San Pedro’s Senfuku Japanese Restaurant to Close After 45 Years

Key points

• Senfuku Japanese Restaurant will hold its final service on September 16, 2026, closing after 45 years of operation.
• Owners Helen and Yoshi Kikuchi are closing the business due to retirement, with Yoshi having served customers for the entire 45-year span.
• The restaurant opened in 1974 and relocated to 380 W 6th Street in San Pedro in 1982.
• The final day of service will extend hours until 10 p.m., compared to the usual 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. schedule.
• The establishment is noted for serving sushi rolls, sashimi, combination sets, chicken teriyaki, and beef teriyaki.
• Notable past patrons include writer Charles Bukowski, and the owners described the restaurant as a 'second home' where they built lifelong friendships with customers.

Background

This closure continues a trend of longtime local eateries shutting down in 2026, following the recent exits of O’Charley’s, Ta-Ke Sushi in Los Angeles, and Bayley’s Seafood. While Ta-Ke Sushi closed due to development pressures, Senfuku’s closure is driven by the owners' retirement after nearly half a century of service.

Why it matters

The closure marks the end of a significant cultural and culinary landmark in San Pedro, reflecting the broader trend of veteran family-owned restaurants closing as founders retire. It highlights the loss of community gathering spaces that have served local populations for decades.

What to watch

The restaurant will serve its final customers on September 16, 2026, with extended hours until 10 p.m. Following this date, the location will cease operations, and the owners will fully retire.