Santa Monica is known for its eclectic dining scene, but few restaurants offer an authentic taste of Japan quite like Kappo Miyabi. This hidden gem is a traditional izakaya, where guests can experience the heart of Japanese culinary culture in a casual yet refined atmosphere. Featuring expertly grilled kushiyaki (skewers), Kappo Miyabi delivers a dining experience that blends flavors, textures, and aromas straight from a Japanese charcoal grill.
What is an Izakaya? (Kappo Miyabi)
An izakaya is a type of informal Japanese bar that serves a variety of small, tapas-style dishes that pair perfectly with drinks. Traditionally, these establishments were a place to unwind after a long day, offering food that is designed to be shared. At Kappo Miyabi, this centuries-old tradition is alive and well, with dishes served to encourage conversation, laughter, and an appreciation of fine cuisine.
The Charcoal-Grilled Perfection of Kushiyaki
The Charcoal-Grilled Perfection of KushiyakiAt the heart of the dining experience at Kappo Miyabi is the kushiyaki, or skewered items grilled over a charcoal flame. The menu offers a diverse range of meats, vegetables, and seafood, all prepared with precision and grilled to perfection. The high heat of the charcoal grill enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, providing a smoky aroma and a succulent texture that is hard to replicate by other means of cooking.
The Meat Offerings at Kappo Miyabi
Kappo Miyabi’s kushiyaki selection features an impressive lineup of meat options, each served with a touch of salt and pepper to let the natural flavors shine through.
•Japanese Pork Sausage: A flavorful, juicy sausage with a slight snap when you bite into it.
•Quail Egg: A delightful, creamy skewer that is a unique offering for adventurous eaters.
•Pork Belly: Known for its rich, fatty texture, the pork belly is a melt-in-your-mouth favorite.
•Pork Short Rib: Tender and flavorful, the short rib skewer is grilled to perfection with just the right amount of char.
•Organic Chicken Cartilage: This skewer offers a crunchy texture and a savory flavor, often considered a delicacy in Japanese cuisine.
•Organic Chicken Gizzard: Perfectly seasoned and grilled, this skewer has a distinct chew and deep, savory flavor.
•Organic Chicken Heart: A slightly gamey, protein-packed skewer for those looking to try something new.
•Organic Chicken Skin: Crispy and delicious, this skewer is perfect for fans of texture.
•Organic Chicken Thigh with Scallions: Juicy chicken paired with the freshness of scallions makes this a well-balanced skewer.
•Organic Chicken Wing: Another classic offering, grilled to crispy perfection.
•Lamb: Tender and flavorful, the lamb skewer brings a bold taste to the table.
•Organic Chicken Meatball (Tsukune): A standout dish, this skewer is tender and flavorful, with the perfect balance of seasoning.
•Prime Beef: Rich, tender beef that is perfectly seared on the grill.
•Beef Tongue: For those looking for something a bit more adventurous, the beef tongue is a must-try with its unique texture.
•A5 Wagyu: The pinnacle of beef, A5 Wagyu offers an unmatched level of marbling, tenderness, and flavor.
Fresh Vegetables Served with Yakitori Tare
For those looking for lighter fare, the vegetable skewers at Kappo Miyabi are equally delicious and cooked to bring out their natural sweetness.
•Okra: Grilled just enough to bring out its natural flavors, this skewer is slightly crunchy and refreshing.
•Shishito Pepper: Known for its mild heat, the shishito pepper offers a burst of flavor with each bite.
•Shiitake Mushroom: Earthy and meaty, the shiitake mushroom skewer is a vegetarian favorite, perfectly seasoned and grilled.
Seafood lovers won’t be disappointed at Kappo Miyabi, where the charcoal grill brings out the best in each of their offerings.
•Oyster (with Yakitori Tare): This skewer offers a rich, briny flavor that pairs perfectly with the slightly sweet yakitori tare sauce.
•Scallop (with Salt & Pepper): Simple yet elegant, the scallops are perfectly grilled, highlighting their delicate, sweet flavor.
•Chilean Sea Bass (with Yakitori Tare): A luxurious offering, the Chilean sea bass is buttery and rich, complemented by the slight sweetness of the tare sauce.
Bacon-Wrapped Delights
For an extra layer of indulgence, try one of the bacon-wrapped skewers, where the smoky, salty flavor of bacon pairs beautifully with the grilled ingredients.
•Bacon Wrapped Asparagus: The crispy bacon perfectly complements the fresh, crunchy asparagus.
•Bacon Wrapped Enoki: Enoki mushrooms, with their delicate texture, are elevated by the richness of the bacon.
•Bacon Wrapped Quail Egg: The creamy quail egg wrapped in bacon creates a delightful contrast of textures.
•Bacon Wrapped Shrimp: The smoky bacon enhances the sweet, tender shrimp for a flavor-packed bite.
The Traditional Izakaya Atmosphere
Walking into Kappo Miyabi feels like stepping into an authentic Japanese izakaya. The warm, dim lighting and rustic décor set the stage for a relaxed yet vibrant dining experience. The open kitchen allows guests to watch as their skewers are grilled over the charcoal flame, adding to the sensory experience of dining here. Whether you’re seated at the bar or at a table, the intimate setting makes for the perfect place to unwind with friends or enjoy a casual date night.
Pairing Your Skewers with a Beverage
While Kappo Miyabi offers a wide variety of drink options, from sake to non-alcoholic beverages, it’s worth noting that I personally do not consume alcohol. For those who are in the same camp, Kappo Miyabi’s selection of non-alcoholic beverages is thoughtfully curated. You can still enjoy a refreshing, flavorful drink that complements the rich flavors of the skewers, such as a sparkling water or a cold iced tea.
A Culinary Journey Through Japan
Kappo Miyabi offers more than just food; it provides a true journey into Japanese culture through its cuisine. The careful attention to detail in each dish—from the precise grilling technique to the minimalist presentation—reflects the heart and soul of traditional Japanese cooking. Dining here is not just about satisfying your hunger, but about experiencing the artistry and craftsmanship of Japanese chefs.
A Destination for Foodies in Santa Monica
Whether you’re a seasoned lover of Japanese cuisine or trying kushiyaki for the first time, Kappo Miyabi is a must-visit for foodies in Santa Monica. Its commitment to quality ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and authentic izakaya ambiance makes it stand out in the bustling food scene of Los Angeles.
For those looking to indulge in high-quality skewers—whether it’s the luxurious A5 Wagyu or the simple delight of a grilled shiitake mushroom—Kappo Miyabi offers an unparalleled dining experience that will transport you to the heart of Japan.
Why Kappo Miyabi Should Be on Your List
Santa Monica is home to many fine dining establishments, but what sets Kappo Miyabi apart is its dedication to tradition. While many restaurants try to put a modern twist on classic dishes, Kappo Miyabi sticks to time-honored techniques, letting the natural flavors of each ingredient speak for themselves. This focus on simplicity and quality is what makes the food here truly exceptional.
Kappo Miyabi is more than just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of the izakaya dining experience, offering a window into Japanese culture and hospitality. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a casual night out or explore the world of Japanese cuisine, Kappo Miyabi is the perfect spot to enjoy delicious, carefully crafted food in a relaxed setting.
Kappo Miyabi should be at the top of your list when it comes to traditional Japanese dining in Santa Monica. From the expert grilling techniques to the variety of dishes offered, this izakaya brings a taste of Japan to the California coast.
1.Kappo Miyabi Official Website
4.Kappo Miyabi Yelp Sashimi Reviews
5.Discover Los Angeles – Kappo Miyabi on dineLA
