Results tagged “japanese” from Bentorama

Last week, I visited Tampopo Ramen, a Japanese restaurant in the food court-like Plaza Walk building in Rowland Heights. Last night, I happened to wander by the area again and saw a sign in front of the restaurant that announced its closure on June 2.

Today, I called up the restaurant to confirm it was actually closing forever, not just on one day.

Yes, it's true. They're closing.

The person on the phone, who sounded like the owner, said he's received many compliments about the food and condolences about their closing. The man said operating costs are high, as are the rent and parking fees. There's another Tampopo Ramen in Gardena, although he's not the owner-operator. The man says he doesn't have any plans to open at another location this year. Their last day is June 1.

If you have time before June 2, check it out. I really enjoyed it, and even started writing a review for it for the Highlanders...

When a restaurant gets shut down by the Health Department, it's not only embarrassing for the restaurant owners/managers, it's also embarrassing for its customers.

On Thursday, Bishamon, a Japanese restaurant in downtown Covina, had this sign on the front door. "Closed due to construction."

The front window displayed the Health Department's closure notice. "Vermin infestation, no hot water, scored below 70."

I couldn't believe it. I've eaten at this restaurant at least a dozen times, and I go there about once a month. The restaurant has plenty of customers, and the sushi bar is usually full. I thought the food was pretty good and never dreamed about unsanitary conditions in the kitchen.

I've even taken my friends to Bishamon and recommended it to others. How embarrassing.

There's no way to know that these poor conditions were around when I dined there, but it certainly makes you wonder.