Our Expert's Take
As a food journalist, I was thrilled to discover BROKEN MOUTH | Lee's Homestyle, which has quickly become a beloved spot for both locals and visitors in Los Angeles. The teriyaki chicken plate, mentioned in the review, exemplifies the restaurant's commitment to flavor and authenticity, showcasing perfectly balanced seasoning that elevates the dish beyond typical offerings. The generous portions are a bonus, ensuring that diners leave satisfied, making it a great value for those exploring the culinary landscape of the city.
Additionally, the welcoming atmosphere and friendly service enhance the overall dining experience. It's clear that the owners are passionate about sharing their Hawaiian roots through food, and this dedication resonates with patrons. If you're in LA and craving a taste of Hawaii, BROKEN MOUTH | Lee's Homestyle should be at the top of your list for a memorable meal.
At a Glance
Pros
- Generous portion sizes that provide great value.
- Authentic Hawaiian flavors with expertly prepared dishes.
- Friendly and welcoming atmosphere from the staff.
Cons
- Limited parking options in the busy area.
- May experience long wait times during peak hours.
What Diners Are Saying
"We’re visiting the city and came across this spot online — so glad we did! The food was amazing, and the portions are huge — definitely worth the price. We ordered the teriyaki chicken plate, which was super flavorful and perfectly seasoned. The owner (we think it was the owner?) was incredibly friendly and even offered us a free drink! 🥤 When my boyfriend picked up our order, we noticed he also included a cute spam seaweed wrap — such a thoughtful touch and totally unexpected. We loved the food so much we wanted to go back the same day, but unfortunately, they close at 6pm 😭 Highly recommend this place if you’re in town — delicious food, great value, and wonderful service. We’ll definitely be back next time we visit!"- 希
"5 stars with over 2,000 reviews? Yeah, Broken Mouth definitely lives up to its rating and hype! *Tips* We read the reviews and followed people’s tips on ordering ahead for take out and thank goodness we did! Highly recommend doing that and also having someone drive with you if possible so that you can just get out of the car and pick it up. Broken Mouth is located Downtown LA so parking is usually a nightmare. Environment: It shares a building with a couple other businesses and there’s communal seating for the whole building. There were some high and low seating. I went on a Saturday afternoon and it wasn’t packed. Service: I came in 10 minutes earlier than my set pick up time and they were still apologetic for it being late haha! The food came out perfectly on time and it was fresh. I met the owner Timothy and he was so nice, welcoming, and personable! Loved seeing him work up front! Food: SPAM MUSUBI ($4.25): very delicious with their yummy purple rice. BEEF ($21.50): their famous Meat Jun. The egg-battered beef slices really melted in your mouth. It was sooo good with the sauce. SHRIMP ($19.50): garlic butter shrimp with shells on. You can choose to peel it off but I opted to eat the shells on because it added to the flavor. Probably the best garlic shrimp I’ve had. I also bought Lee’s Hot Sauce ($1) on the side. I recommend getting this if you like a little spice in your meal. The plate lunches come with purple rice and Mac. The purple rice was a total game changer as it complemented the meat and the shrimp well. The Potato Mac, however, was not my favorite. For me personally, I prefer it without the potatoes but everyone has their own preferences! Overall: One of the best Hawaiian food I’ve had here in California. I wish I lived closer but I would definitely come back again. Remember to order ahead!"- Pauline Steele
"Kinda warehousey hole in the wall eating spot but the food is great! First time having steak layered between what I’m guessing is an egg pancake. Either way very yummy and interesting! Even better I ate it cold the next morning and it was just as delicious which is so impressive."- John Ly
"Broken Mouth is the kind of restaurant you hope to stumble upon but rarely do — a place where bold flavors, heartfelt hospitality, and cultural authenticity converge into an unforgettable dining experience. From the moment you walk in, there’s a warm, inviting energy that sets the tone for the meal. The staff is friendly without being overbearing, genuinely passionate about the food they serve, and eager to guide newcomers through the menu. The food? Absolutely outstanding. Every dish feels like a love letter to Hawaiian and Korean comfort cuisine, with creative twists that elevate without compromising authenticity. The garlic shrimp is a must — perfectly cooked with just the right punch of flavor — and the mac salad is next-level creamy and addicting. Portions are generous, prices are fair, and every bite feels like it was made with intention. What makes Broken Mouth stand out most is its personality. This isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a story, a tribute, a vibe. Whether you’re a local looking for something new or a visitor wanting something truly unique, this place should be at the top of your list. Highly recommend. Just go hungry — and maybe bring a friend so you can sample more of the menu."- Aya Nelson
"This place might be one of my new favorite spots in DTLA. It was super good. I’m literally so full after my entree. I can’t wait to try everything on the menu! Also, I want a cookbook from this Chef!"- Jess Chef
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there parking available?
Parking can be limited; consider arriving early or using nearby public transport.
What is the dress code?
The dress code is casual, perfect for a relaxed dining experience.
What is the best dish to try?
The teriyaki chicken plate is highly recommended for its rich flavor and generous portion.