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Located in the heart of Downtown Berkeley, Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya is a modern Japanese restaurant that offers a unique izakaya dining experience. This elegant establishment at 2451 Shattuck Ave. combines traditional Japanese flavors with California and global influences, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking delicious Japanese food. With a menu that features everything from fresh sashimi to crispy chicken katsu, Fish & Bird is perfect for both casual diners and those looking to celebrate special occasions.

Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya prides itself on its innovative menu, which includes a variety of small plates perfect for sharing. Guests can enjoy a range of dishes, including: 

House tofu and fried oysters, known for their delightful flavors.

Sashimi platter featuring high-quality, fresh fish.

Crispy chicken katsu, praised for its perfect breading.

Wagyu beef and seasonal vegetables, expertly prepared.

Basque cheesecake and hojicha ice cream for dessert.

Conveniently situated in Downtown Berkeley, Fish & Bird is easily accessible for both locals and visitors. The restaurant is surrounded by vibrant neighborhoods and cultural landmarks, making it an ideal stop after exploring the area. Nearby attractions include the University of California, Berkeley, and the Berkeley Art Museum, both of which are just a short walk away. Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner or a lively night out, Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya is the perfect destination for a memorable dining experience.

Elegant outpost serving a modern Japanese izakaya menu with California & global influences.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2M2NfaTlnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJSVtssxl_hYAR2l6XqAe_ylA/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2M2NfaTlnRRAB

This was my second time at Fish and Bird. I love it each time I come. There’s a lovely, calm atmosphere, the food is delightfully unique, a playground for the pallet. We always order the house tofu and the Fried oysters, and this time got the sushimi platter. It took a little while to get the platter but it was worth the wait. The fish was delectable, high quality and fresh. We closed our dinner with the cold udon and that was refreshing as well.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmMi0yWTNBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJSVtssxl_hYAR2l6XqAe_ylA/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmMi0yWTNBRRAB

Made reservations for New Year 's Eve Prix Fixe Menue ( $145 per person) of Shabu Shabu Three Ways. We came in, received no greeting, were just shown to our table. Food was just ok, pieces of tempura, consisted mainly of string beans, 2 slices of kombucha & one shrimp.  The Wagyu beef striploin slices were too long, so was the  berkshire pork belly slices, hard to handle & eat with just chopsticks. The broth was also almost unretrievable, due to the fact again, we didn't get/ have the right utensils.Our server was friendly, yet not knowledgable, about saki, food etc, but made an effort. The Owner, didn't even thank or wish us a Happy New Year ,when we left. We thought it wasn't worth it, especially at that price, quiete a disappointment. I / we, would not recommend this place to eat.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIOXZUYjJBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJSVtssxl_hYAR2l6XqAe_ylA/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIOXZUYjJBRRAB

We were in the area looking online for where to eat. My friend was really craving Japanese food at that time so we decided to come here. The interiors had an upscale vibe - tall ceilings, open kitchen, and sleek decor. Staff were super nice too.
I got the Chicken Katsu and it was really good! Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The ratio of breading to chicken was also just perfect.
Portions are on the smaller side but izakaya food typically comes in small plates anyways.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzLUlyNGhRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJSVtssxl_hYAR2l6XqAe_ylA/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzLUlyNGhRRRAB

We arrived on a rainy chilly Friday night, with most other places in Berkeley packed with at least 30mins waits. Luckily, we squeezed into the bar counter here, and it was worth it. The vibe was warm and inviting, perfect setting for a cozy izakaya experience.

The menu didn’t disappoint. The wagyu beef was delicious, and Basque cheesecake was light yet creamy, and the fried chicken stole the show: juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor. To top it off, we were pleasantly surprised with complimentary drinks. All in all, a fantastic warm up before our trip to Japan 🇯🇵

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQMXAtQ1RnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJSVtssxl_hYAR2l6XqAe_ylA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQMXAtQ1RnEAE

Just went for our son's birthday. 1st time eating here and we were not disappointed. They were short staffed and Cal just beat Stanford, Go Bears! Considering they were packed and only 4 servers they were able to handle it very well. We ordered the sea bean & corn tempura, anchovie stuffed olives, both great bar snack food. Next was the sashimi which was very high quality seared tuna, toro, kanpachi, kanpachi belly & sea trout. Our main was the tuna collar which was, as the menu states HUGE! Grilled nicely with rare & well done sections. It was very fatty and delicious! Between 4 of us, 2 adults & 2 children, we ate about 85%. Dessert we had the basque cheesecake & hojicha (roasted tea) ice cream. Needless to say we were stuffed and happy.  We'll be back and look forward to trying more.

Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya: Upscale Japanese Dining in Downtown Berkeley

A delightful culinary sanctuary awaits at Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya, tucked away amidst the vibrant streets of Downtown Berkeley. Here, the enticing aroma of grilled delicacies and savory umami dances through the air, inviting patrons into a world where traditional Japanese flavors meet creative English interpretations. Nestled at 2451 Shattuck Avenue, this izakaya offers an inviting ambiance, adorned with warm wooden accents and softly lit lanterns that beckon both locals and curious travelers alike. As you step inside, a menu brimming with artfully presented dishes showcases the best of Japanese izakaya culture. From sumptuous skewers of yakitori to an array of rich sashimi, each bite tells a story—a story of culinary craftsmanship that is as innovative as it is comforting. Pair your meal with a selection from their carefully curated sake list, perfectly complementing the flavors on your plate. The spirited atmosphere encourages a communal dining experience, where one drink can lead to laughter, shared plates, and lively conversations. Positioned in an area rich with culture and history, Fish & Bird serves as a gateway to a world of oral tales and culinary traditions, nestled near the renowned University of California, Berkeley. The energy of this college town pulses through its streets with lively cafés, unique boutiques, and art galleries just a stone's throw away. Discovering this izakaya is more than just a meal; it's a sensory journey through the heart of Japanese culture right in the dynamic soul of California. Whether you’re a native or a visitor, this unique establishment beckons you to indulge in its flavors, making your Berkeley experience unforgettable.

Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya

Discover exquisite Japanese cuisine at Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya in Downtown Berkeley. Savor unique dishes and vibrant flavors. Reserve your table now!

Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya: Upscale Japanese Dining in Downtown Berkeley

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