Binchoyaki

For California residents with a palate for authentic and innovative Japanese cuisine, Binchoyaki in Sacramento offers an experience that truly sets it apart. More than just a restaurant, Binchoyaki is a modern Japanese-style barbecue establishment, specializing in sumiyaki – the art of grilling over binchotan charcoal. This traditional cooking method, with "Bincho" meaning Japanese charcoal and "Yaki" meaning grill, infuses dishes with an unparalleled smoky flavor that defines Japanese soul food. Helmed by acclaimed Chef Craig Takehara, a 2023 James Beard Award Semifinalist for Best Chef in California, Binchoyaki brings the intimate and communal feel of a Japanese home kitchen to Sacramento, where friends and family can gather around and share incredible food.

Binchoyaki's menu is a testament to Chef Takehara's culinary journey and his dedication to both tradition and innovation. While their specialty lies in an extensive array of yakitori skewers – from classic chicken thigh and tender pork belly to adventurous options like chicken tail and knee cartilage – the offerings extend far beyond. Patrons consistently rave about unique and unforgettable small plates such as the "Krispy Rice," "Mochi Bacon," and their signature "Curry Fries," each designed to excite the taste buds with bold and authentic flavors. The presentation of each dish is as thoughtful as its taste, showcasing a commitment to the full dining experience.

The atmosphere at Binchoyaki is designed to be "fun and lively," mirroring the social essence of an izakaya, a Japanese gastropub. Guests can choose to sit at tables or at the counter, where they can watch the skilled chefs at work, grilling meats and vegetables right before their eyes over the 1,000-degree binchotan charcoal. This interactive element, combined with a friendly and efficient staff, creates a memorable and engaging dining experience that has garnered immense loyalty from the Sacramento community. It’s a place that consistently "exceeded all expectations" for even the "toughest critics," making it a must-visit for any local seeking an authentic and exciting Japanese culinary adventure.

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Binchoyaki is conveniently located at 2226 10th St, Sacramento, CA 95818, USA. This address places it in the vibrant Southside Park neighborhood of Sacramento, making it an accessible destination for California residents across the city and surrounding areas. 10th Street is a well-known thoroughfare, facilitating straightforward navigation. It's important to note that both 10th and W Streets, which intersect near the restaurant, are one-way streets, so planning your route accordingly can ensure a smooth arrival.

Parking in the vicinity of Binchoyaki primarily consists of street parking. While street parking can vary depending on the time of day and week, it is generally available in the neighborhood. Given its popularity, especially during dinner hours, arriving a little early might be beneficial to secure a spot. For those preferring public transportation, Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) likely offers bus routes that operate near 10th Street, providing a convenient alternative to driving. The restaurant's location in a lively urban area means it's also easily reachable by ride-sharing services or even by bike. This central positioning within Sacramento's dynamic culinary scene makes Binchoyaki a convenient choice for both a planned culinary adventure and a spontaneous evening out.

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• Dine-in Service: Enjoy a lively and interactive dining experience in their cozy space, with options to sit at tables or at the counter to watch the chefs grill over binchotan charcoal.
• Yakitori & Sumiyaki: Specializes in a wide variety of expertly grilled skewers (yakitori/sumiyaki) cooked over traditional binchotan charcoal, including popular options like pork belly, chicken thigh, and unique cuts like knee cartilage and chicken tail.
• Innovative Small Plates: Offers a selection of highly praised small plates and appetizers such as "Krispy Rice" (spicy tuna), "Mochi Bacon," "Curry Fries," "Gindaco Takoyaki," and "Tokyo Tacos."
• Lunch Service: Features a dedicated lunch menu from Tuesday to Saturday (11 AM to 2 PM, last seating 1:30 PM), offering bento boxes (e.g., Karaage Bento, Tonkatsu Bento, Sashimi Bento), ramen (including Spicy Kokekokko Ramen), donburi, and some sushi options.
• Sushi at Lunch Only: Sushi is primarily served during lunch hours, providing a window to enjoy their highly-rated sushi.
• Ramen & Udon: A selection of comforting ramen and udon bowls, including Buta Moyashi Ramen, Curry Ramen, and Tan Tan Men.
• Rice Dishes: Offers various rice bowls like Gyudon, Curry Rice, and Bacon Fried Rice.
• Extensive Beverage Program: Features a robust selection of Japanese and craft beers (including their own Onibi brews), a wide array of sake (Namazake, Nigori, Junmai Dai Ginjo, Junmai Ginjo, Junmai), shochu, and unique non-alcoholic options like Yuzu Sparkling.
• Takeout Service: Binchoyaki offers a convenient "Binchoyaki To-Go" service for pick-up, allowing patrons to enjoy their favorite dishes at home.
• Delivery Service: Available through popular platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash.

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• Authentic Bincho-tan Charcoal Grill: The core of Binchoyaki's cooking, using high-quality Japanese charcoal for distinct smoky flavors and a unique grilling experience that customers can watch from the counter.
• Exceptional Yakitori Skewers: Consistently praised for their "fire" yakitori, with pork belly, chicken thigh, and mochi bacon being "10/10" favorites.
• Highly Acclaimed Krispy Rice: A signature dish featuring spicy tuna atop perfectly deep-fried sushi rice, lauded for its crispy exterior and soft interior.
• Innovative Japanese Soul Food: Chef Craig Takehara, a James Beard Award Semifinalist, brings a creative yet authentic approach to Japanese cuisine, blending traditional techniques with local ingredients.
• Lively & Interactive Atmosphere: The "fun and lively" environment, especially sitting at the counter, allows guests to engage with the chefs and witness the culinary process firsthand.
• High-Quality Ingredients: A commitment to sourcing fresh, local produce and exceptional ingredients, including sushi that is "some of the best I've ever had."
• Diverse Menu Beyond Skewers: While yakitori is a highlight, the menu offers a wide range of appetizers, ramen, rice bowls, and bento boxes, catering to various tastes.
• Craft Beverage Selection: Features a thoughtful selection of Japanese beers, an extensive sake list, and unique local craft beers (Onibi brews), complementing the food perfectly.

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Binchoyaki, a renowned Japanese izakaya in Sacramento, is known for its high-quality offerings and unique culinary experience, rather than extensive, ongoing promotions. However, they do offer specific services that provide value to patrons. Notably, Binchoyaki has dedicated lunch hours (Tuesday 11 AM - 2 PM, Wednesday-Saturday 11 AM - 1:30 PM for last seating), during which they serve sushi, which is a key highlight as it's not available during dinner service. This makes lunchtime a special opportunity for California locals to enjoy their highly-rated sushi. While older reviews hint at past "Dollar Oyster" specials on Wednesdays, current public information does not confirm this is still an active promotion; it's always best to inquire directly with the restaurant for the most up-to-date offerings.

For those looking for a quick and satisfying meal, Binchoyaki's lunch menu features various bento boxes and ramen options that offer great value. Their extensive beverage menu also includes their own brewed beers (Onibi Rotating Draft, Onibi Ohaguro Rice Lager, Onibi Tengu Ginger Honey Blonde Ale), which can be seen as a unique offering for beer enthusiasts. For the most current details on any rotating specials, seasonal menu additions, or potential happy hour offerings, Sacramento residents are encouraged to check Binchoyaki's official website or contact them directly.

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To experience the unique flavors and lively atmosphere of Binchoyaki, or for any inquiries, you can use the following contact details:

• Address: 2226 10th St, Sacramento, CA 95818, USA
• Phone: (916) 469-9448

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For California residents, particularly those in the Sacramento area, Binchoyaki stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended Japanese dining destination. Its specialization in sumiyaki – charcoal-grilled skewers – offers a unique and authentic culinary experience that sets it apart from typical Japanese restaurants. The consistently "fire" food, with standout dishes like the "Krispy Rice," "Mochi Bacon," and the highly praised pork belly skewers, ensures a delicious and memorable meal every time. The innovative approach of James Beard Award Semifinalist Chef Craig Takehara, combined with his commitment to quality ingredients, guarantees a top-tier dining experience.

Beyond the food, Binchoyaki cultivates a "fun and lively" atmosphere, allowing patrons to sit at the counter and watch the culinary magic unfold, adding an interactive and engaging dimension to their visit. Despite occasional notes on saltiness (which can be subjective to individual preference), the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the exceptional flavors and unique offerings. The availability of sushi during lunch hours and a diverse menu covering everything from ramen to innovative small plates caters to a wide range of tastes and dining occasions. For locals seeking an authentic, high-quality, and exciting Japanese culinary adventure in Sacramento, Binchoyaki is undoubtedly a must-visit, promising an experience that will leave you eager to return.

Binchoyaki

2226 10th St, Sacramento, CA 95818, USA