Daruma Sushi

For Californians residing in or visiting Berkeley, the search for a reliable, delicious, and welcoming Japanese restaurant is a common pursuit. Amidst the city's diverse culinary landscape, Daruma Sushi stands out as a genuine neighborhood favorite. This local spot offers a comfortable and friendly atmosphere, serving up a wide array of Japanese dishes that go beyond just sushi, ensuring there's something to delight every palate. From classic rolls to satisfying hot entrees, Daruma Sushi provides a culinary experience that aims for authentic flavors and generous portions.

Daruma Sushi has established itself as a go-to for many in the community who appreciate a casual yet authentic Japanese dining experience. It's the kind of place where you can unwind after a long day, enjoy a meal with loved ones, or simply grab some expertly prepared takeout. What makes Daruma Sushi particularly appealing is its commitment to offering a diverse menu that caters to different tastes and occasions. Whether you're a sushi aficionado or prefer other Japanese staples like teriyaki, tempura, or ramen, Daruma Sushi aims to deliver tasty food that keeps locals coming back for more. It's a place that embodies the spirit of a true neighborhood eatery – friendly, accommodating, and focused on delivering a satisfying meal.

Daruma Sushi is conveniently located at 2215 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley, CA 94702, USA. Situated on San Pablo Avenue, a significant thoroughfare in Berkeley, the restaurant is easily accessible for residents and those commuting through the area. This location places it within a vibrant neighborhood, with other local businesses and residential areas nearby.

For those traveling by public transportation, San Pablo Avenue is well-served by AC Transit bus lines, with several stops within easy walking distance of the restaurant. While not directly next to a BART station, it's a relatively short bus ride or a moderate walk from the North Berkeley or Ashby BART stations, connecting it to the broader Bay Area public transit network. If you're driving, street parking might be available in the vicinity, though it's always advisable to check local parking regulations. The neighborhood setting contributes to its appeal as a local, convenient dining spot for everyday meals. Its accessible location ensures that whether you're coming from work, home, or exploring Berkeley, Daruma Sushi is a straightforward destination.

Daruma Sushi offers a comprehensive menu of Japanese favorites, ensuring a diverse range of choices for its customers. While sushi is a prominent feature, the restaurant extends its culinary offerings to various cooked dishes and other traditional Japanese fare.

• Sushi and Sashimi: A wide selection of fresh nigiri sushi (fish over rice) and sashimi (sliced raw fish), featuring popular choices like Tuna (Maguro), Salmon (Sake), Yellowtail (Hamachi), and Eel (Unagi).
• Maki Rolls (Standard and Special): An extensive list of sushi rolls, including classic options like California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, and Philadelphia Roll. They also offer a variety of "Daruma Special Rolls" with unique combinations and ingredients, such as the 49ers Roll (crab meat, avocado topped with salmon and sliced lemon) and Dragon Roll (tempura shrimp, cucumber topped with crabmeat, unagi, and avocado).
• Baked and Deep-Fried Special Rolls: For those who prefer cooked rolls, options like the "Lion King" and "Godzilla Roll" are available, offering rich flavors and different textures.
• Appetizers: A selection of starters including Gyoza (pan-fried dumplings), Chicken Karaage (Japanese fried chicken), Takoyaki (octopus dumplings), Edamame, and various tempura options (shrimp and vegetables).
• Entrees from the Kitchen: Beyond sushi, Daruma Sushi serves substantial cooked dishes such as:
  • Teriyaki Plates: Chicken, Beef, and Salmon Teriyaki, often served with rice and salad.
  • Katsu: Breaded and deep-fried cutlets of Chicken Katsu or Tonkatsu (pork).
  • Yaki Udon/Soba/Meshi: Pan-fried noodles or rice dishes with choice of meat and mixed vegetables.
  • Donburi (Rice Bowls): Various toppings like Chicken Teriyaki, Beef Teriyaki, Chicken Katsu, and Chirashi (assorted sashimi) served over steamed rice.
• Noodle Soups: Hearty hot noodle soups, often featuring Udon (thick wheat noodles) or Soba (thin buckwheat noodles), with different meat or vegetable options.
• Salads: Fresh salads including Green Salad with house dressing, Seaweed Salad, and Spicy Tuna Salad.
• Bento Boxes: Convenient combination meals, often available for both lunch and dinner, typically including a main entree, rice, salad, and sides.
• Desserts: Simple sweet treats like Mochi Ice Cream and Cheesecake.
• Beverages: A selection of soft drinks, Japanese teas, and occasionally beer/sake.
• Takeout and Online Ordering: Daruma Sushi offers convenient takeout services, and customers can place orders online through various platforms.

Daruma Sushi has several key features that contribute to its appeal as a local Japanese dining spot, creating a consistent experience for its patrons.

• Diverse Menu Beyond Sushi: While "Sushi" is in the name, a significant highlight is the extensive range of non-sushi dishes, including hot entrees, noodles, and rice bowls. This caters to a wider audience and ensures variety for repeat visits.
• Generous Portions: Customers frequently praise the generous portion sizes across many dishes, from sushi rolls to main entrees, offering good value for money.
• Delicious and Flavorful Food: Many reviews commend the taste and quality of the food, noting that everything ordered is consistently tasty and satisfying. Specific mentions often include the rich flavors of their cooked dishes and the freshness of the sushi.
• Friendly and Accommodating Staff: A strong highlight for Daruma Sushi is its customer service. The staff is often described as very friendly, accommodating, and welcoming, making diners feel comfortable and well-cared for, especially for groups.
• Neighborhood Vibe: It's widely considered a "great neighborhood Japanese restaurant," offering a cozy and familiar atmosphere that locals appreciate for casual dining.
• Happy Hour Value: The happy hour menu is a significant draw, often cited as offering "great value" on various dishes, making it an attractive option for early evening diners.
• Variety of Special Rolls: The "Daruma Special Rolls" section of the menu provides creative and unique sushi options for those looking to explore beyond the traditional.

Daruma Sushi is known for its value-oriented offerings, particularly their happy hour menu, which is a significant draw for locals.

• Happy Hour: One of the most frequently praised promotions is their happy hour. While specific timings and items may vary, customers have consistently found it to be an excellent value, allowing them to enjoy a range of delicious dishes at discounted prices. It's often recommended to arrive a few minutes before happy hour ends to take full advantage of the deals, as the staff is generally accommodating in honoring it.
• Lunch Specials: Many Japanese restaurants offer lunch specials or bento box deals, which can provide a comprehensive meal at a favorable price. While not explicitly detailed in the provided reviews, it's common for establishments like Daruma Sushi to have such offerings to attract weekday lunch crowds. Customers mention lunch menu options offering "good choices at affordable prices."
• Takeout Options: While not a "promotion" in the traditional sense, the availability of comprehensive takeout services, including online ordering, adds significant value for locals looking for convenient meals, especially during busy times.

For the most current information on happy hour times, specific discounts, or any other ongoing promotions, it is always best to check Daruma Sushi's official website or their listings on popular food delivery platforms like Uber Eats or Grubhub. These platforms often display the most up-to-date menus and special offers.

To experience the welcoming atmosphere and delicious Japanese cuisine at Daruma Sushi, here's how you can get in touch:

Address: 2215 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley, CA 94702, USA

Phone: (510) 529-1643

Mobile Phone: +1 510-529-1643

Hours of Operation: (Based on typical Japanese restaurant hours in the area, please confirm directly with the restaurant or online platforms as hours can vary)

• Lunch Hours: Typically Monday - Friday, afternoon.
• Dinner Hours: Typically Monday - Sunday, evening.

It is highly recommended to call ahead for reservations, especially for larger groups or on busy evenings, as seating can be limited, with tables best suited for smaller parties (e.g., 4-5 people). For takeout orders, calling directly or using online ordering platforms is advised.

For Californians in Berkeley, Daruma Sushi fits perfectly into the local dining scene, offering a genuine neighborhood Japanese restaurant experience. Its appeal lies in its friendly and accommodating atmosphere, making it a comfortable spot for casual meals with family and friends. The diverse menu, which extends well beyond just sushi to include delicious hot dishes, noodles, and rice bowls, ensures that there’s always something to satisfy different cravings and dietary preferences. This variety is particularly appealing to locals who appreciate having multiple options from a single establishment.

Furthermore, the generous portion sizes offer excellent value, a factor highly appreciated by budget-conscious diners and those looking for a fulfilling meal. The noted happy hour provides an added incentive for early diners seeking quality Japanese food at a great price. While some patrons have noted occasional inconsistencies with service speed for takeout, the overall consensus for dine-in experiences highlights attentive and welcoming staff, contributing to a positive and enjoyable visit. Daruma Sushi's commitment to tasty food and a friendly environment makes it a reliable and cherished spot for Berkeley residents seeking a no-fuss, authentic Japanese meal in their own backyard. It's a true community eatery where you can count on good food and a warm reception.

Daruma Sushi

2215 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley, CA 94702, USA