - Updated July 2026

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