Amachi - Whittier

Food was definitely not authentic Japanese. No sushi, daikon or oshiri, any of the things you want or look for in Japanese menu. The sashimi is just 1 piece of tuna, cut in to 4 small pieces lol. I really hate to say it as it was, but the only reason I 'd go back is to help the obachan owner out. She 's super nice and so kawaii,but food is catered more to hakujin pallet.

I'm writing this review as someone who cannot stand teriyaki sauce. This place prepares mostly that, so my rating is partially based on the small menu, but due to my bias, I cannot review the teriyaki itself. The restaurant is arranged with booths lining the walls, and some tables in the center. There is an unused pastry case and room dividers blocking off a third of the dining room, but they are decorated with family photos of patrons, which is very sweet. Staff greeted us and seated us right away. Service during both our visits was sincere and timely. I got the feeling that the staff enjoy working there. The meal starts with miso soup and an iceberg lettuce salad. Delightful to see these days as complimentary appetizers become scarce. What my spouse and I have ordered across two visits: Beef sukiyaki: Distractingly sweet. Not sure if this is typical sukiyaki. Beef was tender. Chicken kushi: Despite googling this and ordering with confidence, I got surprise teriyaki or teriyaki-adjacent sauce. Good cook on the chicken, though. To go with their beer selection, I would love to see karaage as an option. Fried tofu: Straight forward, but a good deal for $5. There may have been a dipping sauce on the side that made the combination similar to agedashi tofu. Veggie tempura: Good variety of vegetables, great crunch. Curry katsu: Pretty standard fare. Good crunch on chicken, familiar curry taste, though a little too sweet. Again, most of the combos and entrees involve teriyaki sauce. It would be nice to offer more variety, like vegetables, different sauces, or soba/udon-based dishes. Shishito, mushrooms, and bell pepper could make great skewer options.

Good food. Amazing staff. Out of there way to make you feel at home. A1

The reviews don't lie, this place is great. Definitely worth a visit.

My family and I have been going here all my life and the food is amazing the service is amazing and the staff I consider family as they are all very friendly! No other place compares to this!