Osen Izakaya brings traditional Japanese drinking food to Sunset

Osen Izakaya sits on Sunset Boulevard in Silver Lake and does what a proper izakaya is supposed to do: give you something good to eat alongside your drinks, whether that's sushi, noodles, or seared fish. The menu spans both raw and cooked, so a table can graze widely without anyone feeling boxed in.

Nearly a thousand Google reviews at 4.4 stars puts this solidly in the reliable column. It's priced at the higher end for the neighborhood, but izakayas tend to work that way when the food is actually the point and not just an afterthought to the bar program.

There's a patio for when the weather cooperates, and the place takes reservations, which matters if you're coming with a group. They also do takeout and delivery if you'd rather bring it home. Beer and wine round out the drinks side.