Izumi

For those in Kirkland, Washington, seeking a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine, Izumi stands as a long-established and respected option. Located at 12539 116th Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98034, Izumi offers a traditional Japanese dining experience that has evolved with the times while striving to maintain its culinary roots. While the platform category is "Doctor Near Me," Izumi provides a different kind of essential service: the comfort and satisfaction of a carefully prepared Japanese meal. You can reach them at (425) 821-1959 or via mobile at +1 425-821-1959 for reservations or inquiries.

Izumi has been a fixture in the Kirkland dining scene, with a history that has seen it adapt to changing economic landscapes and customer preferences. It remains a destination for those who appreciate traditional Japanese food, particularly its highly-regarded Beef Teriyaki.

Environment and Ambiance: Traditional and Engaging

Izumi offers an environment that caters to a traditional Japanese dining experience. A notable feature of its setting is the availability of a sushi counter. For those who enjoy the artistry of food preparation, sitting at the counter can be "so much fun watching the chefs preparing the food." This provides an interactive and engaging element to the meal, allowing diners to observe the skill and precision involved in Japanese culinary techniques, particularly for sushi.

While the specific decor isn't extensively detailed, the emphasis on a traditional feel and the presence of a sushi counter suggest an authentic Japanese aesthetic. The atmosphere, while perhaps less bustling than in previous years, remains conducive to a "casual solo lunch or order to go." For long-time patrons, there's a nostalgic connection to the "good old sushi counter dinners several times a week and chatting with regular diners at the counter," indicating a past ambiance of community and regularity that still holds appeal for some.

Service: Courteous and Consistent

The service style at Izumi is described as "still the same old; courteous but not begging for your satisfaction type." This suggests a professional and efficient approach, rooted in decades of consistent practice. The staff, particularly the servers, operate with a tried-and-true method that may not involve extensive "special tailoring or alternation service." Customers are advised that they "will get the look" if they expect deviations from the established service protocols.

While this directness might differ from the highly customizable service found in some modern restaurants, it reflects a traditional approach where the focus is on delivering the established menu items efficiently and respectfully. The upfront communication about charges, such as the $3 per person for green tea, is appreciated by customers, demonstrating transparency. This consistent, albeit perhaps less flexible, service style has been a hallmark of Izumi for years, contributing to its unique character.

Features: Traditional Flavors and Evolving Offerings

Izumi is lauded for its focus on "very good traditional Japanese food." While it is a sushi restaurant, its appeal extends to other classic Japanese dishes.

Beef Teriyaki

A standout feature of Izumi is its Beef Teriyaki, which one customer enthusiastically declared as "so amazing by how great it was." The secret to its success lies in the use of "New York Steak with their freshly made Teriyaki sauce." This commitment to quality ingredients and homemade sauce elevates a seemingly simple dish to something truly exceptional, making it a new "Beef Teriyaki place" for some. The dish is consistently described as "delicious and worth the money."

Supporting Components

Accompanying the main dishes, the "soup, salad and rice were delicious too." This attention to the smaller details enhances the overall dining experience, ensuring that every part of the meal is enjoyable. The availability of hot tea, even with a charge, contributes to the traditional Japanese meal experience.

Sushi and Counter Dining

While specific sushi rolls aren't detailed in the given reviews, the mention of "good old sushi counter dinners" highlights the restaurant's historical strength in sushi. The opportunity to watch chefs prepare food at the counter suggests a focus on fresh ingredients and skilled preparation. For sushi enthusiasts, this remains a significant draw, even if specific items aren't named.

Evolution and Adaptations

It's important for prospective diners to be aware that Izumi, like many establishments, has adapted to "living standards increased even higher" and "to stay afloat and for profit." This has resulted in "Certain things were skipped on the plate/bowl with higher pricing." While these changes are noted, the consensus is that the "Food is still very good." This indicates a continued commitment to quality ingredients and culinary execution despite necessary adjustments.

Promotional Information and Considerations

Izumi's primary "promotion" comes from its long-standing reputation for traditional Japanese food and the enduring quality of dishes like its Beef Teriyaki. The sentiment that the food is "worth the money" reinforces its value proposition, even with adjusted pricing.

For patrons planning a visit, it's advisable to "Look out for their FB updates for irregular closure or special holidays." This suggests that the restaurant may have occasional variations in its operating schedule, and checking their social media for the most current information is recommended.

The restaurant caters well to "casual solo lunch or order to go every once in a while," indicating its suitability for convenient, individual dining. While it may not be the same bustling communal spot for daily sushi counter dinners as it once was, its consistent quality in traditional dishes makes it a reliable choice for those seeking authentic Japanese flavors in Kirkland.

In conclusion, Izumi in Kirkland offers a traditional Japanese dining experience characterized by its excellent Beef Teriyaki made with New York Steak and fresh sauce, delicious accompanying sides, and the engaging experience of a sushi counter. While the service style is consistent and traditional, and there have been adjustments to pricing and presentation, the core quality of the food remains high. It's a cherished spot for those who appreciate authentic Japanese cuisine and seek a casual yet satisfying meal.

Izumi

12539 116th Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98034, USA