Tampopo Restaurant

15462 S Western Ave # 102, Gardena, CA 90249, United States
+1 310-323-7882
$$$ Japanese restaurant
(502 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

If you find yourself in Gardena, CA, one culinary destination you shouldn't miss is Tampopo Restaurant. This cozy Japanese establishment offers a vibrant array of dishes that capture the essence of authentic Japanese cuisine. From the moment you step inside, the warm, inviting atmosphere embraces you, promising an experience that's as much about the food as it is about the ambiance.

At Tampopo, the menu beautifully showcases a variety of traditional favorites, making it a haven for both sushi enthusiasts and ramen lovers alike. For starters, don’t miss the Bento Boxes—especially the Salmon Teriyaki Bento, which is served with rice, miso soup, and a refreshing salad, all bursting with flavor. The Nabeyaki Udon is another standout, generously filled with fried tofu, chicken, and shrimp tempura, offering a deep, satisfying flavor that warms the soul.

For those seeking something lighter, try the Salmon, Mango, and Avocado Roll. This delightful combination presents a nuanced sweet and creamy profile that dances across your palate, perfectly complemented by the Crunch Spicy Tuna Roll that delivers an exciting kick!

Customer reviews reflect a passion for quality and service that underscores the restaurant's reputation. Mary Jane Rogers raves, “The sashimi was so delicious! The fish was so fresh and beautiful. Melt in your mouth, best pieces of raw fish I've had in a long time.” It’s this level of dedication to freshness and quality that sets Tampopo apart.

While most reviews shine a glowing light on the offerings, some hints of inconsistency exist, particularly with certain ramen dishes. One customer noted that the broth fell short of expectations, which speaks to the fact that while most experiences are extraordinary, there’s always room for refinement. Nevertheless, overall sentiments lean positive, with patrons frequently praising the friendly service and the restaurant’s authentic feel.

The prices here are reasonable, making it an excellent choice for a casual dining experience or a cozy night out. Whether you're a long-time admirer of Japanese cuisine or a newcomer eager to explore flavors, Tampopo Restaurant promises a delightful culinary journey that will leave you craving more.

For a true taste of Japan right in Gardena, be sure to give Tampopo a visit at 15462 S Western Ave # 102 or call them at +1 310-323-7882. Each meal is a celebration of flavor, making every visit worth your time.

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Service options
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves comfort food
Serves happy-hour food
Serves healthy options
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with university students
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

11:30 AM - 9:30 PM

Tuesday

11:30 AM - 9:30 PM

Wednesday

11:30 AM - 9:30 PM

Thursday

11:30 AM - 9:30 PM

Friday

11:30 AM - 9:30 PM

Saturday

11:30 AM - 9:30 PM

Sunday

11:30 AM - 9:30 PM

502 Reviews
Mary Jane Rogers

22 Aug 2025

The sashimi was so delicious! The fish was so fresh and beautiful. Melt in your mouth, best pieces of raw fish I've had in a long time. Great buyer, excellent quality, especially the ahi. It was red, soft and delicate and so tasty! The staff was attentive and fast. The manager watched over everything. The cooking staff was fantastic and the sushi chefs were hopping. Excellent service, quality, food was wonderful and the experience was great. Very happy and will 100% go back again.

J L

06 Aug 2025

We came by during off peak hours for a late lunch. The huge menu meant choosing took awhile but we placed our order and food turnaround was quick. The Salmon, Mango and avocado roll was a delightful combination, sweet, creamy but light. The Crunch Spicy Tuna Roll had a decent kick that woke up the taste buds. The Tampopo Roll was covered by crispy flakes that added texture to the dish. Prices were very reasonable but serves aren't huge. Service was polite but disorganised. Decor is simple but the latticed ceiling and lamps evoke the feeling of being back in Japan. A neighbourhood gem for the locals and those in the know.

Sam G

26 Jun 2025

Everything here is amazing and well done, the food here is fantastic and delicious at a fair price, the workers here were extremely patient and friendly, always asking if we need anything or satisfied with our meals. And amazing work to the chefs who prepared such a tasty meal! I even love how the restaurant is more Japanese tradition like despite being a small restaurant, overall a 10/10, definitely would recommend coming back here or if interested in visiting here.

CH

14 Jun 2025

We came to try this place after watching the old school movie, Tampopo. Our expectations weren't high so they met it, but unfortunately, they did not exceed it. Their ramen was very mediocre, didn't taste like the broth was cooked the traditional way. It just tasted like seasoned hot water. The noodle was average as well. When we asked for the noodles to be cooked "firm", they seemed very confused which is a sign that it's not that authentic. I have to say that their combo specials are a good deal. You get more than enough food hence the 3 stars. Their service is also good and fast. I personally won't be returning due to the share amount of better quality Japanese food in the area. But this place is worth a try!

Paul T.

07 Jun 2025

There are a lot of customers in this restaurant, and the price of the food is very reasonable. The portion of ramen is very sufficient, and the barbecued pork in the noodles is big and thick. However, I am very disappointed with their fried rice because it was not hot enough, which proves that it was not made immediately after order. As for the quality of the sushi, it is just average.

Jordan Yoshimine

06 Jun 2025

Brother took my parents and me to a long time favorite of his. Sushi and ramen and other Japanese dishes. The gyoza was excellent. All the other meals/sushi were good, but not great. The service was okay, but seemed kind of disorganized. We waited a long time for check. Parking lot was packed on Friday night.

Mary The Red Panda

29 May 2025

This place is amazing!!! We order the Cha su Ramen and the Shrimp fried rice and they were FIRE!! The staff is nice and friendly~ would totally recomend this place :)

Formosa Forum (洛杉磯工作, 美食, 租屋, 聊是非)

29 May 2025

California roll Ramen sets. Ramen broth so so tasted so so.

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