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Nestled in the vibrant Echo Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, Tsubaki offers a refined take on traditional Japanese izakaya fare. This spot is perfect for food lovers seeking seasonal small plates, noodle specialties, and inventive drinks in an intimate setting. The menu is crafted to showcase fresh ingredients and a balance of bold, nuanced flavors that elevate classic favorites with a modern twist.
Starters
Begin your culinary journey with an array of thoughtfully prepared starters that highlight both texture and umami. The Chicken Cartilage Skewer delivers a crunchy, seasoned bite that sets the tone, while the Kani Corn Korokke combines sweet crab meat with crisp breadcrumbs for a delightful contrast. Don't miss the Japanese Latkes, crispy potato pancakes infused with subtle seasonings, or the savory Yakitori skewers that bring tender grilled chicken with traditional seasonings to the table. For a unique chilled option, the silky Chawanmushi is a delicate egg custard infused with Dungeness crab and a hint of wasabi. The Japanese 'Caesar' Salad is a standout, featuring crisp lettuce with a miso dressing and panko breadcrumbs for an unexpected Japanese spin. Lastly, Yaki-Onigiri offers perfectly grilled rice balls wrapped with seaweed and brushed with soy sauce, a comforting and satisfying starter.
Mains
Tsubaki’s mains are a celebration of Japanese flavors with seasonal influences, designed to share and savor. The Sakuni presents a beautifully braised pork belly served alongside pumpkin and mustard greens, accented with aromatic Arima sansho pepper. Indulge in the Kani Chahan, a garlic fried rice elevated with fresh Dungeness crab for rich umami depth. The Buta Rosu Shio Koji-Yaki features tender pork loin marinated in shio koji with fennel pollen and a luscious curry butter finish. Seafood lovers will appreciate the Ebi Sumibi-Yaki, with Caledonian blue prawns complemented by a bright yuzu kosho tartar sauce. For a taste of premium beef, the Wagyu Kushiyaki skewers are seasoned to perfection and grilled to showcase the meat's natural richness. Lighten your meal with Oshinko, a selection of crisp pickled vegetables, or savor the Kanpachi Crudo, which highlights fresh kanpachi fish with delicate seasonings.
Desserts
Complete your meal with Tsubaki’s signature Hojicha Soft Cream, a creamy dessert infused with roasted green tea that offers a subtly smoky, soothing finish. This Japanese-inspired ice cream is the perfect balance of lightness and flavor to round out your dining experience.
Drinks and Specials
Tsubaki’s beverage program complements the menu with an enticing selection of sake, craft beers, and inventive cocktails that capture the essence of Japanese flavors and seasonal freshness. Though not detailed here, guests can expect well-curated drinks perfect for pairing with small plates or enjoying a relaxed evening atmosphere.
- Starters Chicken Cartilage Skewer, Kani Corn Korokke, Japanese Latkes, Yaki-Onigiri, Yakitori, Chawanmushi, Japanese 'Caesar' Salad
- Mains Sakuni, Kani Chahan, Buta Rosu Shio Koji-Yaki, Ebi Sumibi-Yaki, Wagyu Kushiyaki, Tebasaki, Oshinko, Kanpachi Crudo
- Dessert Hojicha Soft Cream
