By { Beth Weitzman

Photography by { Liam Brown and Lateef Okunnu 

Backed by the London-based Zuma Group and already a fixture in the Downtown Arts District, the second L.A. location of Inko Nito has arrived in Beverly Grove, offering contemporary Japanese cuisine and robatayaki. The 130-seat industrial space, envisioned by local design firm Studio MAI, boasts natural wood, concrete accents, exposed beams and greenery. (Book the Atrium for a perfectly private dinner for up to 40 people.) The focal point, however, is the central robata grill surrounded by casual counter and communal seating. The menu is adventurous, featuring surprising twists in dishes such as Brussels sprouts with sesame furikake and wasabi mayo; yellowtail sashimi with mizuna, yuzu truffle dressing and crispy garlic; and panko fried chicken with chili garlic yogurt. Of course all types of charcoal-grilled protein skewers—scallops, pork belly, Wagyu beef, chicken—are available. Light faves include avocado and quinoa salad with edamame, green beans and apple-wasabi dressing; and Dungeness crab tartare with wasabi mayo, chicken skin and toasted nori. The beverage program boasts specialty cocktails like Mezcal Drift (Korean rice wine, sweet vermouth, plum sake, Campari), plus locally crafted wines. Discerning guests will love the secluded bar pod, where rare Japanese whiskies are poured. Next up, brunch is on the way. Indoor and outdoor seating available. 8338 W. Third St., Los Angeles, CA, inkonitorestaurant.com