Izakaya Ittoku

For those residing in or visiting Massachusetts who appreciate truly authentic and high-quality Japanese cuisine, Izakaya Ittoku in Cambridge stands as a testament to culinary excellence. More than just a restaurant, it's an experience that transports diners to the vibrant and flavorful world of a traditional Japanese izakaya. Known for consistently delivering on both taste and value, Izakaya Ittoku has cultivated a loyal following among locals who seek out its diverse menu, exceptional freshness, and welcoming atmosphere.

Having recently undergone a significant update in 2025 by moving to a new, refined location within the same building, Izakaya Ittoku has reportedly elevated its food quality even further, despite a more streamlined menu. This move signifies a commitment to perfecting their craft and focusing on their most beloved dishes. An izakaya, by definition, is a casual Japanese bar that serves alcoholic drinks and snacks, akin to a tapas bar, encouraging shared plates and a relaxed social environment. Izakaya Ittoku fully embraces this ethos, making it an ideal spot for friends and family to gather and explore a wide array of Japanese flavors, from impeccably fresh sushi and sashimi to comforting hot dishes and unique grilled items. It's a place where every dish aims to be a hit, reflecting a dedication to authenticity and customer satisfaction that resonates deeply with the discerning palates of Massachusetts residents.

Izakaya Ittoku is conveniently located at 1815 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02140, USA. This address places it squarely in a bustling and well-connected part of Cambridge, a vibrant city within Massachusetts that is easily accessible from various surrounding towns and neighborhoods.

The restaurant's location within the Lesley University building (specifically, the Porter Campus) contributes to its accessibility and familiarity for many locals. While it might be tucked away somewhat, it is part of a well-known area.

For those relying on public transportation, Izakaya Ittoku is highly accessible:

• MBTA Red Line: The restaurant is within a short walking distance of the Porter Square MBTA station, which is on the Red Line. This makes it incredibly convenient for patrons coming from other parts of Cambridge, Somerville, Boston, and even beyond, reducing the need for driving.
• Bus Routes: Numerous MBTA bus routes operate along Massachusetts Avenue, providing direct access to the area surrounding the restaurant from various directions.

For those driving, parking in Cambridge can sometimes be a concern, but Izakaya Ittoku offers some advantages:

• Discount Parking: A notable highlight mentioned by a customer is that Izakaya Ittoku offers "discount parking." This is typically a significant benefit in urban areas like Cambridge. It's assumed this applies to a parking space behind the building, specifically at the Lesley University Porter Campus.
• Nearby Parking Lots: There is also a parking lot at a plaza a short walk away (approximately 2 minutes) that, while technically having a 2-hour time limit for plaza customers, may offer additional parking options, albeit "at your own risk" as one reviewer humorously noted. This suggests that while direct on-site parking might be limited, there are feasible alternatives nearby.

The combination of excellent public transport access and available parking solutions makes Izakaya Ittoku a convenient and practical choice for locals across Massachusetts to visit, whether for a quick meal or a more leisurely dining experience.

Izakaya Ittoku offers a comprehensive menu that goes beyond typical sushi restaurant fare, truly embodying the spirit of an authentic Japanese izakaya. Their offerings are designed for sharing and savoring, providing a wide range of tastes and textures.

• Fresh Sushi & Sashimi: Patrons consistently praise the "extremely fresh" sushi and sashimi, with rice that is "well-seasoned." They offer various sushi rolls, nigiri, and sashimi, ensuring quality and authenticity in their raw fish selections.
• Okonomiyaki (Japanese Savory Pancake): A definite must-order item highlighted by reviewers is their okonomiyaki. This savory pancake, often filled with pork, vegetables, and noodles, is a signature dish that many customers rave about for its flavor and authenticity. Different variations, like Osaka-style or Spicy Chicken & Cheese, are available.
• Teppan Hot Plate Dishes: The menu features a variety of items prepared on a teppan hot plate, including Omusoba (yakisoba noodles wrapped in an omelette), Ebi Mayo (shrimp with sweet mayo sauce), and various stir-fried options.
• Robata Grill Skewers (Yakitori & More): A staple of any good izakaya, Izakaya Ittoku offers a selection of grilled items from their robata grill. This includes popular yakitori (chicken skewers like chicken thigh, skin, heart, gizzard) as well as grilled vegetables (e.g., grilled whole eggplant, corn) and other grilled meats (e.g., beef skirt, sirloin steak, grilled mackerel).
• Appetizers & Small Plates: A wide array of traditional Japanese appetizers perfect for sharing. These include classic items like Edamame, Takoyaki (fried octopus balls), Agedashi Tofu (fried tofu in dashi broth), Kara-Age (Japanese fried chicken), and more unique offerings like Ankimo (steamed monkfish liver) and Nama Harumaki (salmon with wasabi-flavored avocado salad wrapped in rice paper). Their fried appetizers and curry dishes also receive high praise.
• Curry & Donburi (Rice Bowls): For heartier meals, they offer delicious Japanese curry dishes, including Katsu Curry (fried pork tenderloin cutlet with curry over rice), and various donburi (rice bowls) like Steak Don (sirloin steak with garlic butter sauce over rice) and Hire-Katsu Don (fried pork tenderloin over rice).
• Ramen & Udon: A selection of comforting noodle dishes, including Izakaya Ittoku's own style of Shoyu Ramen and various Udon noodle options, including a notable Kimchi Chicken Udon and even a cold Hiroshima Tsukemen.
• Desserts: While one beloved item (Matcha Pudding) was noted as missing, their desserts are generally well-regarded, providing a sweet finish to the meal.
• Dine-In & Takeout/Delivery: As a full-service restaurant, they offer a comfortable dine-in experience. Many of their menu items are also available for takeout and delivery, providing flexibility for customers to enjoy their authentic Japanese food at home.

Izakaya Ittoku stands out in the Massachusetts dining scene due to a range of compelling features and highlights that consistently impress its patrons.

• Elevated Food Quality (Post-2025 Move): A significant highlight is the noticeable elevation in food quality since their move to a new location in 2025. Despite a slightly streamlined menu, customers report that "every dish a hit," signifying a focus on perfecting their core offerings. This commitment to quality ensures a consistently excellent dining experience.
• Authentic and Diverse Izakaya Menu: Unlike many Japanese restaurants that may primarily focus on sushi, Izakaya Ittoku truly embraces the izakaya concept, offering a broad and authentic array of dishes. This includes not only fresh sushi and sashimi but also highly praised okonomiyaki, various robata grilled skewers (yakitori), delicious Japanese curries, ramen, and unique appetizers rarely found elsewhere in Massachusetts, such as Ankimo (monkfish liver) and mentaiko-flavored squid. This diversity caters to a wide range of preferences and encourages exploration of Japanese cuisine beyond the familiar.
• Must-Order Okonomiyaki: Their okonomiyaki is consistently singled out as a "must-order item." While the Hokkaido variation is missed by some, the overall quality and flavor of their okonomiyaki remain a significant draw, often ordered with tofu. This signature dish showcases their culinary prowess.
• Exceptional Sushi and Sashimi Freshness: Despite the broad menu, the sushi and sashimi maintain "extremely fresh" quality, with "well-seasoned" rice, indicating meticulous attention to the fundamentals of Japanese raw fish preparation.
• Warm and Attentive Service: Numerous reviews commend the "warm and attentive" service. The presence of what appears to be the owner, who "warmly greets the guests," adds a personal touch that enhances the dining experience and makes customers feel valued.
• Good Value: Patrons often note that Izakaya Ittoku continues to deliver on "value," meaning customers feel they receive excellent quality and experience for the price, which is a key factor for local diners.
• Appetizer Prowess: Their fried appetizers, including Karaage (Japanese fried chicken) and Agedashi Tofu, are frequently praised, indicating strong execution across their small plate offerings. The curry is also highlighted as being particularly good.

While specific, constantly rotating daily or weekly promotions are not always explicitly detailed in general public reviews for Izakaya Ittoku, patrons in Massachusetts can often benefit from certain advantages and potential offers common to well-regarded local establishments:

• Discount Parking: As mentioned, the availability of "discount parking" is a significant perk, especially in a busy urban area like Cambridge. This effectively reduces the overall cost of dining, making it more appealing for those driving to the restaurant.
• Lunch Specials: Many Japanese restaurants, especially those offering a diverse menu like Izakaya Ittoku, feature special lunch sets or bento box deals. These typically provide a combination of popular dishes at a more economical price, ideal for midday dining. While not explicitly confirmed by reviews, it's a common practice to inquire about.
• Seasonal & Chef's Specials: Given their focus on fresh ingredients and continuous elevation of food quality, Izakaya Ittoku likely introduces seasonal dishes or chef's specials that highlight fresh produce or unique preparations. These limited-time offerings provide new reasons for repeat visits.
• Takeout/Delivery Deals: For convenience, it's common for restaurants that offer takeout and delivery to have occasional promotions for online orders, such as discounts on first orders, free delivery over a certain amount, or specific combo deals. Customers can check their online ordering platforms (like DoorDash or Caviar, as indicated by search results) for any such offers.
• Loyalty/Customer Appreciation: While not formalized as a loyalty program, the "warm and attentive" service and apparent owner presence suggest a strong focus on customer satisfaction. Regular patrons might find themselves recognized and appreciated, fostering a sense of community that acts as an informal "perk."

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on any current promotions, it is always recommended for locals to:

• Check their Official Website: If available, the restaurant's official website is the best source for current promotions and menu updates.
• Inquire Directly: Call Izakaya Ittoku at (617) 608-3630 during their operating hours.
• Visit In-Person: Look for any specials or announcements displayed at the restaurant entrance or within the menu.

To experience the authentic Japanese flavors and warm hospitality of Izakaya Ittoku, or for any inquiries, here is their contact information:

• Address: 1815 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02140, USA
• Phone: (617) 608-3630
• Mobile Phone: +1 617-608-3630 (This number appears to be identical to the main phone number provided).

For the most current operating hours, to make a reservation (if applicable), or to inquire about specific menu items or parking arrangements, calling ahead is always recommended. Their presence on online ordering platforms like DoorDash and Caviar also indicates options for convenient delivery or pickup.

For residents of Massachusetts, particularly those in the vibrant Cambridge area, Izakaya Ittoku stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended Japanese dining destination. Its appeal stems from a harmonious blend of authentic cuisine, elevated quality, and a consistently positive dining environment that caters directly to what locals seek in their culinary experiences.

The most compelling reason for its suitability is its unwavering commitment to flavor and value. Patrons consistently praise the elevated food quality, especially after its 2025 move, noting that "every dish a hit." This means that whether you're craving fresh, "extremely fresh" sushi and sashimi with well-seasoned rice, or seeking the comforting and complex flavors of their "must-order" okonomiyaki, you can expect a consistently excellent culinary execution. This reliability in quality, combined with its noted "value," makes it an economically sensible choice for regular dining or a special treat, a crucial factor for families and individuals alike in the Massachusetts region.

Furthermore, Izakaya Ittoku truly embraces the concept of an authentic Japanese izakaya, offering a diverse menu that extends far beyond just sushi. The availability of a wide range of grilled items from the robata, various hot plate dishes, Japanese curries, and unique appetizers like Ankimo (monkfish liver), which are "rarely found in other Japanese restaurants in MA," provides an enriching and educational culinary journey. This broad selection ensures that there's always something new and exciting to explore, satisfying diverse palates and keeping the dining experience fresh for repeat customers. It caters to those who appreciate a full spectrum of Japanese flavors, not just a subset.

The warm and attentive service, often highlighted by the welcoming presence of what appears to be the owner, creates an inviting atmosphere that makes diners feel valued and appreciated. This personal touch enhances the overall experience, fostering a sense of community and making the restaurant feel like a true local gem. Combined with convenient accessibility via public transport and the bonus of discount parking, Izakaya Ittoku removes common urban dining stresses, making it easy for locals to visit.

In essence, Izakaya Ittoku is not just a Japanese restaurant; it's a culinary haven that consistently delivers on its promise of delicious, authentic food in a welcoming setting. It's a place where quality is paramount, variety is celebrated, and the dining experience is consistently positive, making it an ideal choice for any Massachusetts resident looking to savor the true tastes of Japan right in their backyard. "Just go!" as one satisfied customer advises, encapsulating the enthusiasm for this local favorite.

Izakaya Ittoku

1815 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02140, USA