Shirubē

For Californians with a deep appreciation for truly exceptional Japanese cuisine, a delightful discovery awaits in Santa Monica: Shirubē. This isn't just another Japanese restaurant; it's a "true hidden gem," an authentic Izakaya that promises an array of flavors and a dining experience that leaves a lasting impression. From the moment you step through its doors, Shirubē invites you into a world where every dish is a testament to quality, creativity, and culinary artistry.

Shirubē, meaning "broth by the sea" (or "juice of the sea"), is the first U.S. location of a renowned family-run chain that originated in Tokyo in 1968. Founded by Takashi Uno, affectionately known as the "Godfather of Izakaya," the restaurant carries a legacy of transforming the traditional Japanese tavern into a vibrant, culturally rich dining experience. Now, his sons, Kodai and Yudai Uno, bring this beloved concept to the West Coast, ensuring that the essence of a genuine Tokyo izakaya flourishes right here in Santa Monica.

What sets Shirubē apart is its dedication to using the highest quality ingredients, many of which are fresh vegetables sourced from Southern California farmers' markets, alongside incredibly fresh fish that customers describe as "unbelievably fresh." This commitment to freshness, combined with a menu that skillfully juggles traditional Japanese dishes with unique, innovative touches, creates a dining adventure unlike any other. Patrons consistently express being "in awe of this restaurant," highlighting the rich "array of flavors" in every bite.

If you're a California local seeking a memorable Japanese meal that transcends the ordinary, offering both familiar comforts and exciting new discoveries, Shirubē in Santa Monica is a must-visit. It's a place where you can share dishes, explore unique flavors, and truly savor the art of Japanese culinary excellence.

Shirubē is conveniently located at 424 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401, USA. This prime location places it on a bustling stretch of Wilshire Boulevard, a major artery that runs through the heart of Santa Monica. Its accessibility is a significant advantage for diners across the California region, making it an ideal destination for an evening out.

For those driving, street parking is often available in the vicinity, though, like much of Santa Monica, it's wise to consider peak hours. Its position near 5th Street and Wilshire Boulevard provides clear landmarks, situated conveniently close to the iconic Santa Monica Pier and the vibrant Third Street Promenade. This means it’s a great spot to enjoy a fantastic meal before or after exploring the city’s many attractions.

Public transportation in Santa Monica also offers excellent access to Shirubē. Numerous bus lines operate along Wilshire Boulevard, making it a straightforward journey for patrons utilizing the city’s transit network. For those coming from further afield in Los Angeles County, its central location ensures it's a manageable and desirable destination. The restaurant's inviting presence on this main thoroughfare makes it easy to spot and ensures a seamless arrival for all guests.

Shirubē offers a comprehensive and authentic Izakaya dining experience, focusing on shared plates, exceptional quality, and diverse flavors. Here's a breakdown of their primary services:

• Dine-In Service: Enjoy the vibrant and inviting atmosphere of Shirubē's dining room. The casual yet elegant setting is perfect for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings, offering a taste of a true Tokyo izakaya experience.

• Izakaya-Style Dining: The menu is designed around the izakaya concept, featuring a variety of small plates meant for sharing. This allows diners to "taste as many different foods as possible," as highlighted by appreciative customers, and embark on a "delightful adventure" through unique dishes.

• Exceptional Fresh Fish and Sashimi: Shirubē is renowned for its "incredibly, almost unbelievably, fresh" fish. Their sashimi plates are a particular highlight, often praised for their premium quality. Signature dishes include Sashimi Mori and Aburi Shime Saba (flame-seared mackerel).

• Unique and Creative Dishes: Beyond traditional offerings, Shirubē excels in unique culinary creations. Menu highlights include the "super tasty Wagyu Udon," "outrageous Corn Ribs" with shoyu butter, "divine" Jidori Karaage (Japanese fried chicken), and innovative appetizers like Negitoro (tuna, avocado, nori wasabi, tobiko with garlic bread) and Ebi Chili Mayo (spicy prawn tempura with sous vide egg).

• Extensive Drink Selection: As a true izakaya, Shirubē offers a wide array of beverages to complement the food, including Sapporo Premium Draft, various hot and cold sakes, Japanese whiskey, cocktails like the YuzuRita, and wines.

• Happy Hour Specials: Shirubē offers enticing happy hour specials, including both early and late-night options, making it "easy to enjoy their culinary delights at any time." This is a significant draw for many patrons.

• Reservations Recommended: Given its popularity and the intimate dining experience, making a reservation, especially for dinner, is highly recommended to ensure you secure a table. Reservations can typically be made via platforms like OpenTable.

Shirubē stands out in the Santa Monica dining scene due to its distinctive features and highlights that consistently impress both new and returning patrons:

• Unparalleled Food Quality: Customers consistently describe the food as "the best and most delicious food of my life" and "fantastic." The emphasis on "highest quality ingredients" and the incredible freshness of the fish are frequently highlighted.

• Authentic Tokyo Izakaya Experience: As the first U.S. location of a celebrated Tokyo chain, Shirubē brings a genuine izakaya ambiance and culinary philosophy to Santa Monica. This offers Californians a rare taste of Japan without leaving the country.

• Innovative and Unique Menu: The menu goes beyond standard Japanese fare, offering "an array of unique dishes, some of which we'd never even encountered before." Signature items like Wagyu Udon, Corn Ribs with shoyu butter, and flame-seared mackerel showcase their creative culinary approach.

• "Every Bite an Array of Flavors": Diners are particularly impressed by the depth and complexity of flavors in each dish, noting that "every bite and every different dish has an array of flavors," which creates a truly exciting and memorable dining experience.

• Excellent Happy Hour: The availability of both early and late-night happy hour specials is a major highlight, making it "a must-visit" for those looking to enjoy Shirubē's exquisite food and drinks at a great value.

• Impeccable and Friendly Service: The staff at Shirubē receives consistent praise for being "friendly, attentive, and clearly passionate about what they do." This high level of service significantly enhances the overall dining experience, making guests feel welcomed and valued.

• Shared Dining Concept: The izakaya format encourages sharing multiple small plates, allowing diners to "taste as many different foods as possible" and enjoy a diverse culinary journey with their companions.

Shirubē is well-regarded for its attractive special offers, particularly its highly praised happy hour, which makes their exceptional Japanese cuisine even more accessible for California locals. Here are the key promotions to note:

• Happy Hour: Shirubē offers comprehensive happy hour specials designed to cater to various schedules. These include:

  • Early Happy Hour: Available Monday through Friday from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM.

  • Weekend Happy Hour: Offered on Saturdays and Sundays from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

  • Late-Night Happy Hour: On Fridays and Saturdays, you can enjoy specials from 9:00 PM to 10:30 PM.

  During happy hour, patrons can expect discounts on various beverages, including $5 Sapporo Premium Draft, affordable sake options, and $8 Japanese-style "Whiskey" Cokes. The food menu also features moderately discounted items, such as $5 Edamame, $5 Kakuni Taco, $6 Corn Ribs, and $7 Negitoro, among others, making it an excellent opportunity to sample their signature dishes at a reduced price.

Given the popularity of their happy hour, it's a fantastic opportunity for Californians to experience Shirubē's acclaimed food and drinks. For the most up-to-date information on specials and to view their full happy hour menu, it’s always best to check their official website or call them directly. These ongoing promotions highlight Shirubē's commitment to providing both quality and value to its community.

To experience the exquisite Japanese cuisine and exceptional service at Shirubē in Santa Monica, California, you can reach them through the following contact details:

Address: 424 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401, USA

Phone: (310) 393-2533

Mobile Phone: +1 310-393-2533

Making a reservation is highly recommended, especially for dinner and during peak hours, to ensure seating at this popular spot. You can typically book a table through online reservation platforms like OpenTable. For inquiries about their menu, catering options, or any special requests, do not hesitate to contact them directly by phone. Their friendly staff will be delighted to assist you.

For California residents, particularly those in the Santa Monica and wider Los Angeles area, Shirubē offers a Japanese dining experience that is not only suitable but truly exceptional, making it a must-add to your local culinary map. It stands out for several compelling reasons that align perfectly with what locals seek in their dining choices.

Firstly, Shirubē delivers an unparalleled standard of food quality. With glowing reviews consistently praising the "best and most delicious food," "incredibly, almost unbelievably, fresh" fish, and dishes where "every bite and every different dish has an array of flavors," it promises a gourmet experience without pretension. This commitment to superior ingredients and masterful preparation makes it a reliable choice for discerning palates.

Secondly, its identity as an authentic Tokyo Izakaya brings a unique cultural and culinary dimension. Unlike more specialized Japanese restaurants, Shirubē’s izakaya style encourages sharing a diverse range of small, expertly prepared plates. This allows locals to explore a wide "array of unique dishes," from signature Corn Ribs and Wagyu Udon to exquisite sashimi, fostering a dynamic and communal dining experience perfect for gathering with friends or family.

Finally, the combination of "impeccable" and "friendly, attentive" service, coupled with truly impressive happy hour specials (including both early and late-night options), provides both value and convenience. Shirubē makes it easy for Californians to enjoy high-quality Japanese cuisine regularly, whether it's for a casual happy hour bite or a celebratory dinner. It’s a place that balances culinary excellence with a welcoming atmosphere, solidifying its status as a beloved local gem and a destination for authentic Japanese flavors.

Shirubē

424 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401, USA