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Local Positioning: Little Tokyo

A guide to eating, shopping and sightseeing in Little Tokyo

By Sarah Ardalani

Special to Metromix
August 27, 2008

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(Credit: Sarah Ardalani)

Once a haven for Japanese immigrants, Little Tokyo is now host to upscale lofts and apartments for the Downtown set, as well as Japanese specialty stores and traditional restaurants dishing shabu-shabu, ramen and sushi. Although the area has been inﬁltrated by major brands like American Apparel, Angelenos who know better head straight to the small shops located in the various plazas—all just a hop, skip and hand roll from one another. Wanna go Metro? Civic Center is your stop.

Mitsuru Cafe

117 Japanese Village Plaza Mall - LA

213-687-4811

For those who love takoyaki (octopus dumpling) or imagawayaki (red bean cake), Mitsuru Cafe is the place to go for fried treats. The cafe also sells fried shrimp balls and the always-tasty shumai. Such good food comes at a price, though: Expect a line.

Mikawaya Mochi

118 Japanese Village Mall - Los Angeles

213-628-6514

On a hot summer day, who wants frozen yogurt when you can eat mochi ice cream, a sweet pillow of heaven? Serving pastries and ice cream since 1910, Mikawaya Mochi has its own retail store in the Village Plaza and provides customers with a variety of delectable treats including gelato, ice cones and pastries. Once you’ve got your hands on some tasties, soak up some rays while eating at the steps of the plaza fountain.

Japanese American National Museum

369 East First Street - Los Angeles

213-625-0414

Before you ﬁll your stomach and empty your pockets in Little Tokyo, head to the Japanese American National Museum. Located next to the Geffen Contemporary, JANM holds many events—including festivals, lab projects and workshop classes—in addition to permanent and revolving exhibitions. The newly opened branch of Chado Tea Room offers 300 different varieties of tea from around the world.

Tokyo Japanese Outlet

114 Japanese Village Plaza Mall - Los Angeles

213-628-8811

Think of this outlet as Little Tokyos equivalent of the 99 Cents Only Store, but with more fun and brighter colors. Youll ﬁnd any household item you can think of: bowls, plates, knives, socks, even fake eyelashes. If youre constantly on the go, this emporium is your one-stop shop.

Blooming Art Galary

129 Japanese Plaza Mall - Los Angeles

213-628-8811

Tucked away in a corner at the Japanese Village Plaza mall, this gallery sells small and large artworks, as well as sale-marked trinkets for those on a budget. Also ﬁnd outdoor novelties like umbrellas, wind chimes and bonsai trees.