Kushiba (CLOSED)

Izakayas are few and far in between in L.A., but this Osaka-style skewer specialist in Echo Park scratches the itch with brisk service, an extensive selection of beer, whiskey, sake and shochu and over 20 varieties of kushikatsu, or deep-fried and battered skewers. Sip on a shiso-inflected gin martini as you enjoy drinking food like Wagyu corned beef and chilled housemade tofu topped with a peanut-forward chili crisp. A $20 set meal gets you five kushikatsu and some raw seasonal veggies, which serve as a palate cleanser after feasting on surprisingly filling deep-fried mochi, vegetables and meat on sticks. Kissed with a touch of salt, hot mustard or tonkatsu sauce (available at every table or bar seat), the skewers offer a satisfying diversity of texture and flavor. Open from 4 to 11pm, Wednesday to Sunday, Kushiba has set its sights on capturing the pre- and post-Dodger game crowd—and while the tiny menu isn’t all that exciting, it’s a great option for Echo Park locals or whenever you find yourself in the area.