Ichika Izakaya Introduce
For those in California with a discerning palate for authentic Japanese cuisine, Ichika Izakaya in San Bruno emerges as a truly exceptional destination. This local gem seamlessly blends the lively, communal spirit of a traditional Japanese izakaya with the refined artistry of a top-tier sushi restaurant. It’s a place where every dish tells a story of meticulous preparation and fresh, high-quality ingredients, promising a culinary journey that’s both engaging and delicious.
Ichika Izakaya has quickly become a favored spot for locals seeking a superior dining experience. Whether you’re on the hunt for your new go-to sushi haven or looking to celebrate a special occasion, this restaurant consistently delivers. Their commitment to excellence is evident not only in the diverse and delectable menu but also in the outstanding service that accompanies every meal. From the moment you step through their doors, you’re treated to a welcoming atmosphere where the focus is firmly on your enjoyment.
What truly sets Ichika Izakaya apart for Californians is its ability to offer a comprehensive Japanese dining experience. Beyond the fresh and expertly crafted sushi, diners can explore a wide range of small plates perfect for sharing, alongside a thoughtfully curated selection of sake. This variety, coupled with the consistently praised service and convenient location, makes Ichika Izakaya a standout choice for anyone in the San Bruno area looking for an authentic taste of Japan, delivered with warmth and professionalism.
Strategically positioned at 851 Cherry Ave, San Bruno, CA 94066, USA, Ichika Izakaya boasts a highly convenient and accessible location for residents and visitors throughout the California region. Its spot on Cherry Avenue, a well-trafficked thoroughfare in San Bruno, makes it easy to find and reach, whether you're coming from local neighborhoods or traveling from further parts of the Bay Area.
A significant advantage for diners is the ample parking available. This addresses a common challenge in many popular dining areas, ensuring a stress-free arrival for patrons. The restaurant's easy accessibility from major roads and its clear visibility contribute to its appeal, making it a hassle-free destination for anyone planning a meal. Being situated in a vibrant part of San Bruno also means it's often close to other amenities, allowing for a seamless integration into your day or evening plans. This thoughtful placement truly enhances the overall dining experience at Ichika Izakaya, making it a preferred choice for convenience and ease of access.
Ichika Izakaya offers a comprehensive and authentic Japanese dining experience, specializing in both traditional izakaya fare and expertly prepared sushi. Here's a breakdown of the key services and culinary delights you can expect:
Exquisite Sushi and Sashimi: At the heart of Ichika Izakaya's offerings is its dedication to high-quality sushi and sashimi. Diners can expect a diverse menu featuring meticulously crafted nigiri, maki rolls, and fresh sashimi, prepared with premium, often locally sourced, ingredients.
Omakase Dining Experience: For the ultimate culinary journey, Ichika Izakaya provides an Omakase option. This allows the chef to curate a personalized multi-course meal, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients and the chef's artistic expertise. This is a highly recommended experience for those looking to explore the depths of Japanese culinary art.
Traditional Izakaya Small Plates: Embracing the spirit of an izakaya, the restaurant offers a wide variety of small, shareable plates. This includes classic dishes such as crispy tempura, flavorful gyoza, savory skewers (yakitori), and a range of other cooked and cold appetizers perfect for a communal dining experience.
Wagyu Beef Dishes: For meat aficionados, Ichika Izakaya features high-quality Wagyu beef dishes, prepared to highlight the rich marbling and tender texture of this renowned Japanese delicacy.
Extensive Sake Selection: To perfectly complement their food offerings, Ichika Izakaya boasts a good variety of sake. Their knowledgeable staff can assist in pairing the ideal sake with your chosen dishes, enhancing your overall dining experience.
Dine-In Service: The restaurant provides a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for dine-in guests, suitable for intimate dinners, celebrations, or gatherings with colleagues and friends.
Reservations Recommended: Given its popularity, reservations are recommended, especially for peak dining hours or special occasions, to ensure you secure a table and avoid any wait times.
Exceptional Customer Service: A consistent highlight from customer reviews is the great service. The staff are attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, contributing significantly to a positive and memorable dining experience.
Ichika Izakaya distinguishes itself in the competitive California dining scene through several key features and highlights that enhance the customer experience:
Premium Sushi Quality: A standout feature is the high quality of their sushi and sashimi. Reviewers consistently praise the freshness and expert preparation, making it a top contender for discerning sushi lovers.
Authentic Izakaya Atmosphere: The restaurant successfully captures the essence of a traditional Japanese izakaya, offering a vibrant yet relaxed setting perfect for enjoying small plates and drinks with company.
Exceptional Omakase Experience: The availability of an Omakase menu is a significant highlight, providing a curated and elevated dining adventure led by the chef's expertise and the finest seasonal ingredients.
Diverse Menu with Variety: Beyond sushi, the extensive menu offers a good variety of delicious items, including various small plates, hot entrées, and specialty dishes like Wagyu, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
Curated Sake Selection: The presence of a good variety of sake indicates a thoughtful approach to beverage pairings, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the Japanese culinary tradition.
Outstanding Service: Consistently noted in customer feedback, the great service provided by the attentive and friendly staff significantly enhances the overall dining experience, contributing to a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere.
Convenient Location and Parking: Easy accessibility and ample parking make dining at Ichika Izakaya a stress-free experience, a significant advantage in the busy Bay Area.
Ideal for Various Occasions: Whether it's a casual meal with colleagues, a special birthday celebration, or an intimate dinner, the restaurant's ambiance and offerings are suitable for a range of occasions.
While specific, time-limited promotions for Ichika Izakaya are best confirmed directly with the restaurant, establishments of its caliber, especially those focusing on a premium dining experience, often offer value through their curated menus and special events rather than constant discounts. Here are some typical ways Ichika Izakaya might provide value or special experiences:
Omakase Experience: The Omakase menu itself can be considered a form of special offering. While it comes at a premium price point, it provides an unparalleled culinary journey and value through the chef's expertise and access to the freshest, often unique, ingredients that might not be available à la carte. This bespoke dining experience is a highlight for many.
Seasonal Menus: Given its focus on fresh ingredients, Ichika Izakaya likely features seasonal menu changes or specials. These might include limited-time dishes utilizing seasonal produce or seafood, offering new and exciting flavors to regular patrons.
Sake Tasting Events or Pairings: With its "good variety of sake," the restaurant might occasionally host sake tasting events or offer special sake pairing menus to introduce diners to different sake profiles and how they complement Japanese cuisine.
Special Occasion Packages: As noted by a customer who celebrated a birthday there, Ichika Izakaya is clearly equipped to handle special occasions. While not a discount, they might offer personalized touches or special arrangements for celebrations like birthdays or anniversaries.
Happy Hour (if applicable): Some izakayas offer a happy hour with discounted drinks and small plates. While not explicitly mentioned, it's worth checking if Ichika Izakaya has such offerings for early evening diners.
To inquire about any current or upcoming specials, or to learn more about their Omakase options and reservations for special events, it is highly recommended to contact Ichika Izakaya directly via their phone number. Their friendly staff will be able to provide the most up-to-date information.
For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about Ichika Izakaya's offerings, please use the following contact details:
Address: 851 Cherry Ave, San Bruno, CA 94066, USA
Phone: (650) 636-4450
Mobile Phone: +1 650-636-4450
Given that reservations are recommended, especially for peak dining times, it's always a good idea to call ahead to secure your table and ensure the best possible experience.
For Californians, particularly those residing in the vibrant San Bruno area and surrounding communities, Ichika Izakaya stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for Japanese dining. Its appeal stems from a harmonious blend of authentic culinary artistry, a welcoming atmosphere, and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction.
Locals seeking their "new go-to sushi spot" will find a strong contender in Ichika Izakaya, thanks to its consistent delivery of great quality sushi and sashimi. The option for an Omakase experience elevates it beyond a casual meal, offering a sophisticated and personalized journey through Japanese flavors that is perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging in a high-end culinary adventure. This versatility makes it suitable for both a spontaneous dinner and a meticulously planned celebration.
The restaurant's dedication to the true izakaya spirit, with its diverse array of small, shareable plates, encourages communal dining and a relaxed, social experience. This, combined with a "good variety of sake," provides ample opportunity for exploration and enjoyment, whether you're dining with colleagues or friends. Furthermore, the inclusion of premium options like Wagyu beef caters to a wide range of tastes and elevates the overall menu offering.
Crucially, the consistently praised "great service" ensures that every visit is a pleasant one. Attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable staff contribute significantly to the inviting atmosphere, making diners feel valued and well-cared for. Add to this the convenience of its easy-to-access location and ample parking, and you have a dining destination that effortlessly combines gourmet quality with everyday practicality.
In essence, Ichika Izakaya isn't just another Japanese restaurant; it's a comprehensive dining experience that caters to the local desire for quality, authenticity, convenience, and excellent service. For anyone in California looking to savor genuine Japanese flavors in a delightful setting, Ichika Izakaya is an undeniable top choice.
Ichika Izakaya Menu
All Day - Cold Dish
- Kampachi Carpaccio US$20.00
Sliced amberjack with jalapeños, house sauce.
- Tuna Tataki US$20.00
Sliced tuna with avocado, house sauce.
- Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice (4 Pc) US$18.00
Spicy tuna, avocado on crispy sushi rice cracker.
- Takowasa US$6.50
Chopped raw octopus marinated with wasabi.
- Sunomono Salad US$7.00
Cucumber, wakame seaweed in dashi vinegar.
- Salmon Lover (4Pc) US$22.00
King salmon, Salmon belly , ocean Trout, artic char
- Tuna Lover (4Pc) US$28.00
Bluefin tuna,chutoro, Zuke chutoro, oToro
- Fish Taco (2Pc) US$11.00
Seared Salmon , white fish , avocado , jalapeno , salsa on crispy seaweed chips
All Day - Nigiri or Sashimi (1 Pc per Order)
- Hon Maguro US$6.00
Bluefin tuna, Spain.
- Zuke Chu Toro US$8.00
Medium fatty bluefin tuna, Spain.
- O-Toro US$10.00
Supreme fatty bluefin tuna, Spain.
- King Salmon US$6.00
New Zealand.
- Kurodai US$6.00
Blackhead seabream.
- Iwana US$6.00
Arctic char, Iceland.
- Kampachi US$6.00
Amber jack, Hawaii.
- Amaebi US$10.00
Raw sweet shrimp.
- Ikura US$6.00
Salmon roe.
- Uni US$13.00
Sea urchin, local.
- Hokkaido Uni US$15.00
Sea urchin, Japan.
- A5 Wagyu US$15.00
Japanese beef A5 graded, Japan.
All Day - Fried - Hot Dish
- Fried Oyster (4Pc) US$15.00
Deep-fried oysters.
- Prawn & Crab Tempura US$14.00
Prawn, soft shell crab with egg yolk mentaiko sauce.
- Corn Tempura US$14.50
Vegan. Fried fresh sweet corn seasoned with sea salt.
- Agedashi Tofu US$13.00
Fried tofu in dashi broth, bonito flakes, seaweed, and scallion.
- Chicken Karaage US$15.00
Fried marinated chicken.
- Geso Karaage US$15.00
Fried squid legs.
- Takoyaki (5 Pc) US$13.00
Octopus in flour ball with bonito flake, mayo, and seaweed.
- Scallop Butter Yaki US$23.00
Sauteed Japanese Scallop, asparagus mussroom w butter , soy suce
All Day - Grilled - Hot Dish
- Yaki Ika US$14.50
Grilled whole squid.
- Hamachi Kama US$16.50
Grilled yellowtail collar with salt and pepper.
- Black Cod Miso Yaki US$19.50
Broiled miso marinated black cod.
- Beef Steak US$20.00
Grilled striploin steak with miso butter sauce.
- Beef Short Rib US$17.00
Grilled marinated beef short ribs.
- Kimchi Bacon US$15.50
Stir-fried kimchi, bacon, scallion, and sunny side up egg.
- Shishito Pepper US$10.50
Blistered shishito pepper with bonito flakes on top.
- Lamb Chop (2 Pc) US$18.00
Grilled lamb chop with basil garlic sauce.
- Grilled SEabass US$25.00
butter cooked with asparagus and mushrooms on side
All Day - Omakase (Chef's Choice)
- Omakase Sashimi (8 Pc) US$42.00
Chef's selection of 8 pieces of fresh sashimi, featuring a variety of premium fish.
- Omakase Nigiri (8 Pc) US$53.00
- Deluxe Nigiri (10 Pc) US$75.00
Included uni, A5 wagyu.
- Deluxe Chirashi US$54.00
Assorted premium sashimi over sushi rice with uni, ikura.
All Day - Rice & Noodle
- Unagi Donburi US$24.00
BBQ eel over rice, pickle ginger, and seaweed.
- Tempura Udon US$21.00
Udon noodle soup with assorted veggie, shrimp tempura.
- Creamy Udon US$27.00
Cream-based mentaiko egg yolk sauce udon with clams, bacon, onion, mushroom, scallion, and seaweed.
- Chashu Ramen US$22.00
Roasted Kurobuta pork belly, egg noodle in housemade tonkotsu broth with half boiled egg, corn, and scallion.
All Day - Sushi Roll
- Dragon Roll (8 Pc) US$19.50
BBQ eel, imitation crab meat, fried shrimp, and avocado.
- Rainbow Roll (8 Pc) US$19.50
Imitation crab meat, avocado topped with assorted sashimi.
- Bayhill Roll (8 Pc) US$19.50
Shrimp tempura, spicy tuna topped with seared white fish, jalapeño, and spicy mayo.
- Lion King Roll (8 Pc) US$19.00
Imitation crab meat, avocado topped with baked salmon, spicy mayo, and scallion.
- Cherry Roll (8 Pc) US$19.50
Tuna, avocado, top with seared salmon, spicy mayo, and unagi sauce.
- Giants Roll (6 Pc) US$19.50
Salmon, tuna, whitefish, scallop, avocado, shiso leaves, and ikura.
- Double Toro Roll (8 Pc) US$21.50
Fresh mango, avocado, and salmon belly top with seared fatty tuna and kizami wasabi.
- Veggie Dragon Roll (8 Pc) US$16.50
Vegan. Fried asparagus, avocado topped with fried eggplant.
- Warriors Roll (8pc) US$19.50
Imitation crab, shrimp tempura topped with seared salmon, crunchy onions, unagi sauce and spicy mayo
- Mango Tuna Roll (8Pc) US$19.50
Fresh mango , Tuna, avocado topped tuna , mango , spicy mayo
- Romeo Roll (8Pc) US$19.50
Salmon ,avocado topped with sliced scallop and spicy mayo
- Mango Salmon Roll (8pc) US$19.50
Fresh mango ,salmon,avocado topped with salmon, mango sauce & spicy mayo
- Hot Girl Roll (8Pc) US$19.50
Deep Fried soft shell crab, Avocado topped with spicy tuna,jalapeno & spicy mayo, Unagi sauce
All Day - Sides
- Edamame US$7.00
Steamed soybean.
- Garlic Edamame US$10.50
Sauteed soybean with butter, garlic.
- House Salad US$7.00
Green salad, top with corn in house yuzu mayonnaise dressing.
- Shrimp Tempura (1 Pc) US$3.50
Deep-fried shrimp.
- Miso Soup US$4.00
Tofu, seaweed, and scallion in soybean paste fish broth.
- Fresh Wasabi US$3.00
Kizami wasabi.
- Steam Rice US$3.50
Fluffy and tender steamed rice, a classic accompaniment to any meal.
All Day - Entree
- Chicken Teriyaki US$19.00
Grilled boneless chicken thighs w / teriyaki sauce
- Salmon Teriyaki US$20.00
Grilled Salmon filet w teriyaki sauce
- Beef Teriyaki US$20.00
Grilled striploin beef steak w / teriyaki sauce
- Chicken Katsu US$20.00
Breaded deep fried chicken cutlets
Ichika Izakaya Details
Service options
- Kerbside pickup
- Takeaway
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Comfort food
- Healthy options
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Table service
Amenities
- Toilet
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cosy
- Quiet
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Parking
- Free of charge street parking
- Free parking lot
- Parking
Ichika Izakaya Photos










Ichika Izakaya Location
Ichika Izakaya
851 Cherry Ave, San Bruno, CA 94066, USA
Ichika Izakaya Reviews
I’ve been on the hunt for a new go-to sushi spot since my favorite one in Burlingame closed down (RIP). This is currently top of my list for when I’m in town with colleagues. Great service and ample parking. Easy to get to and plenty of delicious items on the menu. Good variety of sake as well.
March 20 · Caitlin Steinbachreservation recommended! great quality and service. came here for hubby's birthday. he ordered the omakase and I ordered off the menu. would come back again!
April 05 · K YThe food and service were amazing. I arrived at this restaurant about 15 minutes before my friends were here and they were accommodating. My friends ordered dishes from the menu and I had their $128 omakase. They were very generous with the portions. The food was very filling and delicious. The servers were very attentive and our tea pot was always refilled. We ended up packing a couple boxes to go.Whether you're going to try the omakase or order your own main dishes on the menu, you will be walking out with a belly. 👍
September 10 · JFairly good izakaya. The rolls are better than the nigiri. The chicken wings were unflavored. The karrage fried chicken was excellent
February 18 · Yuchen LHad an amazing experience here just like the other location in Brisbane. The menu is bit smaller than the other location but the quality isn't different. The double toro roll was superb along the with loaded chirashi bowl. This location is much closer with a convenient parking lot. Definitely coming back!
August 21 · Michael Kawamoto
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