At Izakaya Zero in Huntington Beach, chef Takashi Abes new restaurant, sake and beer are offered to accompany the updated Japanese pub-style fare. (Lori Shepler / Los Angeles Times)
The Zero sushi roll at Izakaya Zero in Huntington Beach is shrimp tempura, asparagus and avocado wrapped with seared albacore. (Lori Shepler / Los Angeles Times)
Izakaya Zeros filet mignon cube steak Koro Koro. (Lori Shepler / Los Angeles Times)
Manager/bartender Eric Tabon pours sake at Izakaya Zero restaurant in Huntington Beach, where diners can order unfiltered and premium sakes by the glass or bottle. (Lori Shepler / Los Angeles Times)
Chef Takashi Abe with partners Ted and David Lee have turned the former Red Pearl Kitchen space into Izakaya Zero, a small, lively small-plates restaurant with smart contemporary design and a follow-your-whim menu. (Lori Shepler / Los Angeles Times)
