Soba Izakaya MINAMI - Laguna Hills, California

Michelle V.

I've had this spot bookmarked for a little over 6 years, however long they've been open. I finally had the chance to do lunch here with my husband yesterday (1/18/2025). We came right at opening and sat at the long counter in front of the kitchen. Wanted to check out the action!

The menu has expanded from one page to six which is really exciting. They have great portions, prices, and options from appetizers, dessert, array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, rice bowls, udon, soba, katsu, combination sets, and now sushi (only served on the weekends).

My husband was impressed and quite satisfied with his Nagoya Pork Katsu & Soba (cold) set. Our server Divine recommended the 2-portion over the 3-portion of soba. She was right that 3-portion is ALOT! Pork katsu was perfectly breaded and fried. Crispy and juicy at the same time. His set was like having two meals for the price of one. Delicious and very filling.

My Agedashi tofu was so flavorful, with a thick broth. I especially enjoyed the hint of ginger with the shredded white radish topping. My order of curry udon came piping hot with plenty of noodles and sliced beef topping. I appreciated our server also providing optional chili powder topping on the side too.

Our small pot of genmaicha was just what we needed to round out the rich lunch. I didn't get a chance to try out dessert or their drinks, so maybe next time! Clean establishment, wonderful menu choices, and professional staff. We will definitely be back to try more!

PS - I encourage dining at the long counter. It was so cool to watch chef make the yakitori and add all the finishing touches to every dish. It was almost like watching Top Chef right in front of you. All her kitchen staff moved as one team despite their dedicated stations.

Mike C.

Tasty Japanese dishes. Tempura was spot on and beef gyudon was delicious. Excellent service provided by the hostess.

Ray

Food was nice, but highly do not recommend for vegetarians. All soups were fish/meat based. I had a tofu salad which was alright. Have to say I was disappointed with the service, as our waitress was not very educated on dietary restrictions. She recommended me the udon, claiming it was vegetarian, and then proceeded to tell me it had fish in it. I understand vegetarianism is not common in Japanese culture but servers should at least know which dishes are vegetarian and which aren’t. Shaved ice was nice however too artificial and not shaved finely.

Vito S.

From the moment you step into Soba Izakaya MINAMI, you're not just entering a restaurant; you're embarking on a culinary journey to the heart of Japan. This isn't your run-of-the-mill Japanese eatery; it's a testament to the art of Soba and Yakitori, crafted with passion and precision.

Let's talk about the star of the show: the Soba. Handmade from scratch with a level of care that borders on reverence, each bowl is a masterclass in texture and taste. The Curry Soba is a standout dish, a harmonious blend of spice and comfort that warms you from the inside out. It's not just food; it's a warm hug in a bowl.

But why stop there? MINAMI's Yakitori selection takes you on a delectable detour off the beaten path. Among the jewels in their crown are the Squid legs - grilled to perfection, offering a smoky, succulent experience that leaves you craving more. It's a bold choice on the menu, and it pays off beautifully, showcasing their knack for elevating traditional dishes with a twist.

The ambiance of the place, with its intimate setting and warm lighting, complements the meal perfectly, creating an atmosphere that's both inviting and authentically Japanese. The staff's attentiveness and knowledge of the menu add to the experience, making you feel both valued and enlightened.

In conclusion, Soba Izakaya MINAMI is more than just a dining destination; it's a culinary treasure that beckons to be explored. For the lovers of Soba, Yakitori, and Japanese cuisine at its most authentic and innovative, this is your haven. As you savor each bite, remember: you're not just eating; you're part of a story - a delicious narrative spun with soba and skewers.

Katiee91 V.

Well... I don't think the chef tastes the soup base... very salty... there is no other option about it, even though you told the server.
I poured cold water inside it... well... still... maybe I expected too much...🫠😒

roostahktchn M.

I ordered the hot beef udon soup, the broth is good but not much "shaved" beef for the bowl. Also, I didn't realize an additional udon for $5 (premade by some wherelse), so it was totally $22 for a bowl of soup with little meat and nothing else... the tempura was excellent. I really appreciated the waiter, he is so polite and attentive.

Dee

We absolutely love the soba here! I always order mine hot with seaweed and an egg. One of the best parts is that you can customize your portion size, with the option to add up to three portions—I usually go for two, and it’s always satisfying. The gyoza and karrage are our favorite appetizers (also the sushi rolls, available only on weekends, are also delicious). The food quality is excellent, and the service is always great!

Marsha C.

Small Japanese cafe Ambiance. There was a small wait due to its popularity and we went on a Friday night.

Service was super quick. Our waiter talked a little too fast and we only understood 90% of what he was saying but understood the most important parts.

Had the Takoyaki which was delicious. Each ball had a bite of octopus in the center. Great flavor.

The tempura was also very good. Not too much batter which is the way I like it.

The curry pork cutlet and hot udon combo was larger than I thought. They were both delicious and it was too much for me to finish.

The beef soba noodles were my favorite. Light yet full of flavor.