Sometimes the traditional decor of an izakaya does more for the experience than the food — but when the beer- and sake-friendly dishes also deliver, the place becomes a Shohei Ohtani home run. That’s the situation at Izakaya Hachi, a classic drinking spot favored by nearby Honda corporate employees and longtime regulars from Torrance’s historically Japanese neighborhood. With large wood tables, a counter facing the semi-open kitchen, and more cloistered booths toward the back in the dimly lit space, Hachi offers a convivial place for grilled skewers, comforting hot pots, and mackerel sushi washed down by ice-cold mugs of Asahi.
The blackboard specials also feature seasonal fish that would match some of the best sushi spots in town. In the past, much of the blackboard was only written in Japanese, so ask the server for any highlights that aren’t scribbled in English. Those in Costa Mesa will find another branch of Izakaya Hachi with a similar menu.
An izakaya meal only gets better with the right drinks. The list features crisp Sapporo and Asahi on draft, mid-range bottles like Hakkaisan and Dassai 23, and even Japanese craft beers Kawaba snow wizen.