OTOTO is a James Beard award-winning sake bar located in the Echo Park neighborhood of Los Angeles. Our food, beverage, and hospitality are deeply rooted in the traditions of Japan and inspired by our local community. With a sake list featuring over 50+ selections by the glass, we aim to showcase the depth, versatility, and just plain deliciousness of this very special beverage, with a strong focus on small, family-run, craft breweries.

THE TEAM

Charles Namba

A childhood spent eating his mom’s homemade Japanese cooking combined with years in French kitchens inspired Charles’ love of cuisine. In his free time he loves eating simple food, done simply.

Courtney Kaplan

Courtney’s career in hospitality began at a yakiniku restaurant in Tokyo many years ago. Although she only intended restaurants to be a stop on the way to “a real job,” she got hooked on the energy and excitement of working with a team, the connection to food and farmers, and of course the incredible culture around sake and wine. And here we are.
Her desert island drink would be a light and refreshing honjozo-style sake, or champagne