You’ve been called a lot of things. And while most we can’t repeat (okay, dollface is fine), it’s safe to say The Lazy Ox isn’t one of them.

That’s reserved for the new neighborhood gastropub now open in Little Tokyo.

With the cozy, dimly lit feel of a restaurant that’s been there awhile, the space has a long bar, rough-sawn wood, giant light bulbs overhead, and an open kitchen where you can see chef Josef Centeno hard at work.

The presentation is rustic and simple; the flavors sophisticated. Share crispy buttermilk quail, brick-roasted mussels, chicken livers with guanciale, or other small plates like cod brandade fritters and yellowtail sashimi with olives and pomegranate seeds.

Order sake, craft beer, and wine by the glass. Because what would all this good food be with nothing to wash it down?

Total bull.

The Lazy Ox Canteen, 241 South San Pedro Street, between East Second and East Third Streets, Little Tokyo (213-626-5299 or lazyoxcanteen.com).

Hurl the holiday spirit with Someecards.com’s clever collection for DailyCandy. The saucy e-cards are the perfect way to let someone know you’re thinking of them, virtually.

Photo: Courtesy of The Lazy Ox Canteen