Japonica Redondo Beach — Restaurant in Redondo Beach

Really disappointed with the level of service we received during our first visit to the Japonica location in Redondo Beach. After an amazing first time in Hermosa at their sister restaurant we had high hopes to have an equally great dining experience this evening. Unfortunately, it left something to be desired. While we were ordering our drinks I made a request for a sweeter Sake recommendation and the waiter responded with a snide, “Well we have lots of sakes” and a roll of the eyes. It was rude and disrespectful. Then, after placing our appetizer we waited 15 minutes for our server to return before finally grabbing the attention of a nearby waitress to place an order. When we received it, the food was sub par to say the least. The shrimp udon had a mushy texture, & the white lightning (seared) was cold. When attempting to send back the dish the servers explained to us that they didn’t have permission to take the plate, only a manager could. The manager never addressed our poor experience and simply sent the server back to retrieve the dish. Awful customer service. Sparknotes are that we will not be returning to this particular location in the future. Save yourself some time and your hard earned money and try literally...

Sushi So Good, It Had Me Rolling!

As a sushi enthusiast and self-proclaimed “fish-ionado,” I recently ventured to Japonica, where the sushi is so fresh it might just swim off your plate. Upon entering, I was greeted by a friendly staff who seated me next to a decorative koi pond, which I can only assume was the waiting area for my dinner's family members.

First up was the tuna sashimi, which was so tender it practically dissolved on my tongue. I found myself making involuntary happy noises that caused the table next to me to glance over in alarm. Next, the spicy salmon roll had the perfect balance of heat and flavor, prompting me to consider proposing marriage to the chef.

The pièce de résistance was the Dragon Roll. With its intricate design and tantalizing taste, it was almost too beautiful to eat. Almost. I devoured it faster than you can say “wasabi.” Speaking of wasabi, Japonica’s wasabi had just the right amount of kick to clear my sinuses and possibly my past sins.

To wash it all down, I enjoyed a sake that warmed me up more than a hug from a long-lost friend. By the end of my meal, I was stuffed but already planning my next visit. Japonica, you’ve rolled your way into my heart...

I've nothing but rave reviews about this place! I came here with a couple friends because we wanted to try something new!

Our server, Val, was extremely helpful and recommended us delicious dishes! We had the White Lightning + Citrus Sakura and the flavors were so yum! In fact, it was so good we ordered another round of each! The White Lightning was deliciously savory with that bed of buttery garlic sauce! That had us licking our lips! The Citrus Sakura was refreshing and we enjoyed a spritz of lemon on top of each!

Also. Loved the fact that they had vegan options as we have a friend who is vegan. It's friendly for vegans! :)

Also loved the fact that they didn't mind that we didn't order alcohol (most of my party aren't really drinkers) and they didn't pressure us to do so! We had a blast laughing and eating! Will definitely come back to enjoy the food!

P A R K I N G

If you're lucky you'll snag a spot right in front, otherwise there's a medium sized lot in the back that could be full when you go, but if you wait a bit you...