Izakaya Toki, a fresh izakaya concept from Casper Hospitality Group, is set to take over the former home of Michelin-starred Shibumi at 815 S. Hill St. in Downtown Los Angeles, signaling yet another shakeup on a closely watched stretch of Hill Street as DTLA’s dining scene keeps shifting.
According to What Now Los Angeles, a recent ABC filing lists Izakaya Toki at the address and names Casper Hospitality Group, run by brothers Len and Anthony Hayashi, as the licensee. What Now reports that Len briefly confirmed a new concept is in the works but said that details on the menu, design, and any opening date are still under wraps.
Shibumi's Exit Left A High-Profile Shell
Shibumi closed on July 19, 2025, after nearly a decade at 815 S. Hill St., leaving behind one of downtown’s rare marquee restaurant spaces, the Los Angeles Times reported. The longtime izakaya had earned a Michelin star, which made its address one of the more coveted pieces of restaurant real estate in DTLA.
Hayashis Bring Hot-Pot And Bento Experience
The Hayashi brothers previously opened Guzzu Bento-Ya in downtown and operate Mo-Mo-Paradise hot-pot locations across the region, giving them experience with both quick-service and full-service Japanese formats, as shown on the Mo-Mo-Paradise site. That background could shape whether Izakaya Toki leans into a casual counter setup or a more traditional izakaya feel.
What To Watch For
For now, the ABC filing is the clearest public sign that the project is moving forward, and neither Casper Hospitality nor city permitting records have revealed a timeline. Local reporting indicates the team is still dialing in menu and design specifics, so licensing and permit filings will likely be the first places to show an official opening date.
If Izakaya Toki sticks to the Hayashis’ usual playbook, blending accessible formats with focused Japanese specialties, the Hill Street space could see a broadly approachable Japanese option return. Local permit records and additional reporting will show whether the concept arrives this year.
