Izakaya Ichie

For Californians with a discerning taste for Japanese cuisine, especially those who appreciate the lively atmosphere of an Izakaya, Izakaya Ichie in Buena Park presents an intriguing option. An Izakaya, traditionally a Japanese pub serving alcoholic drinks and a variety of small, often shareable dishes, offers a more casual and social dining experience than a typical sushi bar. Izakaya Ichie aims to capture this essence, bringing a blend of traditional Japanese flavors and unique fusion creations to Orange County. Located within a bustling entertainment complex, it strives to be a vibrant spot where locals can gather to enjoy diverse Japanese culinary delights.

In California's dynamic food scene, where culinary fusion and diverse experiences are highly valued, Izakaya Ichie seeks to stand out. It positions itself as a charming Izakaya-style restaurant where "Korean flavors come alive," suggesting a unique blend of Japanese and Korean influences on its menu. This fusion approach, coupled with offerings from fresh sashimi to sizzling yakitori and savory ramen, aims to cater to a broad range of preferences. For residents of Buena Park and surrounding areas, Izakaya Ichie offers an opportunity to explore a multifaceted Japanese gastropub experience, whether for a lively dinner, late-night bites, or a special culinary journey.

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Izakaya Ichie is strategically located at 6920 Beach Blvd K124, Buena Park, CA 90621, USA. This address places it prominently within The Source OC, a well-known, multi-level shopping, dining, and entertainment complex situated on Beach Boulevard in Buena Park, Orange County. Its location within such a large and popular destination significantly contributes to its accessibility for a wide range of customers.

The placement within The Source OC ensures that Izakaya Ichie benefits from ample parking, typically available in the complex's multi-story parking structures, which is a major convenience for those driving. Being on Beach Boulevard, a major thoroughfare, also makes it easy to reach by car from various parts of Buena Park and neighboring cities like Fullerton, Anaheim, and Cerritos. For those utilizing public transportation, bus routes along Beach Boulevard would likely provide access to The Source OC. The restaurant's position within this bustling hub means it's an ideal spot for a meal before or after shopping, catching a movie, or enjoying other entertainment options available within the complex. It is noted to be on the first floor of the complex, making it easily accessible, including wheelchair access.

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Izakaya Ichie offers a broad and diverse menu that reflects its Izakaya and fusion Japanese-Korean concept, catering to a wide range of tastes. Their key services and offerings include:

• Extensive Sushi and Sashimi Selection: Featuring various fresh sushi (nigiri) pieces such as Bluefin Tuna, Salmon, Yellowtail, Toro, Uni, Scallop, and more. Sashimi platters of assorted raw fish are also available.
• Creative Sushi Rolls: A wide array of rolls, including classic options like California Roll and Spicy Tuna Roll, alongside unique creations like Burning Sakura Roll, Flamin Cheetos Roll, and various "NO RICE" rolls, demonstrating a fusion approach.
• Yakitori and Grilled Skewers: Offering assorted grilled skewers, including a "Yakitori Platter Ultimate," with various meats and vegetables cooked over an open flame, a staple of Izakaya dining.
• Hot Plates and Appetizers: A rich selection of hot dishes like Gyoza, Takoyaki, Oyster Tempura, Geso Age (fried squid leg), Shrimp Tempura, Chicken Karaage, Bulgogi Poutine Fries, Okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake), Creamy Crab Croquette, and Baked Dynamite Mussels.
• Noodle Dishes: Including Tonkotsu Ramen (pork & chicken broth), Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen, Nagasaki Champon (seafood soup with noodles), Spicy Oden Champon Soup, and various Udon and Soba dishes such as Mentaiko Cream Udon and Curry Udon.
• Rice Bowls (Donburi): Featuring Chirashi Don (assorted sashimi), Salmon & Masago Don, Korean Bulgogi Yakiniku Don, Unagi Don (eel), and unique options like Uni Scallop Don and Tofo Uni Don.
• Korean Fusion Specialties: Incorporating dishes like Galbi Chop Steak & Noodle, Rose Creamy Tteokbokki (Korean spicy rice cake), Spicy Chicken Stew, and Korean Fried Chicken Wings (Sweet & Spicy, Honey Garlic flavors).
• Desserts: Offering sweet endings to the meal, with dessert being highlighted as a "best dish" by one reviewer.
• Beverage Program: A selection of beer (including Kirin), sake, and possibly flavored soju, enhancing the Izakaya experience.
• Dine-in Service: Providing a "charming Izakaya-style" and "energetic atmosphere" for customers to enjoy their meal.
• Takeout and Delivery: Convenient options for customers to place orders for pickup or delivery through popular platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: The restaurant is designed with accessibility in mind, including wheelchair access.

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Izakaya Ichie, as a Japanese gastropub in Buena Park, offers several notable features and highlights, though some customer experiences can vary:

• Diverse and Extensive Menu: A significant highlight is the wide array of options, from traditional sushi and sashimi to hearty ramen, grilled yakitori, and unique Korean fusion dishes, catering to a broad range of culinary preferences.
• Authentic Izakaya Ambiance: The restaurant aims to provide an "authentic Japanese atmosphere" that is "cozy and vibrant," suitable for social gatherings and casual dates, immersing diners in the gastropub culture.
• Quality of Specific Dishes: The "sushi was good," "bulgogi fries" were "delicious" (though could use more meat), and "dessert was the best dish," indicating strong points within their menu.
• Drink Recommendations: A positive note was the waitress's "drink recommendation" becoming a customer's "new favorite," highlighting attentive service in some instances.
• Located in The Source OC: Its prime location within a major entertainment and dining complex offers convenience, ample parking, and a lively surrounding environment.
• Fusion Approach: The blending of Japanese and Korean flavors provides a unique culinary experience not found in every Japanese restaurant.
• Accessibility: The presence of wheelchair access ensures the restaurant is inclusive for all diners.

However, it is crucial to address the significant concerns raised in one of the provided customer reviews:

• Concerns about Food Freshness/Quality: A major issue raised was that some "fish and meats really smelled," with specific mentions of "Toro" looking "to the point of rot" and "chicken had a sour tasted." This is a severe food safety and quality concern that directly impacts customer trust and health.
• Undercooked Food: The "pork belly that came with the ultimate yakitori was undercooked and some parts raw," which is a serious culinary and safety issue.
• Inconsistent Service: The reviewer noted that service was "lacking," with no check-ins, napkin refills, and chipped glassware, indicating a significant breakdown in attentiveness and basic table service.
• Masking Issues: The mention of "lighting helps mask it" regarding the fish color and "put a piece of ikami on top to hide the brown dead Toro" suggests a deliberate attempt to conceal quality issues, which is highly concerning.

These critical feedback points indicate that while the restaurant has the potential for good dishes and service, there are serious inconsistencies that can drastically impact the customer experience. Future improvements would need to address these issues diligently.

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Specific, ongoing promotions for Izakaya Ichie are not explicitly detailed in the provided customer reviews. However, as a restaurant within a large commercial complex like The Source OC, and given its Izakaya style, it is common for such establishments to participate in various promotions or offer their own deals to attract and retain customers. Potential promotions or special offers might include:

• Happy Hour Specials: Many Izakayas feature happy hour deals on drinks (sake, beer) and small plates/appetizers, encouraging early evening or late-night visits.
• Lunch Specials: Daily or weekly lunch combos on popular dishes like ramen, donburi, or smaller sushi sets.
• The Source OC Mall Promotions: Participation in mall-wide events, discount programs, or seasonal promotions during holidays or peak shopping seasons.
• Online Ordering/Delivery Promotions: Discounts for first-time online orders or special offers through third-party delivery platforms.
• Loyalty Programs: A system to reward frequent diners with points that can be redeemed for discounts or free items.
• Seasonal Menu Additions: Introducing limited-time dishes or unique ingredients to keep the menu fresh and exciting.

To inquire about any current promotions or special offers, it is recommended to contact Izakaya Ichie directly via phone or visit their location within The Source OC. Checking their official website or social media channels, if available, would also be a reliable way to stay informed about any ongoing deals.

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For inquiries, to place an order, or to learn more about Izakaya Ichie, you can use the following contact details:

• Address: 6920 Beach Blvd K124, Buena Park, CA 90621, USA (located on the 1st floor of The Source OC)
• Phone: (714) 752-6355
• Mobile Phone: +1 714-752-6355

Their typical operating hours are Monday-Thursday: 5PM-12AM, Friday: 5PM-2AM, Saturday: 12PM-3PM & 5PM-2AM, and Sunday: 12PM-3PM & 5PM-12AM (based on official site information, confirming earlier lunch hours on weekends). It is always advisable to call ahead to confirm their exact current hours, especially on holidays, or for any specific menu inquiries or large takeout orders, to ensure the most accurate information and a smooth experience.

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For residents of Buena Park and the surrounding Orange County area, Izakaya Ichie aims to offer a distinctive and versatile Japanese dining experience. Its suitability for locals stems from its broad menu, which goes beyond standard sushi and teriyaki to include authentic Izakaya small plates, grilled skewers, ramen, and intriguing Korean fusion dishes. This extensive selection caters to a wide range of preferences, making it a potentially appealing choice for groups with diverse tastes.

The restaurant's location within The Source OC provides significant convenience, offering ample parking and a vibrant setting for a casual night out, a meal before or after entertainment, or a gathering with friends. The intention to provide an "authentic Japanese atmosphere" combined with fusion elements can create a unique cultural and culinary experience. While some customer experiences have varied, highlighting areas for improvement, the positive feedback on specific dishes and service instances indicates the potential for a satisfying meal. For Californians looking for a lively Izakaya experience with a wide array of Japanese and Korean-inspired dishes in a convenient location, Izakaya Ichie offers a compelling option to explore for their next dining adventure.

Izakaya Ichie

6920 Beach Blvd K124, Buena Park, CA 90621, USA