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Los Angeles, CA

Expanding a Japanese-inspired restaurant with enhanced offerings and improved guest experiences.

• Positive recognition: Featured as a “hidden gem” by Infatuation Los Angeles.
• Cultural participation: Participated in the 81st Nisei Week Japanese Festival, celebrating Japanese-American culture.
• Enhanced offerings: Plans to introduce izakaya-style dinner services.
• Operational improvements: Investing in new equipment, staff training, and working capital.
• Community focus: Dedicated to bringing authentic Japanese culinary traditions to Los Angeles.

Guzzu Bento-Ya is seeking funding to enhance its restaurant offerings and guest experience by adding new equipment, securing an alcohol license, and introducing izakaya-style dinner services. Founded by two brothers inspired by their travels to Japan, the restaurant focuses on bringing authentic Japanese bento culture to the vibrant Arts District of Los Angeles. By investing in infrastructure and staffing, the company aims to improve operational efficiency and cater to a wider audience, further establishing itself as a unique culinary destination.

The funds raised will support the restaurant’s vision to elevate its dining experience while maintaining its commitment to high-quality, Japanese-inspired cuisine. Planned improvements include marketing and public relations efforts, employee training, and securing additional working capital to sustain growth. Guzzu Bento-Ya envisions expanding its reach and creating a welcoming environment where guests can enjoy traditional flavors with modern touches, fostering community and culinary appreciation.

Company Info

Guzzu Bento-Ya is a Japanese-inspired restaurant in Los Angeles, specializing in bento boxes and expanding with new offerings and locations.

Guzzu Bento-Ya is a Japanese-inspired restaurant located in Los Angeles, California, that specializes in bento boxes, offering a variety of flavors and vibrant ingredients. The restaurant was founded by two brothers, Len and Anthony Hayashi, who were inspired by their travels to Japan where they witnessed the widespread enjoyment of bento boxes on trains. The restaurant, which opened in 2022, emphasizes both the convenience and flavor of traditional Japanese bento offerings in a modern setting. Located in the vibrant Arts District, Guzzu Bento-Ya serves as a community hub, showcasing Japanese culture through its food offerings.

The restaurant has garnered positive attention from various food critics, including being recognized by Infatuation Los Angeles as a “hidden gem.” In addition to its traditional bento offerings, Guzzu Bento-Ya plans to expand its offerings with izakaya-style dinners, enhancing its guest experiences and growing its reach. The owners are committed to expanding their brand, with plans to open multiple locations in Southern California within the next few years. Guzzu Bento-Ya aims to continue offering convenient and healthy Japanese-inspired meals, combining convenience with authenticity.