Ippuku

2130 Center St, Berkeley, CA 94704, United States
+1 510-655-1969
$$$ Izakaya restaurant , Bar
(741 Reviews)
Price Range $50–100

Ippuku is an intimate izakaya tucked into Berkeley’s Center Street strip, where the mood leans toward cozy and a bit shadowy—ideal for a quiet night out with close friends or a low-key date. The space itself feels like stepping into a traditional Japanese bar, with dim lighting and a warm, private vibe that encourages lingering over drinks and small bites.

The menu centers on yakitori and grilled specialties, highlighting some thoughtful takes like the Wagyu Kushi Yaki, a rare Miyazaki rib cap served with matcha salt, and the Buta Bara Kurobuta pork belly skewers that draw from finely sourced Japanese ingredients. Expect small portions crafted to be savored gradually, perfect for sharing rather than a standalone meal. There’s also an adventurous side with items like raw chicken, hinting at a menu that rewards regulars familiar with izakaya nuances. Unique dishes such as squid ink fried rice and bacon-wrapped mochi add unexpected textures and flavors that stand out from typical offerings.

Visitors often note the attentive, friendly staff who can guide you through the sometimes cryptic menu and more hidden items. It’s the kind of place where your familiarity with Japanese bar culture deepens after each visit, especially if you appreciate pairing skewers with thoughtful sakes or Japanese whiskeys. The atmosphere pairs well with relaxed drinking and conversation, though it can feel a little tight when the place is busy, which is common during weekend evenings.

This spot tends to draw locals who value authenticity over flashiness—a serious food-drinker crowd interested in the craft behind each dish, not just a casual meal. Weeknight or early weekend visits might offer a more intimate experience without the longer waits that form as the night progresses. While prices lean toward the moderate side for what you get, the quality and atmosphere give enough reason to drop by when you’re in the mood for a focused, satisfying izakaya experience rather than a quick bite.

Highlights
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves food
Serves healthy options
Serves late-night food
Serves organic dishes
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves wine
Best for
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Paid street parking
Somewhat difficult to find a space

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

05:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Tuesday

05:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Wednesday

05:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Thursday

05:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Friday

05:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Saturday

05:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Sunday

05:00 PM - 10:00 PM

741 Reviews
Y

30 Dec 2025

Delicious skewers, seafood, rice dishes I appreciated the friendly staff. It’s been over ten years since my last visit, I’m sure to be back again!

Eric

29 Dec 2025

The food was delicious but a little inconsistent. Some of the dishes were exceptional and sometimes mind-blowing, others left something in the kitchen (no, not literally). The chicken giblet skewer, for instance, was amazing-you'd never think something so unassuming could have so much flavor. The agadashi tofu was full of deep flavors....I hadn't had this in a long while and it took me back to the first time I was blown away by it. The ethereal pork belly was perfectly paired with a smear of wasabi. The karaage redefined "fried chicken" for me forever. The service seemed a little confused but professional, unintrusively personable, and attentive. We did have to wait for I think around 20 minutes for our table. Sometimes we were served by what seemed like kitchen staff, which was fine, but they didn't seem altogether confident that they were bringing the right plates to the table. Not that we would have rejected anything placed before us.... Whoever thought up the cabbage & white miso mayo appetizer is a genius. We were skeptical but in the end it was devoured. Parking is easy: there are 2 lots down the street that are cheap and well lit. Make reservations and bring your appetite. You won't be sorry.

Olivia

11 Nov 2025

This is truly my favorite Japanese restaurant in town! It’s a bit far from where I live, but every visit is worth it. There’s usually a wait, but the food is so good that I never mind. They have a hidden raw chicken menu, and it’s one of my favorite things to order. Every dish is delicious. The staff are friendly, and the atmosphere is warm and perfect for a date night. Five stars from me. Everything is just so good. Highly recommend.

Quang Truong

03 Nov 2025

The atmosphere is super cool with traditional izakaya place. However, the food should be better with more seasonal to taste with the wine. A bit pricey!

Kevin W

24 Oct 2025

The atmosphere here is a bit dark, really good for girls, lovers , small group, close friends to hangout, chat in a privately place, with alcohol, you will enjoy the most of the time. The food was good, vary by your own taste, portion is small but not pricey, attentive service inside, but they may be long wait if you’re coming at the busy hours

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