Manpuku Japanese BBQ Los Angeles

"I really like this chain barbecue restaurant. Among them, the Santa Monica branch is the only one where you can barbecue with charcoal. It's charming because you can eat like grilling meat while camping. All the other meats are similar in quality to other branches. Most of the servers are friendly. The only downside is that this branch does not offer the signature dish of Manpuku, Sukiyaki. It's a very delicious dish where thinly sliced high-quality meat is lightly cooked, then wrapped around sushi rice and dipped in raw egg. This dish is available at all other branches. If you want to grill meat yourself using charcoal, make a reservation for an outdoor table. But remember, Sukiyaki is not available at this branch."

"Manpuku Tokyo BBQ is just great. It is also so very crowded. I mean all the time. Make a reservation. If you don't you will not be happy. The place is just super cute, inside and out. It is very clean. The service is amazing. They are all so friendly and can help you with the menu. We tried the Nigo Shio beef tongue, have never had it, and loved it (about 18$). If you like fried rice you have to get theirs. It is just the best and goes with everything. It is a large portion for sharing and ever so tasty. The garlic rice is our favorite. The Kobe Ribeye (about $33) is not large, but so great. It is tender and juicy and perfect. That is a must for any beef eater. The Prime Boneless Short Rib (about 20$) is just the best short rib you will find in Japanese BBQ. You will also love their mushrooms, you get a variety and a large portion and it blends so well with the meat and the rest. A vegetarian or vegan can get a great meal here. Lots of vegetable dishes and noodles to be had. Just check to see what is in the noodle dish. You will love this place and all of this area on Sawtelle Blvd. It is fun, crowded and safe. Have the best time."

"The meat was well-marinated that elevate the dining experience. The staff, in addition to being friendly, is consistently attentive, donning welcoming smiles that enhance the inviting atmosphere. The combination of delicious food and excellent service makes Manpuku a standout choice for Japanese BBQ enthusiasts in Los Angeles."

"What I truly miss, is some pictures on the menu. I had no idea what kind of meat I was ordering to be honest and it was hard to guess how much to order for our party of 3. The staff did help out, but it would be great if the menu had more directions for this. The portions are small (100gr) but the quality was great. So it was pricey, but they do have special cuts. 1 thing that was weird, we ordered the shishito pepper assuming it would be more than 1 pepper.. it was not."

"A strong 4 ⭐ for this Sawtelle Japanese BBQ. What I liked: • Good service • Tasty shrimp and scallops • Garlic fried rice exceptional What I didn't like: • Not enough non meat options • High price point • Some dishes very slow to come out Do I recommend going? YES Will I go again? YES Was it good value? NO Price point: $$"