Ippuku

Welcome to Ippuku - a hidden gem in Berkeley, CA that brings the authentic flavors of Japan right to your table. This izakaya-style restaurant offers a unique dining experience that transports you to a different world as soon as you walk through the noren curtain.

With a focus on yakitori and small plates, Ippuku's menu stays true to its roots while still offering a variety of options to satisfy your cravings. From the matcha gelato to the Zosui porridge, each dish is crafted with care and precision to evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia.

What sets Ippuku apart is not only its delicious food but also the intimate setting it provides. From floating tables to horigotatsu-style private booths, every corner of the restaurant exudes a sense of warmth and coziness.

As a food reviewer, I can attest to the impeccable service, diverse drink menu, and overall excellent dining experience at Ippuku. Whether you're a meat lover or a vegetarian, there is something for everyone on the menu. The attention to detail in each dish and the dedication to providing a memorable dining experience truly make Ippuku a standout in the restaurant world.

If you're looking for a unique dining experience that combines traditional Japanese flavors with a modern twist, look no further than Ippuku. Make a reservation, bring your friends, and get ready to indulge in an unforgettable culinary journey.

Ippuku Menu

Location

Address: 2130 Center St, Berkeley, CA 94704, United States
Phone: +1 510-655-1969

🕓 Work Hours
MON Closed
TUE Closed
WED 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
THU 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
FRI 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM
SAT 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM
SUN 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Business info

  • Takes Reservations
    Yes
  • Offers Takeout
    Yes
  • Many Vegetarian Options
    Yes
  • Accepts Credit Cards
    Yes
  • Accepts Android Pay
    No
  • Accepts Apple Pay
    No
  • Outdoor Seating
    Yes
  • Moderate Noise
    Yes
  • Good for Groups
    Yes
  • Good For Kids
    Yes
  • Good for Dinner
    Yes
  • Garage Parking, Street Parking, Private Lot Parking
    Yes
  • Waiter Service
    Yes
  • Best nights on Friday, Saturday, Sunday
    Yes
  • Full Bar
    Yes
  • TV
    Yes
  • Offers Catering
    No
  • Not Good For Dancing
    No
  • Pool Table
    No
  • Wi-Fi
    No
  • Smoking
    No
  • Dogs Not Allowed
    No
  • Bike Parking
    Yes
  • Compostable containers available
    Yes

Last Reviews

  • Author: Amber D.

    26 August 2024

    Wow! That is about all I can say. This little nondescript gem is something right out of Japan. As soon as we walked in through the hanging noren curtain we were hit with the reality that this was not your typical sit down restaurant. The hanging bottles above the bar, floating tables that hovered over guests offering intimate settings for 2, and the horigotatsu style private booths for larger groups all bring you to a place that is so not Berkeley. We got there towards the end of the evening so a lot of the dishes we wanted to try were sold out as we ordered, but honestly that was a great sign because we knew whatever we did end up getting would be amazing. Every dish we got was more delicious than the next but honestly my favorite was the very simple Zosui, a porridge of rice and chicken that took me straight to my childhood filled with warm comfort foods. The service was impeccable and they made sure we were taken care of even though we were the last ones to leave for the night. Thank you Ippuku and the entire team for creating a beautiful space and equally amazing dishes!

  • Author: Gem P.

    14 August 2024

    Authentic yakitori spot with menu that stays focused yet still has many options. The matcha gelato, gizzard, and pickles were some of my favorites.

  • Author: A K.

    05 August 2024

    5 star food & menu selection. The simple but intricate combos are worth exploring. Hostess was great! Veg options as delicious as meat Drink menu was on point. So much more to try. Minus a point for service. May have been understaffed. Server didn't have knowledge of dishes. Owners, your restaurant is so good. Maybe explain dish components beyond "cucumber

  • Author: Cathy H.

    08 June 2024

    I've come here a couple times and Ippuku never disappoints! I love the izakaya concept and the small plates offered - you can order as much or as little as you want depending on how hungry you are. There is usually a wait so I would recommend making a reservation or coming early to get a table. I've sat in the normal booths and in the ones where you have to take off your shoes and enjoyed sitting at both. All the food is really good; a couple of my favorites: omakase chicken skewers, bacon wrapped mochi, pork belly (thick cut one). The service is relatively quick and the plates keep coming as they are made, which is nice. Depending how much you order, the bill can be high but I think it's worth it. Highly recommend checking this place out if you want delicious Japanese small plates!

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