"Ototo is the more laidback sister to nexdoor izakaya Tsubaki, offering fun sake and beer pours in a no-reservations space. The restaurant serves creative takes on Japanese drinking snacks like karaage, kabocha tempura, okonomiyaki topped with a choice of rock shrimp or curry mushroom and cheese. Explore the drinks menu with guidance from the servers, who can recommend bottles for any palate, whether looking for an unfiltered sake or something more floral. Ototo also just happens to serve one of LA’s best burgers — the messy Ode to Mos topped with Japanese-style chili." - Rebecca Roland