Nestled at 2451 Shattuck Ave. in the lively heart of Downtown Berkeley, Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya is a refined yet inviting Japanese dining experience that artfully blends traditional izakaya flavors with contemporary California and global influences. Known for its fresh, thoughtfully crafted dishes, this eatery offers a sophisticated atmosphere that appeals to food enthusiasts, trend-conscious travelers, and locals seeking an elegant night out. Whether you're savoring their signature house tofu or indulging in the freshest sashimi, each bite is a delightful exploration of texture and flavor.
At Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya, the ambiance is a perfect balance of stylish and intimate, featuring sleek décor and an open kitchen with tall ceilings that create a relaxed yet upscale vibe. The menu shines with creative small plates designed to share, including crowd favorites like their crispy fried chicken, delicate fried oysters, and house tofu that playfully excite the palate. Seafood lovers rave about the high-quality sashimi selections and the generously portioned tuna collar, grilled to perfection with a fatty, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
The culinary craftsmanship here transforms dining into a playful and sophisticated journey, making Fish & Bird a true gem in Berkeley’s vibrant food scene.
- Outdoor seating with a unique Japanese charcoal grilling (yakiniku) experience.
- Full bar serving craft cocktails, sake, shochu, wine, beer, and tea.
- Takeout and delivery options including home meal kits for hot pot dishes.
- Pet-friendly environment welcoming guests with their furry friends.
- Convenient parking options including free street parking and paid street parking.
Regular patrons praise Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya for its consistently fresh ingredients and the creative approach to Japanese small plates. The calm and stylish atmosphere coupled with attentive, friendly service creates an inviting setting for intimate dinners or lively gatherings. While some find the pricing on the higher side, the quality and inventive nature of the dishes more than justify the investment, making it a celebrated spot among Berkeley’s culinary scene.
- What are the operating hours of Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya? The restaurant operates Thursday through Monday, with varying hours: Thursday: 5 – 8:30 pm; Friday & Saturday: 5 – 9 pm; Sunday & Monday: 5 – 8:30 pm; Closed Tuesday & Wednesday.
- Is there outdoor seating available? Yes, Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya offers outdoor seating, including a unique outdoor yakiniku (Japanese charcoal grilling) experience.
- Do they offer takeout or delivery services? Yes, the restaurant provides takeout and delivery services, including home meal kits for hot pot dishes.
- Is the restaurant pet-friendly? Yes, Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya is pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their pets along.
- Do they have a full bar? Yes, the restaurant features a full bar with craft cocktails, sake, shochu, wine, beer, and tea selections.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Berkeley at 2451 Shattuck Avenue, Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya is a standout destination for lovers of innovative Japanese cuisine. Since its opening in early 2020, this modern izakaya has redefined traditional dining by merging authentic Japanese flavors with fresh, seasonal Californian ingredients.
Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya was established by visionary Chef Asuka Uchida and co-owner Yoshika Hedberg in early 2020. Their mission was to craft a dining experience that honors traditional Japanese izakaya culture while embracing California’s rich agricultural bounty. The founders’ dedication to using local, sustainable produce alongside select Japanese imports quickly set the restaurant apart as a culinary gem in Berkeley.
Shortly after opening, Fish & Bird introduced an outdoor yakiniku feature. This Japanese charcoal grilling experience showcases premium A5 wagyu beef and a curated selection of fresh seafood, elevating the communal dining spirit intrinsic to izakaya culture. The addition underscored the restaurant's commitment to quality and innovation.
The global pandemic of 2020 brought challenges that Fish & Bird met with creativity and resilience. The menu swiftly adapted to include takeout-friendly favorites, such as shrimp katsu sandwiches and heat-at-home Japanese meatballs, ensuring diners could enjoy the restaurant’s unique flavors safely from their homes. This agility reflected the establishment's deep understanding of community needs and culinary excellence.
Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya’s menu is a thoughtfully curated mix of hot pots, skewers, rice boxes, and sandos. Each dish features a focus on fresh, seasonal vegetables and simple yet elegant presentation, embodying the harmony of Japanese culinary tradition and Californian innovation. Diners appreciate the stylish interiors with tall ceilings and an inviting open kitchen, creating a calm and elegant atmosphere to complement the food.
- 2020: Opened by Chef Asuka Uchida and co-owner Yoshika Hedberg.
- 2020: Launched outdoor yakiniku featuring A5 wagyu beef and assorted seafood.
- 2020: Adapted menu to include takeout-friendly items like shrimp katsu sandwiches and heat-at-home Japanese meatballs during the pandemic.
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Berkeley, Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya offers a chic and intimate dining experience that celebrates the art of modern Japanese cuisine with a distinct California twist. This stylish spot is known for its creative dishes crafted from fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients, making every meal a delightful exploration for the palate.
The menu showcases an innovative izakaya style offering that includes crowd favorites such as house tofu, fried oysters, and sashimi platters, all prepared with meticulous attention to quality and flavor. Guests rave about the juicy fried chicken, delicate Basque cheesecake, and the refreshing cold udon, making it a playground for food enthusiasts seeking unique tastes.
- Modern Japanese cuisine with creative twists — innovative dishes that fuse tradition with contemporary flair.
- Fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients — ensuring top-notch quality and responsible sourcing.
- Stylish and intimate ambiance — featuring tall ceilings, an open kitchen, and sleek decor perfect for cozy gatherings.
- Full bar with craft cocktails and Japanese spirits — perfect for pairing with your meal or enjoying a night out.
- Pet-friendly environment and outdoor seating — including a unique yakiniku experience that elevates outdoor dining.
While Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya impresses with its culinary creativity and ambiance, potential visitors should be aware of a few factors. The pricing tends to be on the higher side compared to other local options, reflecting its premium ingredients and refined preparations. Additionally, the portion sizes are generally smaller, consistent with traditional izakaya style, which might not satisfy larger appetites.
Operating hours are somewhat limited, so planning ahead and making reservations is recommended, especially during peak times or special occasions. Some guests have noted that service can occasionally feel rushed or less attentive when the restaurant is busy. Despite these considerations, the overall experience remains rewarding for those seeking a sophisticated and intimate Japanese dining adventure in Berkeley.
Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya stands out as a refined destination for food lovers craving inventive Japanese flavors in a contemporary setting. With its commitment to quality ingredients, artistic dishes, and inviting atmosphere, it offers a memorable dining experience that beautifully balances tradition and innovation. Whether you're after a casual drink with friends or a special night out, this Berkeley gem deserves a spot on your culinary itinerary.
