Redondo Beach Izakaya — Good but Not Memorable 🏮

📍 Zoku Vibes: 100/100 A tastefully designed, artsy izakaya with full-on Japanese hospitality—waitstaff even crouch down to serve you, making you feel like royalty 👑 Prices are on the higher side, but the food doesn’t quite match up in wow factor. 🍙 Rice balls and 🍗 karaage were tasty but nothing you can’t find elsewhere. 🍢 Yakitori platter was decent but predictable. Highlights: 🌶️ Spicy Black Karaage — Flavorful, saucy, and visually striking. 🥔 Colorful Potato Skewer — Looks like sausage but it’s grilled potato—crispy outside, smoky, delicious. 🥒 Cucumber Appetizer with Yuzu Sauce — Refreshing and palate-cleansing. 🍰 Black Tea Cheesecake — Elegantly plated, not too sweet, a lovely finish. Portions are small and refined—clearly aiming for an upscale izakaya experience. As my friend put it: “This feels like a spot for non-Asian folks to experience an izakaya.” Worth a try, but don’t expect to be blown away. #LAEats #Izakaya #Yakitori #DinnerVibes#RedondoBeachEats #JapaneseFood #UpscaleCasual