OTOTO

"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

"One of Farley Elliott's favorite places to eat in LA." - Eater Staff

"Few burgers justify the knife and fork treatment, but the Ode to Mos at Ototo just might. The happy hour-only special that pays homage to one of Japan’s most popular fast-food burgers is served with a heaping pile of Japanese chili, tomato, and special sauce. The plush sesame bun takes a supporting role to the rest of the bite, doing its best to hold the burger together. It’s a little messy, but worth the extra napkins it’ll take." - Rebecca Roland, Eater Staff

"At any time of year, Ototo serves its seasonal dishes and menu alongside its James Beard Award-winning beverage program. During the 2024 MLB season, Ototo will offer a dine-in-only teishoku or “set meal” available on home game days. For $35, choose from cod tempura, pan-seared Jidori chicken, or pan-seared tofu with potato salad, pickles, seasonal vegetables, rice, and egg." - Matthew Kang, Mona Holmes

"Echo Park izakaya Ototo is transforming into a Japanese 7-Eleven for one night only on October 31. For the menu, Ototo will recreate convenience store classics like the fluffy, crustless egg salad sandwiches and onigiri stuffed with mayo tuna. Guests are welcome to come in costume and early arrival is encouraged since the evening is walk-ins only." - Rebecca Roland