pikunico

a japanese fried chicken-forward cafe

We love a restaurant that has a good sense of self, and Pikunico is just that. An establishment with a purpose, that knows the role it plays in the downtown food scene. Japanese fried chicken makes a solid theme in my book and the many variations (in a sandwich, in a bowl, in a basket, etc) it comes in at Pikunico makes for a solid line up. Maybe it’s the large space, and then indoor-outdoor vibe of the ROW, but it reads as a daytime eatery. Perfect for a breezy lunch, a midday break, a golden hour happy hour, a casual dinner.

The menu is pretty simple. Again, variations on a theme, fried chicken for all. Plus some fun sides and drinks (from yuzu-ade to a selection of beers) that round out what could make a killer picnic spread. Or make any old meal feel like a picnic. It’s simple but well-executed. Playful, sharable. Simultaneously nostalgic and new. In an admittedly sleepy commercial hub that still has yet to truly blossom, Pikunico is an obligatory stop for any trip to the ROW and an easy meal choice if you’re in the Arts District and want (sigh) stress free parking.

the details

Address767 S Alameda St Suite 122, Los Angeles (ROW DTLA)
Websitehttp://www.pikunico.com/
Yelphttps://www.yelp.com/biz/pikunico-los-angeles
Instagram@pikunicola
Hours11am – 7pm Monday – Thursday, 11am – 8pm Friday – Sunday
Price$$ – most things fall in the $10-20 range
Aestheticmillennial industrial, like the rest of the complex

good to know

Go here for: a casual lunch (preferably outside), a quick meal to go

Order this: can’t really go wrong with anything on the menu, so it kind of depends on the company – a bowl or sandwich is perfect for one, but a family basket with a la carte sides is more fun to share for a group

Amount of time to spend: ~30 min for a quick meal, but probably at least an hour or so to spend at the ROW

When to come: daytime is always better for the ROW

Parking: ample and free in the ROW parking structure

Other things to note: 

  • They serve beer and wine.
  • It’s counter serve and they have indoor and outdoor seating available.

Last visited: September 2021

Last updated: November 2021

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