Izakaya Hachi

"10 years ago, they were arguably one of the best Izakaya in the area. Then COVID. We went twice, and the menu was significantly reduced, food was mediocre at best, service was awful, but gave them a pass due to possible pandemic issues. Finally revisited. Stood around for 10 min before anyone even talked to me. Then they wanted to give us a bad table, I had to assertively ask for a better table that they were saving in case they needed it later ( it was already 8:30 pm.) Then we went to open our wine as we had done many times in the past. They told us the corkage was now $40 which is fine, but then said our table of 4 could not open a second bottle. I said I would pay corkage and it went back and forth and then they agreed we could open two but had to pay $60 EACH. We walked. This place clearly never got the memo about Japanese restaurants and the expectation of omentenashi (hospitality.) If you want a good izakaya in the area, stick to Otafuku."

"Place a reservation in advance. Walk in and you will find a lively and cozy atmosphere. The price reflects the quality of the ingredients. I ordered a hot tea, but they have a whole menu of alcohol and non alcoholic options. Everything I had was unparalleled in terms of freshness and flavor. Tuna Avocado Tartare - the first dish out, very fresh and wonderfully plated. Shishito Mushrooms - the bonito flakes were still dancing! I would get this next time, the season on the mushrooms was very deep and savory. Sashimi plate - there is a minimum order of 2, but it was well worth it. Uni Wagyu - My favorite dish of the night! Beef Tongue - I got this based on other reviews recommendations, and it did not disappoint. Kimchi pork - while very good, not something I would re-order. Pumpkin Zenzai - leave space. The flavor is worth it."

"Top Items: - Beef BBQ Yakiniku Salad - Uni & US Kobe Beef Sashimi - Beef Tongue - Yuzu Pork Cheek --- Review --- This is a great and authentic izakaya spot nested in Torrance. They have a pretty large menu for both food and drinks alongside weekly/daily special (make sure you ask for it). You have the option to order their omakase (preselected items) for $58/person with 4 people minimum or order a la carte. I would say both options are equal value so I personally prefer to order exactly what I want. Similar to any izakaya places, the portion size isn't the biggest so don't expect to be stuffed. The food is good but not the best I've ever had. They can get pretty busy so reservation is recommended. Great service with attentive staff. Parking lot is small so you might have to park in neighboring strip malls or on the street. Expect to pay $70-100 per person. Worth a try! I'll be returning!"

"Visited here in 2017, and had dreams over the years about how amazing the pork shabu/Ramen dish is. Back now in 2023 having visited Japan and eaten a couple dozen bowls of Ramen, and still this place is just as tasty as ever. All ingredients are super fresh, and the flavoring is just perfect. The place is nice too with a wood decorated facade, and the staff were attended helpful."

"One of our favorite izakaya restaurants in the South Bay. The food is excellent along with their service. Reservations are available on OpenTable. Restaurant does get busy on the weekends so reservations are recommended. Highly recommend their motsunabe Hot Pot and the grilled beef tongue. Can't go wrong with any of their menu items as everything we tried was delicious. Their sister restaurant is manpuku which is right next door."