Location: 424 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012. (213) 229-8200
Date: November 15, 2024
Cuisine: Japanese
Rating: Great modern Japanese comfort food
I last went here about a decade ago with the Babykillers — and before that to BOS in this same spot. BOS was good, but kinda extreme, being an offal restaurant. The owners then rebooted the space as Kinjiro, a modern Izakaya (bar with food), which has proved very popular.
It looks pretty much the same as it did before, with slight superficial alterations.
Once upon a time, a boy named Ninomiya Kinjiro rose from humble origins and became one of the most beloved statesmen in Japan, bringing food and joy to the people during hard times via agricultural reform.
We, Nomiya (“Tavern”) KINJIRO, strive to carry on our namesake’s mission and bring happiness to our customers via good food & drink.
The menu.
Uni, Ikura, Scallop & Blue Crab (1pc | single serving). Dashi-seasoned Ikura. Very soft with a sweet and “sour” dashi. Lovely.
King Salmon Sashimi (New Zealand | 7pc). Great salmon.
Cured Mackerel “Saba Kobujime” Sashimi. Lovely and oily (in a great way).
American Wagyu Beef Tataki. Soft and meaty.
Assorted “Nukazuke” Pickles. Not quite as sour (or sweet) as I might like.
Kibinago Japanese Sardine Tempura. Great.
Agedashi Fried Tofu with Organic Mushrooms Ankake Sauce. Always the best!
Chilean Sea Bass with Saikyo Miso. Very light and lovely.
Uni Risotto. Super soft and yummy.
Free-range Duck Breast with Kanzuri.
Thick-cut Beef Tongue with Yuzu Negi. Chewy, hot, and delicious.
Beef Tendon, Tongue Miso Stew. Deep and rich.
Hot Inaniwa Udon Noodles with Braised Beef Tongue Soup. Not really udon, but very Pho-like.
Beef Tongue Curry Rice. Awesome!
Marinated American Wagyu Boneless Short Rib. Yum.
American Wagyu Sukiyaki-Don (Simmered Beef over Rice, Poached Egg).
Overall, an amazingly fun night. Great company. Great wines. And some really tasty comfort food that paired very well.