When asking yourself about something to do near me in Berkeley with a group of friends or family, consider
Kinda Izakaya
Why Kinda Izakaya is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Kinda Izakaya, located at 1941A University Ave in Berkeley, CA, is a delightful spot that beautifully blends authentic Japanese flavors with a modern and casual twist. This Asian-owned restaurant specializes in Izakaya-style dining, offering savory small plates, indulgent ramen, and creative tapas to suit a range of palates, including vegan-friendly options. Its vibrant yet cozy ambiance, decorated with anime and cultural Japanese imagery, creates a welcoming environment perfect for meeting up with friends, whether for a casual hangout or an intimate date night. Highlights of Kinda Izakaya include signature dishes such as uni, mentaiko cream udon, and the golden spoon that guests eagerly recommend. The bar features a well-curated sake selection, Japanese beers on tap, and innovative cocktails like the sky-high nigori lychee and Japanese Hogwarts, enhancing the lively social atmosphere. The restaurant’s service is known for being attentive and friendly, even if a bit slower during peak hours. Overall, Kinda Izakaya is an inviting and flavorful destination that offers a true experience of Japan’s lively Izakaya culture right in Berkeley, making it a great place for friends to gather and share memorable meals together.
Here's what people think of Kinda Izakaya
As of recent, Kinda Izakaya holds a 4.4-star rating based on 99 reviews.
User reviews for Kinda Izakaya generally reflect a positive dining experience, indicated by its strong 4.4-star rating from 99 reviews. Many patrons appreciate the diverse and authentic menu, especially highlighting the quality of Japanese-style small plates, ramen, and the thoughtful inclusion of vegan dishes. Positive reviews frequently mention the unique ambiance created by the anime and Japanese cultural decorations, which adds to the immersive dining experience. Guests also praise the creative cocktail offerings and the comprehensive sake selection, which contribute to the restaurant’s distinctive character and lively social vibe. However, some negative feedback points out that service can be slow during busy times, which may affect the overall flow of the dining experience. A few reviews also wish for quicker turnaround during peak hours but acknowledge the staff’s friendliness and effort to accommodate guests. In summary, reviews convey that Kinda Izakaya is a must-visit for those seeking authentic Japanese flavors in a relaxed, cozy setting. The slightly slower service during peak times is outweighed by the quality of food, drink, and atmosphere, making it a reliable spot to enjoy an evening with friends or loved ones.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Colin Stuart
Nice ambiance, more Izakaya-y than most Izakaya restaurants in the US. More than your usual sushi fare. Walls covered in Japanese anime and kitch posters. There's a big communal table that was full of Japanese students when we dined.
George Louie
Great little spot with awesome grilled meats you can’t get at many restaurants. The grilled squid was tender, flavorful- cooked to perfection. Tried some yakitori as well, both beef tongue offerings were delicious. I will be back for more!
AKIRRIA
me and my friend decided to spend one of our late night dinners at this place and it was awesome!! The overall experience was great and the workers were so sweet!! I got the salmon and it was truly perfect! Shout out to the workers again thank you for letting us stay so late you guys are amazing. 100% suggest for yummy late night grub!😋
Enmeth Gutierrez
I was craving something warm to eat close to midnight and I found this place. I was with my Japanese roommate, and he himself said this place did give off an Izakaya vibe. Most of the food items offered here I've tried elsewhere, so I ended up getting the sukiyaki, which was to my liking. We did feel a little out of place, as the servers seemed primarily focused on a larger group, who they appeared to be friends with. So we felt a little forgotten throughout most of our time there, also considering that it was not that busy as we did leave a little before they closed.
Melina Tupa
Loved the place! The food was really tasty and great for sharing. They have the best gyozas I had in the East Bay. The skewers were also really tasty and the sweet potato fries too. We didn’t quite like the Crispy Chicken knee (which the table next to us recommended, so it might have been a matter of taste) but we told the waitress and she exchanged it for us at no charge. Staff is super friendly btw! Probably a place to go with friends more so than a date since it’s a bit noisy. But it’s a super fun place and the decor is awesome. Make sure to make a phone reservation to avoid waiting outside.
How to reach Kinda Izakaya
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Why Kinda Izakaya may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Kinda Izakaya with your friends?
Kinda Izakaya, located in the lively area of Berkeley, CA, stands out as an exceptional place for friends to gather, socialize, and enjoy a memorable dining experience. Its unique charm lies in creating an atmosphere that perfectly combines Japanese pub culture with casual fun, making it an ideal spot to rally with your friends. The vibrant interior decked out with Japanese anime and cultural posters instantly immerses guests in an authentic izakaya setting, setting the tone for an exciting evening. The menu caters to a broad range of tastes, featuring everything from expertly prepared skewers and seafood dishes to inventive cocktails and a reasonably priced beer pitcher. This diversity means that everyone in your group can find something to enjoy and share. Moreover, the place thrives on conviviality — lively J-pop music fills the room, encouraging a boisterous, upbeat vibe that naturally brings people together. Despite occasional busyness, the attentive service and welcoming staff make sure everyone, even families with children, feels comfortable and engaged. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion or simply chill after a long day, Kinda Izakaya offers the perfect backdrop for making lasting memories with friends.
What activities can you enjoy at Kinda Izakaya?
Kinda Izakaya is a hub of delightful activities centered on food, drink, and social engagement that make it a fantastic venue for group meetups. First and foremost, the wide-ranging menu invites communal dining, which is a fundamental element of izakaya culture—sharing small dishes encourages conversation and connection. Groups can feast on a variety of dishes such as pork belly appetizers, mentaiko cream udon, chicken karaage, and stellar skewers that cater to different palates. The food presentation and quality elevate the experience without requiring formal dining etiquette, keeping things relaxed and fun. The restaurant’s bar is another attraction, where friends can sample an expressive cocktail list alongside a large chilled pitcher of beer ideal for sharing. The late-night hours on weekends mean you can keep the gathering going without rushing off. The upbeat music selection, predominantly J-pop, adds a festive soundtrack that sets an energetic yet friendly mood, often making guests want to dance or sing along. The setting itself, decorated with playful Japanese pop culture elements, creates a visually stimulating environment that enhances social energy. Lastly, the staff often engage warmly with patrons, ensuring a jovial and inviting atmosphere that encourages lingering and lively conversations well into the night.
Why is Kinda Izakaya perfect for a group meetup?
Several attributes make Kinda Izakaya a perfect spot for hosting group meetups. The restaurant’s focus on shared plates and casual dining means you can easily order a diverse range of food to suit everyone in your party, from vegetarians to meat lovers, making it inclusive and accommodating. The portion sizes and variety encourage sampling and sharing, a social activity that naturally promotes interaction and bonding within groups. The ambiance, characterized by its colorful and culturally rich décor featuring Japanese anime and vintage posters, offers an immersive experience that guests frequently comment on as "more Izakaya than most" they have visited, heightening the authenticity and enjoyment. Moreover, the service is notably accommodating, with staff attentive not just to orders but also to the comfort of the group—including families with children—enhancing the overall experience. The restaurant’s capacity to handle large parties without sacrificing quality or atmosphere means you can plan celebrations, casual get-togethers, or even after-work hangs with ease. Being open until midnight on weekends allows for extended socializing without the pressure of early closing times, perfect for those who like to savor their evenings.
What makes the food and drink offerings at Kinda Izakaya stand out?
Kinda Izakaya excels in delivering a food and beverage experience that excites and satisfies diverse palates, making it a culinary hotspot for groups. The menu is thoughtfully diverse, featuring dishes that range from the delicate and ethereal—such as soft tofu lightly battered and glazed in teriyaki sauce—to heartier options like grilled yellowtail collar and chicken karaage. Notably, the pork belly appetizer and mentaiko cream udon receive high praise for their flavor and quality. The balance between traditional Japanese flavors and inventive preparation creates an enticing lineup perfect for shared tasting. On the beverage side, the cocktail list is described as expressive and creative, complementing the food brilliantly, while the availability of a large pitcher of cold beer is ideal for those who enjoy a classic izakaya drink experience without individually pricey orders. The overall food quality is consistently good, even if some guests mention slower service during peak times, which can be attributed to the popularity and busy atmosphere. This careful attention to taste and presentation ensures guests return again and again to explore the menu and savor new favorites.
How does the atmosphere at Kinda Izakaya contribute to group enjoyment?
The atmosphere at Kinda Izakaya is one of its strongest draws for groups looking to have a great time. The restaurant embodies the spirit of an authentic izakaya, blending casual dining with an energetic and boisterous vibe. This makes for an environment where guests feel free to talk, laugh, and move around without the rigidity of formal dining. The walls covered in Japanese anime and colorful kitch posters offer visual entertainment, prompting conversation starters and a shared cultural experience. Music choices—predominantly upbeat J-pop—create a dynamic soundtrack that keeps the energy lively yet approachable, encouraging guests to relax and enjoy themselves fully. The lighting and interior design cultivate a warm and inviting space that balances between a cozy pub and a vibrant social hub. Customers often comment that the space feels alive with a friendly buzz, ideal for groups wanting to connect in a fun setting. The staff’s warm interaction, including their willingness to engage with families and children, further enhances the comfort level, making the atmosphere inclusive and inviting for all ages.
Why should you consider Kinda Izakaya for your next celebration or casual gathering?
Kinda Izakaya is an excellent choice for both special celebrations and casual get-togethers due to its versatile and customer-focused approach. The combination of a diverse menu, comfortable group seating arrangements, and welcoming atmosphere suits a variety of occasions—from birthday parties and small reunions to after-work drinks or weekend hangouts. Its location in Berkeley, a vibrant college town, adds an energetic local flavor that complements the restaurant’s lively ambiance. The late closing hours on weekends provide flexibility for longer visits, allowing celebrations to unfold at a relaxed pace. Even though the place can get busy, making reservations is straightforward and advisable, ensuring your group gets accommodated smoothly. Many returning guests highlight the consistent quality of the food and drinks alongside the attentive service, reinforcing Kinda Izakaya as a dependable and enjoyable venue. Whether you want to impress friends with authentic Japanese cuisine or simply share laughs over cocktails, Kinda Izakaya delivers a memorable experience worth repeating.
In summary, Kinda Izakaya is much more than just a restaurant; it is a vibrant social space designed to foster connection through excellent food, creative drinks, and an inviting atmosphere rich with Japanese cultural elements. For anyone looking to enjoy a lively night out with friends or family in Berkeley, this izakaya hits the sweet spot of authenticity, fun, and warmth.