Taking over the old grocery next to Hide Sushi, Bachi Burger announced it was going to open early last year. After more than a year of battling construction and permitting, the Japanese-inspired Las Vegas burger operation is finally open smack dab in the middle of Sawtelle, already the busiest restaurant block in the city. Though the smoked windows make it look very dark and dreary, inside it's a different story, with an industrial vibe that encourages a casual, convivial vibe.

As for bites, don't skip the oxtail fries, loaded with stewed meat. It's a fantastic (if heavy) starter that preludes the likes of the Ronin Burger, glazed with sweet onions, or the Banh Mi burger, which comes with a sugary dipping sauce of its own. Think of Bachi a bit like a Japanese version of Umami Burger, but more on the maximalist side of things.

Bachi Burger

2030 Sawtelle BlvdLos Angeles, CA 90025

Open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.