I’m not really a sushi guy, never have been. If I go with a friend who knows a lot about it, I love it. It's just that I do not know much about it myself, so it's never my first choice. Luckily, living here sushi does not have to be the only option for Japanese food. One thing I can always get into is Shabu Shabu, because I don’t need to know a whole lot other than the fact that I’m hungry. Of course, half of the fun is in the style of eating, which is a little bit going out and a little bit staying in to cook. One step inside a Shabu Shabu place and you’ll see what I mean, as each person sits in front of their own personal stove and pot of water.

A Shabu Shabu meal is similar to hot pot and consists of a plate of vegetables, a plate of thinly sliced beef, and dipping sauces. As anyone who eats it for the first time will most likely have to hear from everyone and their mother, shabu shabu translates roughly to “swish swish,” or the motion that one uses to cook the beef in the boiling water. The process is enjoyable and the result delicious, provided you cook everything properly, which really isn’t difficult. Some people don’t like going to a restaurant just to do all the ‘work’ themselves, but if you haven’t tried Shabu Shabu yet, do yourself a favor and give it a spin.

In J-town, Shabu Shabu is immensely popular at lunch and it can be difficult to get into some restaurants. There are often lines and waiting lists, two big turnoffs during any meal time. For a more accessible experience, try Yoshi’s Shabu Shabu in Sherman Oaks. The place is small and unassuming, focusing on providing friendly service and reasonable prices (around $12 for the standard meal). All the meat and vegetables are of the highest quality, and any meal can be accompanied by your choice of Japanese beer or sake.

Yoshi’s may seem underdressed, but anyone who has been to Tokyo can tell that the restaurant is indeed a replica of the standard lunch fare found there, and on the right day you might even hear the person next to you slurping their noodles loudly. Most importantly, Yoshi’s is a stellar example of a unique restaurant, and one that any first-timer can be comfortable at. Provided they can use chopsticks, of course.

Yoshi’s Shabu Shabu
13573 Ventura Blvd
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
(818) 995-1660