Welcome to Shoya
At Shoya, nestled in Lomita, CA, we celebrate the essence of Japanese cuisine with a unique twist. Our small eatery, reminiscent of a cozy izakaya, invites you to slow down and savor the flavors—each plate crafted with care and bursting with umami. Guests have raved about our signature oden and dishes like garlic ginger black pork, showcasing the depth of traditional Japanese culinary art. The handwritten menu evolves constantly, ensuring a memorable experience for every visit. With just ten bar seats, the intimate setting fosters quiet conversations, while our impressive sake selection complements each exquisite dish.
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1920 Pacific Coast Hwy, Lomita, CA 90717 Hotline: (310) 534-3319
Welcome to Shoya, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Lomita, California. This cozy Japanese-Aisan fusion restaurant offers a remarkable dining experience that invites you to slow down and savor every moment. Located at 1920 Pacific Coast Hwy, this quaint eatery is not just another casual spot; it's a culinary journey that transports you straight to Japan.
Stepping into Shoya is like entering a small izakaya where every dish tells a story. With bar seating for just ten, the intimate setting creates a communal atmosphere, allowing diners to connect not only with the food but also with each other. The charming decor and meticulous attention to detail manifest in every plate served.
- Highlight Dish: The Oden, featuring Beet Suji, Hampen, and Konjakujelly, is a seasonal delight, warming your soul with rich flavors.
- Today's Special: Don't miss the Tonjiru, a hearty pork miso soup served with a variety of vegetables.
- Dessert: Treat yourself to the creamy Vanillapudding, an exquisite way to conclude your meal.
Customer reviews consistently highlight Shoya's unique offerings. As Darren C. graciously noted, "every dish hits the spot," emphasizing the quality and creativity behind the menu. Although some diners mention a leisurely service pace, many agree that the wait is worth it—great food should never be rushed. Lizzy R. suggests that the menu deviates from the typical, bringing unique homemade flavors that are both comforting and exciting.
For those who appreciate flavors that are rich in umami, Kelsey's experience of various small plates, including the garlicky Abalone with garlic butter and the fresh Grilled Shrimp, is a testament to the kitchen's creativity. Sophia H. praises the Grilled Wild Chicken and Garlic Ginger Black Pork, which are standout examples of Shoya's commitment to delivering dynamic flavors on every plate.
Ultimately, dining at Shoya is not merely a meal; it's a full sensory experience. With a carefully curated selection of sake to complement your food, every visit is an invitation to unwind and indulge in the art of Japanese cuisine. Just remember, this isn’t a quick-stop eatery. As David N. insightfully points out, it’s a place to contemplate life and enjoy the exquisite food that Shoya has to offer.
So, if you're ready for a culinary adventure that combines authenticity with a unique twist, visit Shoya at (310) 534-3319. Just be sure to bring your patience and appetite, as you delve into a dining experience that you won't soon forget.
every dishes hit the spot food sever a bit slow but its all worth it will definitely come again and also bring friends here too
Shoya makes you feel like you transported to Japan. The food is very Japanese but unique and not the typical izakaya with grilled chicken wings and meatball but they have some unique dishes they feel home made and are all quite tasty. The place is located in a strip mall next to a vape shops and is very small with only bar seating for about 10 people.
Small plate eatery This is NOT a quick turnaround place. It is somewhere to slow down and enjoy life Methodical service but exquisite food. Suggest ordering several plates at a time. They taste better when mixing. Great sake selection that you can order and save for next time.
Plates we have tried- listed from what I like the most to lease Grilled wild chicken Beef sukiyaki Garlic Ginger black pork Chazuke Oden-egg & daikon Overall, each plate is packed with flavor and umami. A Good date night place to come. Tip: the waiting time for each plate is a bit longer than I had anticipated. Don't come here when u are hungry - u will be hangry.
Great small plates. Dainty portions, great flavors. Hand-written menu that varies all the time. They're known for their oden, various items stewed in soup. We tried just the Chicken Ball, which was pretty good. Lots of items, great for cold and rainy winter nights. I loved the Abalone with garlic butter, and the Grilled Shrimp with sea salt is out-of-the-ocean fresh. A Cod Roe Rice Ball is hearty and dense, a necessary filler between the slow stream of courses. The Dashi Omelet and Pork Bowl are also heavier dishes, fluffy egg in sweet soup and juicy belly in sweet soy, respectively. The charm of this particular izakaya lies in its literal interpretation of "mom-and-pop". Pop makes the food and mom does everything else. That said, your food will not arrive quickly. It's a fantastic night of quiet conversation and relaxing sips of sake, but if you're looking for time-sensitive dining, this isn't the place for you.
(FOOD) Garlic ginger black pork. The most flavorful pork I've ever had but at a steep price. For 10 dollars you only get 6 pieces but each piece is LOADED with garlic and umami. I didn't know there were such flavours until I tried this place. (SERVICE) Food preparation can take a while since there is only one cook. The only waitress in the front is incredibly nice. (VENUE) This place is SMALL. Like 9 seats small with a bar countertop. It definitely has a very cozy feel. It's situated in a tiny plaza next to a smoke shop. This place is good but pricey.
Love this place!! If you like authentic Japanese food, you must check out this place!! They only have a small bar counter so I'd recommend you to give them a call if you're planning to go especially on a weekend. It is in a very sketchy area so don't hang out in the parking lot too long lol