Daichan

"Daichan is a tiny spot in Studio City that specializes in the kind of Japanese soul food you need after a terrible week at the office—like spicy curry udon, Japanese-style fried chicken, cold soba, and gigantic tempura rice bowls. That said, the main draw at this family-run cafe is the “original poki bowl.” Decades before chopped raw fish in plastic bowls became part of the LA food pyramid, Daichan was cranking out giant portions of fresh fish on top of rice and lettuce, so that’s probably what you should order here." - brant cox, sylvio martins

"Dish: Curry Udon Daichan is a tiny spot in Studio City that specializes in the kind of comforting Japanese food that tastes absolutely incredible after a bad week–like Japanese-style fried chicken, cold soba, and gigantic tempura rice bowls. That said, our go-to order is the spicy curry udon. This massive bowl of soup comes filled with thick, chewy udon noodles and marinated chicken all in an umami-rich, yet slightly sweet broth that never fails to reach down into the darkest parts of our psyche and make us instantly feel better." - brant cox, kat hong, nikko duren, sylvio martins

"Rainy days, after-work bites, whenever you only have $40 in your bank account (which is somehow supposed to last you until next Friday?) - Daichan is our go-to for almost any situation. This tiny spot in Studio City specializes in Japanese soul food at prices that won’t break the bank. Entrees hover around the $8-12 mark, like spicy curry udon, Japanese-style fried chicken, cold soba, and gigantic tempura rice bowls. Available for takeout and delivery." - kat hong

"Daichan is a tiny strip mall gem in Studio City that specializes in the kind of Japanese soul food you need after a terrible week at work: spicy curry udon, Japanese-style fried chicken, cold soba, and gigantic tempura rice bowls. That said, the main draw at this family-run cafe is the “original poki bowl.” Decades before chopped raw fish in plastic bowls became part of the LA food pyramid, Daichan was cranking out giant portions of fresh fish on top of rice and lettuce, so that’s probably what you should order here. " - garrett snyder

"Upon opening the door, prepare to visually drown in a sea of charming knickknacks. This homey Japanese eatery serves up authentic and contemporary twists on classic meals, ranging from noodles to rice bowls. Insider tip? Order the house special udon or poki bowl to fall head over heels in love." - Blake Kathryn