Exile Kiss on Chowhound is the person who first turned me on to this place when it was Yakitori Binchu – I have been following the updates closely to see when they would reopen. (They were closed by the fire dept for somethng having to do with the neighbors complaining about the smoke from the charcoal.  Stupid neighbors.) 

I am so happy this place reopened.  They are so nice, so accommodating.   You have to check out his review – it is far more comprehensive than my own.  chowhound.chow.com/topics/563484 

I really think their food gives Yuzu a run for their money, and it is a heck of a lot cheaper.  THe quality of the ingredients is exceptional, as is the technique of preparation.  Plus, everyone loves the pier.  After you stuff yourself silly you get to walk around and look at the boats.  Here is what we ordered:

Ricotta Tofu – Cool, creamy, delicate, delightful

Agedashi  – Fried Tofu in broth – The broth is rich, the tofu has a nice crust on the outside and is moist and light on the inside.  THis is not that greasy stuff you get at other asian restaurants

Pork meatballs in broth – one of my favorites.  Rich, flavorful…they really know how to do a proper stock. 

Fried gizzards – I still prefer them yakitori style, but the crunch does have a certain allure

spicy chicken wings – A table favorite.  Not your daddy’s buffalo wings to be sure.  A second order was procured

Kimchee pork – Flavors were more savory then either sweet or spicy.  Almost like a stew

cherry tomatoes wrapped in bacon – Better than chocolate and peanut butter.

Pork Belly – Layers of succulent meat and fat that just melts in your mouth

Stuffed Lotus Root – (With Chicken, that is. ) I really love the soft ‘crunch” of lotus contrasted with the savory/sweet ground chicken.  It makes my mouth happy.

shrimp in mayo – Everyone liked this but me.  I just don’t like mayo on japanese food. 

takowasa  (Raw octopus and wasabi)  – Addictive flavor and texture

Zouisi  – chicken  and rice broth – I was sick recently and really wished I could send my husband out to just pick up some of this for me.  It might even be better than Jewish Chicken Soup

I can’t wait to go again…

Izakaya Bincho (formerly Yakitori Bincho)
112 N. International Boardwalk
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Tel: (310) 376-3889

Hours: Tues – Thu, 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Fri – Sun, 5:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Closed on Mondays.