Ippuku

The story

Ippuku | Berkeley Izakaya & Yakitori | Bib Gourmand

Ippuku

In downtown Berkeley, just across from the BART station, Ippuku has been doing something quietly special since it opened as a collaboration between Christian Geidemann and Paul Discoe. What started as a partnership has grown into a larger family, and the restaurant remains dedicated to creating a genuine izakaya experience.

The focus here is charcoal-grilled yakitori, made with heritage La Belle Rouge chickens from Pittman Farms in Manteca. The menu also covers the izakaya standards you'd hope for, all served in a setting that feels both relaxed and intentional. The sake list is notable, and the space is air-conditioned and wheelchair accessible.

That commitment to quality and value has earned Ippuku a Michelin Bib Gourmand, a recognition that points to good cooking at a reasonable price. It's a fitting nod to a place that doesn't try to be anything other than what it is: a neighborhood spot for Japanese food, done right.

Ippuku is open for dinner nightly, with last call around 9:30 on weeknights and 10:30 on weekends.