Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant

For Californians seeking a distinct dining experience that combines the sizzling excitement of a Japanese steakhouse with the delicate artistry of sushi, Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant in Dana Point offers a long-standing presence in the Orange County culinary scene. Established in 1985, Ichibiri has aimed to provide a versatile dining environment, making it a popular choice for families, special occasions, and those looking for both entertainment and a meal. While primarily known for its teppanyaki grills where chefs cook right before your eyes, it also features a full sushi bar and a comfortable dining room.

Located in the picturesque coastal community of Dana Point, Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant strives to create a memorable experience for its patrons. This article will delve into the various aspects of Ichibiri, from its convenient location and diverse menu, to its featured services and the overall dining atmosphere it aims to provide for locals in California. It's important to approach any dining experience with an open mind, and Ichibiri, with its dual focus on teppanyaki and sushi, offers a unique proposition for those exploring Japanese cuisine in Southern California.

Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant is located at 16 Monarch Bay Plaza, Dana Point, CA 92629, USA. This prime location places it within the Monarch Bay Plaza shopping center, a well-known retail and dining hub situated conveniently between South Laguna and Dana Point in Orange County. The plaza is easily accessible, positioned at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Crown Valley Parkway, two major thoroughfares in the area.

The accessibility of Ichibiri is a notable advantage for both local residents and those visiting the beautiful Orange County coastline. Monarch Bay Plaza offers ample parking, which is typically a significant convenience for diners in this region of California. With easy-access entrances from both Pacific Coast Highway and Crown Valley Parkway, finding and reaching the restaurant is straightforward. This makes Ichibiri an accessible option for a family night out, a celebratory dinner, or a casual meal, fitting seamlessly into the lifestyle of Californians who appreciate convenience alongside their dining choices.

Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant aims to provide a comprehensive dining experience with several key services to cater to its diverse clientele.

• Teppanyaki Dining: A primary attraction, Ichibiri features teppanyaki grills where skilled chefs prepare meals, including steaks, seafood, and vegetables, right in front of the guests. This interactive cooking show is a highlight for many, especially families and groups. Reservations for teppanyaki tables are recommended, though not always required.
• Sushi Bar: For those preferring fresh, raw fish preparations, Ichibiri boasts a full sushi bar. Here, patrons can enjoy a wide array of sushi, sashimi, and specialty rolls, prepared by sushi chefs.
• Full Bar Service: The restaurant is equipped with a full bar, offering a selection of beer (including Japanese brands like Asahi, Sapporo, Kirin), wine (including plum wine), sake (hot, cold, and premium cold options), and cocktails.
• Dine-In Options: Beyond the teppanyaki grills and sushi bar, Ichibiri offers a comfortable general dining room for a more traditional sit-down meal.
• Reservations: While walk-ins are accepted, reservations are recommended, particularly for teppanyaki tables, to ensure seating during peak hours. Patrons can call the restaurant to make a reservation.
• Private Events/Parties: Given its setup, Ichibiri is popular for parties, special occasions, and group gatherings, leveraging the engaging teppanyaki experience.

Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant offers several features designed to enhance the dining experience for its patrons.

• Interactive Teppanyaki Experience: The live cooking show at the teppanyaki grills is a major highlight, providing entertainment alongside the meal. Chefs perform cooking tricks and engage with diners, making it a dynamic experience suitable for families and celebrations.
• Extensive Menu Variety: Ichibiri offers a broad menu that extends beyond just teppanyaki. This includes:
  • Teppanyaki Dishes: Featuring various cuts of steak (including filet mignon), chicken, shrimp, scallops, and combinations thereof.
  • Sushi & Sashimi: A wide selection of nigiri sushi (21 varieties), traditional rolls (e.g., California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, Rainbow Roll), specialty rolls (e.g., Banzai Roll, Capo Beach Roll, Lobster Roll), and sashimi platters.
  • Japanese Entrees: Beyond the grill, they offer dishes like shrimp tempura, chicken/beef teriyaki, New York steak, fresh fish entrees, sukiyaki, katsu (chicken/pork), and various combo dinners.
  • Appetizers & Sides: Including golden-fried soft shell crab, pot stickers, mixed tempura, yakitori, egg rolls, deep-fried chicken wings, and more.
• “Best Filet I’ve Had in a Long Time”: One customer specifically praised the quality of their filet, indicating a focus on well-prepared meats in their steak offerings.
• "Reasonable Prices": Some feedback suggests that the pricing offers good value, particularly for the quality of the teppanyaki and steak.
• Long-Standing Establishment: Having been open since 1985, Ichibiri has a long history of serving the Orange County community, suggesting a foundational presence in the local dining scene.

While specific, regularly rotating promotions are not always consistently advertised across all public platforms, Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant, like many dining establishments, may offer various deals or special packages. To inquire about any current promotions available to Californians, it is recommended to:

• Contact them directly by phone: Calling (949) 661-1544 is the most direct way to ask about any current specials, lunch deals, or holiday promotions.
• Check their official website: Restaurants often announce their latest offers or seasonal menus on their own website.
• Look for local dining guides or online deal platforms: Sometimes, local businesses partner with coupon sites or dining guides to offer discounts.

It's worth noting that some past customer experiences mention unexpected fees, such as a sharing plate fee for children. Therefore, it's always advisable for patrons to clarify any potential additional charges, especially for special requests or shared meals, to ensure a smooth dining experience.

To plan your visit or inquire about the unique dining experience at Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant, you can reach them through the following contact details:

Address: 16 Monarch Bay Plaza, Dana Point, CA 92629, USA

Phone: (949) 661-1544

This phone number provides a direct line for making teppanyaki reservations, asking about menu items, or clarifying any details prior to your visit.

Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant in Dana Point offers a distinct dining option for Californians, especially those in Orange County, seeking an engaging and flavorful meal. Its primary suitability for locals stems from its dual appeal as both a teppanyaki steakhouse and a sushi bar, providing diverse culinary experiences under one roof. For families and groups, the interactive teppanyaki grills deliver not just a meal, but an entertaining show, making it a go-to spot for celebrations and special occasions. The option of high-quality steak, particularly a well-regarded filet, appeals to steak enthusiasts, while the extensive sushi menu caters to those craving fresh Japanese delicacies.

Despite some varied feedback on service, the restaurant's long-standing presence since 1985 suggests a foundational role in the community and a history of satisfying many patrons. Its convenient location within Monarch Bay Plaza, with ample parking, further enhances its appeal as an accessible local dining destination. For Californians who appreciate both the theatricality of a teppanyaki grill and the fresh offerings of a sushi bar, all within a generally reasonable price range, Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant presents a versatile and established choice for a night out.

Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant

16 Monarch Bay Plaza, Dana Point, CA 92629, USA