Izakaya Kichinto

izakaya kichinto menu, izakaya kichinto portland menu

For those of us in Oregon with a craving for truly authentic Japanese cuisine, Izakaya Kichinto is a name that consistently comes up. This beloved establishment in Portland offers more than just a meal; it provides a genuine izakaya experience, bringing the essence of a traditional Japanese pub right here to our vibrant city. Think of an izakaya as the Japanese equivalent of a tapas bar or a casual pub – a place where drinks flow freely, and a wide variety of small, shareable plates are enjoyed in a relaxed and lively atmosphere.

At Izakaya Kichinto, our mission is to transport you to Japan without ever having to hop on a plane. We pride ourselves on serving "real, authentic Japanese food," presented in that true izakaya fashion. This means you'll find an extensive menu designed for sharing, allowing you to explore a diverse range of flavors and textures. From hearty main courses to delicate appetizers, every dish is crafted with care and a commitment to traditional preparation. The atmosphere is consistently described as "nice" and "very relaxed," providing a comfortable backdrop for your culinary adventure. Whether you're a seasoned traveler missing the tastes of Japan or a local looking to discover new favorites, Izakaya Kichinto promises an engaging and delicious experience right here in Portland.

Location and Accessibility

Izakaya Kichinto is conveniently situated at 102 NE Russell St, Portland, OR 97212, USA. This prime location places us in the heart of Northeast Portland, a dynamic and easily accessible part of the city. NE Russell Street is a well-known thoroughfare that connects various vibrant neighborhoods, making Izakaya Kichinto a convenient destination for residents from across Portland and its surrounding areas.

The Northeast Portland area is well-served by public transportation, with several bus lines running close to our location, making it easy to reach us without a car. For those driving, street parking is generally available in the vicinity, though as with many popular Portland neighborhoods, it's always a good idea to allow a little extra time to find a spot, especially during peak dining hours. Our restaurant boasts a welcoming atmosphere with a touch of authentic Japanese bar ambiance. The interior is beautifully decorated, often featuring wooden divisions between tables that provide a sense of privacy without feeling cramped, enhancing the relaxed and intimate dining experience. This thoughtful design, combined with our easily accessible location, makes Izakaya Kichinto a perfect spot for a casual weeknight dinner, a lively weekend outing, or a gathering with friends to explore authentic Japanese flavors.

Services Offered

• Dine-In Service: Enjoy our full authentic Japanese menu in our comfortable and relaxed izakaya setting, complete with a beautifully decorated interior.
• Takeout & Pickup: Conveniently order your favorite dishes for pickup by calling us directly at (971) 255-0169.
• Online Ordering & Delivery: Izakaya Kichinto partners with various popular delivery platforms, including Grubhub, allowing you to enjoy our authentic Japanese cuisine from the comfort of your home.
• Extensive Izakaya-Style Menu: Our menu features a wide array of small, shareable plates ("tapas"), including Edamame, Seaweed Salad, Kimchi, Takoyaki, Chicken Karaage, various Gyozas (Pork & Veggie), Fried Oyster, and more unique items like Jellyfish Ponzu and Agedashi Tofu.
• Sushi & Temaki Options: Enjoy a selection of fresh sushi rolls, including Spicy Tuna, Shrimp Tempura, California, Oregon, and Ultimate Veggie rolls, along with classic Hoso Maki. Temaki (hand rolls) are also a popular choice.
• Ramen & Noodles: We offer a selection of ramen, including Shoyu Ramen and Yuzu Shio Ramen, with house-made noodles. Hot soba options are also available.
• Omusubi: Perfect for a quick bite or light meal, our Omusubi comes with various fillings like Salmon Flakes, Umeboshi, Kombu-Tsukudani, and Negi-Maguro, available during breakfast and lunch times.
• Obanzai (Kyoto Home Cooking): Explore traditional Kyoto home-style dishes like Kimpira Gobo, Shishito Pepper Ohitashi, Wasabi Spinachi, and Nasu Namban, offering a taste of authentic Japanese comfort food.
• Dietary Options: We are committed to catering to various dietary preferences, with clearly marked vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available across our menu.
• Beverage Program: Our menu likely includes a selection of sake, beer, and other beverages to complement the izakaya experience, though specific details are best confirmed on site.

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Japanese Izakaya Experience: Izakaya Kichinto is widely praised for offering "real, authentic Japanese food, served in true izakaya fashion." This means a focus on small, shareable plates (Japanese tapas) alongside main courses, designed to be enjoyed with drinks in a casual, relaxed setting. For locals seeking a genuine taste of Japan without leaving Portland, this is a significant draw.
• Outstanding Food Quality: Customers consistently rave about the food, with reviews highlighting dishes like the "Spicy poke bowl, Okinomi yaki, hot fried tofu and temaki" as all being "great" and "awesome." The overall consensus is that the dishes are "rich in flavor and made with fresh, high-quality ingredients."
• Excellent and Knowledgeable Staff: The service receives high praise, with one reviewer stating, "Waitress did an outstanding job with the information and was quick with the food." This attentiveness and knowledge enhance the dining experience, making guests feel well-cared for.
• Relaxed and Beautiful Atmosphere: The restaurant is noted for its "nice atmosphere" and being "very relaxed." The interior is "beautifully decorated," featuring wooden divisions between tables that provide a sense of privacy and comfort, contributing to a pleasant and inviting dining environment.
• Diverse Menu Beyond Sushi: While offering fresh sushi rolls, Izakaya Kichinto truly shines with its comprehensive izakaya menu. This includes a wide array of "tapas," ramen (with house-made noodles), omusubi, and "Obanzai" (Kyoto home-style dishes), offering a much broader exploration of Japanese cuisine than a typical sushi-focused restaurant.
• Dietary Inclusivity: A significant highlight is Izakaya Kichinto's commitment to offering a wide range of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, making it accessible and enjoyable for guests with various dietary needs.
• Late-Night Hours: As a true izakaya, Kichinto is often open later than many other restaurants, providing a great option for those looking for delicious food and a relaxed atmosphere into the evening.

Promotions or Special Offers

While specific, regularly rotating daily or weekly promotions are not widely publicized for Izakaya Kichinto, the very nature of izakaya dining inherently offers a form of "special offer" through its diverse and shareable menu. The concept of Japanese tapas allows diners to try a wide variety of dishes without committing to a single large entree, which can often be a more cost-effective and exploratory way to dine, particularly when sharing among friends.

It is common for izakayas to feature seasonal specials that highlight fresh ingredients or unique culinary creations. For the most up-to-date information on any potential daily specials, seasonal menu additions, or happy hour offerings (if available), it is always recommended to check their official website, social media channels, or call Izakaya Kichinto directly at (971) 255-0169. While not explicitly stated as promotions, the comprehensive lunch menu with Omusubi and specific ramen options may also present a more value-oriented way to experience their authentic flavors during midday hours.

Contact Information

Ready to immerse yourself in the authentic flavors and relaxed atmosphere of Izakaya Kichinto? Here's how you can connect with us:

Address: 102 NE Russell St, Portland, OR 97212, USA

Phone: (971) 255-0169

Mobile Phone: +1 971-255-0169

We welcome your calls for takeout orders, inquiries about our diverse menu, or for questions regarding our hours and available seating. We look forward to providing you with a memorable Japanese dining experience!

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Izakaya Kichinto stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing dining destination for locals in Oregon, especially those in the Portland area, due to its genuine authenticity, diverse menu, and inviting atmosphere.

Firstly, for Portlanders seeking authentic Japanese cuisine beyond just sushi, Izakaya Kichinto is a revelation. As one customer aptly put it, "If you want food identical to Japan without hopping on a plane, you need to come here." This commitment to "real, authentic Japanese food, served in true izakaya fashion" provides a rare and valuable experience. Locals who appreciate cultural immersion through food will find this particularly appealing, as it offers a glimpse into Japan's vibrant pub culture with its emphasis on shareable plates and diverse offerings like Okinomi yaki, hot fried tofu, and a variety of unique small dishes (Obanzai) alongside well-crafted sushi and ramen.

Secondly, the "nice atmosphere" and "very relaxed" ambiance, combined with a "beautifully decorated" interior and thoughtful wooden table divisions, create a truly comfortable and enjoyable dining environment. This kind of welcoming and unpretentious setting resonates strongly with Portland's community-oriented ethos, making it a perfect spot for casual outings, dates, or gatherings with friends where conversation flows as easily as the food and drinks. The outstanding and knowledgeable staff further enhance this experience, ensuring quick service and helpful information, which is a key factor in a positive dining experience.

Furthermore, Izakaya Kichinto's diverse and comprehensive menu caters to a wide array of preferences and dietary needs. The extensive selection of small plates, ramen, sushi, and unique items ensures there's something for everyone, whether you're a meat-eater, vegetarian, or vegan, with clearly marked options available. This versatility allows locals to return repeatedly and discover new favorites, making each visit a fresh adventure. The ability to "order a few things across the menu to share" aligns perfectly with the communal dining style popular in the region.

Finally, its accessible location in Northeast Portland makes it a convenient choice for many, cementing its status as a reliable and cherished local spot. For Oregonians who value genuine culinary experiences, a relaxed setting, and a menu that goes beyond the ordinary, Izakaya Kichinto offers a slice of Japan that is both authentic and deeply enjoyable, making it a highly recommended establishment for locals.

Izakaya Kichinto

102 NE Russell St, Portland, OR 97212, USA