Ichigo Ichie Bistro and Natural Wine menu overview
Nestled in the heart of Cork, Ichigo Ichie Bistro and Natural Wine offers a distinctive culinary journey that blends authentic Japanese inspiration with exceptional local produce. This cozy spot is renowned for its thoughtfully curated menu that perfectly balances umami-rich flavors and natural wines, making it a must-visit for food lovers seeking a refined yet welcoming experience.
Starters
Begin your meal with elegant starters that showcase both texture and flavor. The Agedashi Tofu is a delicate treat, featuring silky tofu served with daikon, ginger, and garnished with katsuobushi and nori for a smoky finish. For a crispy delight, the Assorted Tempura combines a variety of fresh vegetables enveloped in a light, golden batter. If you prefer a bit of a kick, the Edamame Pepperoncino offers tender soybeans sautéed with garlic, chili, and black pepper, providing a perfect balance of heat and aroma.
Mains
Delve into a range of hearty mains that celebrate traditional Japanese dishes with a contemporary twist. The signature Pork Katsu Simmered in Dashi with Onion Eggs offers a comforting plate of crispy pork paired with a flavorful dashi broth and soft-cooked eggs. For rice bowl lovers, options include the Deep Fried Chicken Donburi and Cod Nanban Donburi, both featuring tender protein atop steamed rice, accented by savory eggs, onions, and special sauces. Vegetarians will enjoy the Deep Fried Vegetables Donburi, a vibrant mix of assorted fried vegetables served with rice and rich sauce.
For a refined taste of tempura, the Tempura Prawns, Aubergine, Mushrooms, and Shiso on Rice with Don Dashi Sauce offers a harmonious blend of seafood and earthy vegetables, ideal for those seeking complex flavors. The soba noodle selection is equally impressive, with classic choices such as Zaru Soba served with a refreshing tsuyu broth and more adventurous bowls like the Natto Bukkake Soba featuring fermented soybeans and egg yolk, or the citrusy Yuzu Lemon Oroshi Soba that brightens the palate with yuzu, lemon, daikon, and scallions. Duck lovers should not miss the Kamo Nanban Soba, which pairs tender skeaghanore duck with hay leek in a savory broth.
Desserts
Conclude your meal with a refreshing dessert that blends traditional Japanese flavors with a modern twist. The Matcha Panna Cotta with Lychee Ice Cream offers a creamy and subtly bitter matcha custard balanced by the sweet and floral notes of lychee, delivering a delightful and memorable finish to your dining experience.
Drinks and Specials
Ichigo Ichie Bistro specializes in natural wines that perfectly complement its menu offerings. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to recommend the perfect pairing to elevate your meal. The bistro also features a specials board that frequently highlights fresh and seasonal delights, such as the acclaimed Bluefin Tuna Belly served over rice — a dish praised for its extraordinary flavor and paired beautifully with select wines for a luxurious dining experience.
- Agedashi Tofu – Silky tofu with daikon, ginger, katsuobushi, and nori.
- Tempura Prawns on Rice – Crispy prawns with aubergine, mushrooms, shiso, and don dashi sauce.
