Take fried chicken and a hole-in-the-wall restaurant (two of my favorite things) and you’ve got Anzu Japanese Gourmet in Sawtelle. Yes, “Gourmet” may seem a bit strange, but Anzu’s food is much better than what you might expect from a place which serves food out of a window.

Orders are placed at the aforementioned window. The menu offers rice dishes, a chicken salad, and burgers and hot dogs (food that you would expect from a hole-in-the-wall). Seating is limited to a tiny patio area out front.

The karaage chicken rice dish comes with your choice of dip – mayo, ponzu, tartar or siracha mayo – and a side salad. The salad had corn, tomatoes, cucumbers and edamame in a tasty dressing. I like the that they put the extra effort into their salad, instead of just having shredded lettuce.

The chicken was perfect, with a light crispy coating on the outside, and moist inside. It paired nicely with the ponzu dip which gave it a refreshing zing. I think I sighed with happiness while eating it.

For an additional $3.50, you can make it a combo with fries and a drink. Their fries are dangerously addictive, battered and fried. Eat them at your own risk. Drink choices include bottled water, Perrier and even San Pellegrino. Fancy!

If you like fried chicken, you must try Anzu Japanese Gourmet. Anzu definitely proves that you can’t judge a book by its cover.

Location – 11270 La Grange Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Website – http://anzujapanesegourmetlosangeles4.topcuisinecafe.online
Kid-Friendly – Yes
Kid’s Menu – No
Vegetarian/Vegan Friendly – No. Only rice, salad and fries.
Gluten-Free Friendly – Yes