Hannosuke

Crispy, crunchy and featherweight light, the panko-encrusted pieces of eel, shrimp and vegetables at this food court stall inside the Mar Vista Mitsuwa are some of best pieces of tempura in the city and one of the best budget-friendly Japanese meals to be had in L.A. The delicate egg and shiso pepper on top of any tendon set, plus a crunchy sheet of nori, add layers of flavor and fried goodness to this first-rate cafeteria-style meal, while pickled ginger and rice balance out all the deep-fried decadence. Though the menu's most premium set includes anago (saltwater eel)—listed as the Edomae Plate—you don't need to order it to experience the best of Hannosuke; the original, which uses white fish, is just as delicious for first-time customers. If the Westside is too far for you, you can also go to Tempura Tendon Carlos Jr in Torrance and Pasadena, which was started by a former Hannosuke chef.