Soba Samurai

A friendly and well-run noodle house in Gardena with an solid selection of both cold and hot noodles, as well as mouth-watering Izakaya for Dinner.

Otafuku

(Gardena) Japanese

1st Thing You Need to Order: Soba with Assorted Vegetable Tempura, a full assortment of unique, yet familiar vegetables such as eggplant, bell pepper, shiso leaf, kabocha (Japanese Pumpkin), onion, asparagus and green onion.

Ordering System: Old fashioned customer service with a smile, post-meal check (+tip)

Having lived down the road from this location in Gardena in the past year, I noticed it's accessibility and was drawn to it from day one of discovering it. Having attempted the business across the street a few times and realized the wait and the crowds were not to my liking, I quickly became a regular at this location and continue to show up with

friends and family on a regular basis. I specifically enjoy their Plum Wine and on occasion have been known to indulge in a nice Hibiki or Suntory whisky (single on ice). As a lunch and dinner establishment their hours do range (closed from 2:30pm until 5:30pm most days), however mentioning the increased popularity only means a busier environment. That being said, I try to beat the rush and in addition always return the favor of amazing customer service with a well-deserved tip. I feel obligated to mention also that their Izakaya selection matches, if not exceeds expectations of those found even in Korea town or Downtown Los Angeles. I enjoy the Yakitori (Chicken Livers are To-Die-For!), Tamago appetizer and also their handmade Onigiri is on point. Without fail they even list a small but delicious dessert menu including an incredibly sweet and decadent Adzuki bean soup. Great for a small group of 3-4 whom are prepared for a light, yet elevated dinning experience in a pocket of Gardena.

Cold Soba noodles with Assorted Tempura, dipping sauce (with just a bit of yuzu peel) and accompanied green onion and fresh wasabi.

Pro Tip: If you finish your cold noodles, a server will most likely bring over a pot of the Soba Base (pour into dipping sauce, sip, enjoy).

Veteran Tip: Closed Tuesdays.

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Soba

A very light and refreshing summertime dish, where noodles are served cold with dipping sauce (or hot) and enjoyed with accompanied vegetables, seafood or other specifically light paired dishes. Having originated in China, it made it's way to Japan during the Jomon period (10,000 BC to 300 BC), and records also depict the recipe including buckwheat flour, grown to help fight famine during the Nara period (700 BC to 794 BC). Soba is also known to agree with most weight-loss diets, used as a good source of fiber and protein.

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