When asking yourself about something to do near me in Berkeley with a group of friends or family, consider
Kiraku
Why Kiraku is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Kiraku is a unique Japanese izakaya-style restaurant located in Berkeley, California, offering an authentic taste of modern Japanese dining. Since opening in July 2011, Kiraku has embraced the meaning of its name, which is "to relax," by creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages patrons to unwind and enjoy quality time with friends over delicious food and drinks. The restaurant specializes in small plates, premium sake, shochu, and beers served with the authentic Japanese touch, such as the Asahi draft beer poured with its signature creamy foam from a Japanese serving machine. Kiraku's chef, Daiki Saito, brings a rich culinary background rooted in French cooking and years of experience in sushi and yakitori, blending Japanese flavors with the vibrant culture of Berkeley. The innovative bottle keep system offers regular customers the convenience and value of ordering sake or shochu in larger quantities, which can be stored and enjoyed over time. The welcoming atmosphere, starting with the warm oshibori towels upon seating, harmonizes well with the handcrafted ceramics used in serving. Kiraku's dedication to delivering a genuine izakaya experience makes it a great place for friends to meet, relax, and savor authentic Japanese cuisine in a comfortable, social setting.
Here's what people think of Kiraku
As of recent, Kiraku holds a 4.6-star rating based on 728 reviews.
Customer reviews highlight Kiraku's success in delivering an authentic and enjoyable Japanese dining experience. Reviewers consistently praise the delicious food, describing the menu as well-curated with flavorful small plates that capture the spirit of izakaya dining. The friendly and attentive service further enhances the atmosphere, with patrons appreciating the warm and relaxed environment perfect for group gatherings or intimate meals. Many positive reviews mention the quality of the Asahi draft beer and the selection of sake, along with the chef's skill and unique culinary background as clear differentiators. However, some critiques focus on the limited operating hours, as Kiraku is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays and opens primarily for dinner service in the evenings. A few guests noted that the prices reflect the quality and atmosphere, positioning the restaurant in a moderate to higher price range. Overall, the overwhelmingly positive sentiments outweigh the minor limitations, with most visitors recommending Kiraku for those seeking a genuine izakaya experience in Berkeley. The consistent 4.6-star rating from over 700 reviews underscores the establishment's strong reputation and continued appeal among locals and visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Joanne Yuen
I love this place so much, have been here for years and their food never fails to impress me. Definitely check for reservations ahead of time if you can because it gets busy. Kiraku is definitely one of the best izakaya spots in the Bay Area with a wide range of dishes and fresh seasonal ingredients. You can’t go wrong from their tempuras, to sushi, to skewers. Highly recommend bringing a friend so you can maximize trying different dishes. Prices are a bit higher, but well worth it.
SYDNEY
Food was ideal for me. I had the abalone with creamed spinach, the carbonara, and clam miso. The waitresses clearly work very hard to tend to everyone. The chefs make sure the meals are up to par. It does take a long time to be seated which is worth noting if you’re traveling from afar. However, after eating the food I am glad I waited. To be candid it was a 2 hour wait, but this goes to show how in demand the food is. Furthermore, they prep the food fast and as soon as one table leaves someone takes that spot so they restaurant should not be blamed for the long wait.
Lixing Fu
I’m looking for great food. Kiraku is very hard to book, but I think it’s a bit overhyped compared to its price. I’m surprised how many good reviews it got on Google map. The seafood is good, but not worth the value. The otoro is not the creamy texture that its price should be. The salmon roe is too salty. Other food like grilled skewers including unagi skews, pork belly skews are ok but not excellent. Talking about Japanese food, people always have an illusion that it must be good. With very expensive pricing, I do not think it is good in taste as rintaro in SF, and both are overpriced even given the pricing level in the Bay Area nowadays. A mediocre restaurant in Japan can outbeat it. The food level also cannot catch up NYC or some Izakayas in Boston.
Z M
Edit: coming back to say more cuz this honest review got reported 🤐😭😭 Super mediocre food and barely any space to move in the restaurant. The service was decent. Very unfortunately, we tried 10+ dishes including some that are highly recommended by the reviews, but barely half were good. You also can’t really tell from the photos but the portions are very small even for izakaya. We drove down to Berkeley and had only one meal there so I picked Kiraku since a lot of people say this is the best place in the town - very disappointed.
Cala
My fav izakaya in bay area over the years, the most authentic food and vibes, quick-changing seasonal menu. Never had enough, never be bored. Only thing is I wish the waiting line is shorter!
How to reach Kiraku
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Website: None
Why Kiraku may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Kiraku with your friends?
If you are searching for a vibrant, authentic, and intimate spot to gather with friends or family, Kiraku in Berkeley stands out as an exceptional choice. The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere, combined with its remarkable culinary offerings, strikes a delicate balance between casual comfort and sophistication. With a high rating of 4.6 from over 700 reviews, it’s clear that patrons consistently enjoy the experience here. Kiraku brings a taste of Japan’s izakaya culture—a style of informal dining centered around sharing plates and drinks—into the heart of Berkeley. This makes it perfect for group meetups where conversation and camaraderie are as important as the food itself. The space, although small and cozy, encourages a sense of closeness that fosters lively discussions and bonding moments. Guests can indulge in a diverse menu that goes well beyond typical sushi and sashimi, featuring creative Japanese tapas which invite exploration and collective enjoyment. Pair this with a carefully curated sake and tea selection, and you have an ideal recipe for a memorable outing with your favorite people. Whether it’s catching up over drinks or celebrating a special occasion, Kiraku offers a distinct, authentic environment to rally and create shared memories.
What kinds of activities and dining experiences does Kiraku offer for a group meetup?
Kiraku is designed to be a hub of shared experiences, especially for groups who appreciate food exploration and lively conversation. The core activity revolves around enjoying a tasting-style meal — sharing multiple small plates, known as “tapas,” that showcase modern Japanese izakaya cuisine. These dishes range from fresh sashimi selections and delicately seasoned croquettes to deep-fried rock shrimp tempura served with mayo, and unique items like anchovy with broccoli or crab nanbanzuke. Each dish is crafted to offer bold umami flavors that encourage sampling and passing plates around the table. The menu is intentionally broad, so groups can cater to a range of palates and preferences without being limited to sushi alone. Beyond food, Kiraku also excels in its beverage pairing options; the sake menu is thoughtfully curated, including local varieties that add an authentic touch to the experience. Tea lovers won’t be disappointed either, as the restaurant features a “great tea selection” that complements the meal perfectly. The lively, small setting also invites interaction not only among guests but with the knowledgeable and warm staff, who provide excellent service and recommendations, enhancing the overall social dining atmosphere.
Why is Kiraku’s ambiance particularly suited for a group gathering?
Kiraku’s intimate size — seating about 30 people — contributes significantly to its charm and suitability for group rendezvous. While the restaurant can be quite popular and busy, leading to occasional waits, this only adds to the excitement and anticipation of the experience. The cozy space fosters a communal vibe where conversation flows easily, and everyone feels included in the shared joy of the meal. Unlike expansive and impersonal dining halls, Kiraku’s warm and unpretentious atmosphere makes it feel like a private celebration among friends rather than just another night out. The interior reflects a subtle homage to Japan’s dining culture, from the choice of serving ware to the style of dishes, which adds an enchanting cultural layer to the meetup. The casual yet refined setting is perfect for unwinding after a day’s work, a weekend gathering, or even a special occasion. Because the layout encourages interaction, it’s easy for different groups or parties to engage with one another or simply enjoy the buzz around them. This sense of closeness and lively energy is ideal for fostering memorable social connections.
How does Kiraku’s menu support diverse group tastes and dietary preferences?
The menu at Kiraku is thoughtfully constructed to cater to a wide variety of tastes, making it an excellent choice for diverse groups. Unlike many Japanese restaurants that focus heavily on sushi and raw seafood, Kiraku offers a rich spectrum of options. From tasty starters such as smoked pickles and tangy mustard green pickles to complex dishes like seared spicy cod roe and red miso clam soup, there is a little something for everyone. For those who prefer cooked items, the yuzu chicken udon, rock shrimp tempura, and croquettes provide fulfilling yet flavorful selections. Vegetarians or lighter eaters will appreciate side dishes and innovative vegetable preparations like beautifully pickled takana mustard greens or broccoli dishes. The extensive sashimi sampler is perfect for seafood lovers seeking the freshest fish, emphasizing quality and presentation. Additionally, the dessert selection—featuring delicacies like frozen cheesecake with marmalade and yuzu mochi—rounds out the meal with unique, subtly sweet flavors that everyone can enjoy. This versatility ensures groups with varying culinary preferences can share and savor complementary tastes without compromise.
What makes Kiraku’s service and convenience practical for group events?
Part of Kiraku’s appeal for meetups is its attentive and knowledgeable service that prioritizes customer enjoyment and ease. Staff members are well-versed in the menu specifics, helping groups navigate the many options and suggesting ideal dish and beverage pairings to maximize the dining experience. Despite the compact size, the service is consistently warm, welcoming, and attentive without feeling intrusive. Fast service also means that groups aren’t left waiting long between courses, maintaining the momentum of conversation and fun. Although there is often a wait for seating during busy times, this is why reservations are highly recommended, especially for larger parties. Kiraku accepts various payment methods, including credit, debit, and NFC mobile payments, which simplifies settling the bill for groups. The restaurant also offers dine-in, delivery, and planning options, providing flexibility depending on the group’s needs. Whether you want a hassle-free dinner celebration or a casual get-together, the staff’s accommodating approach reduces stress and enhances the overall outing.
How do pricing and location add to Kiraku’s appeal for group gatherings?
Kiraku offers an excellent balance of quality and value, providing an elevated dining experience at reasonable prices. Guests receive exceptional flavors, authentic dishes, and attentive service without prohibitive costs, making it accessible for various group occasions, from casual meetings to special celebrations. Although the final bill may seem on the pricier side, particularly if ordering several plates and drinks, the consensus is that the quality justifies the expense. The location in Berkeley is another significant draw — it taps into the lively energy of a university town, drawing in students, professionals, and locals alike. This central setting makes it easy to gather everyone without long commutes. Being a somewhat hidden gem means Kiraku also offers a unique experience compared to more mainstream or tourist-heavy spots. Its blend of authentic Japanese fare, convenient urban location, and fair pricing makes it an ideal destination to host versatile get-togethers throughout the year.
What are important considerations when planning a group meetup at Kiraku?
While Kiraku’s charm lies in its cozy, sought-after nature, this also means some practical considerations come into play when organizing a group event. The limited seating capacity means space is at a premium, and the restaurant is often busy, so securing a reservation well in advance is essential to avoid long waits. Groups should also be mindful that the smallness of the space might limit very large gatherings, making Kiraku better suited for intimate parties or medium-sized groups. It’s advisable to plan the meal as a sharing experience to take full advantage of the tapas-style menu, as well as to streamline ordering and to encourage interaction. Also, given the restaurant’s focus on authentic and elevated Japanese dishes, groups might want to explore the menu beforehand or consult with staff on dish selections to cater to any specific dietary needs or preferences. Being prepared for a slightly higher price point than casual takeout or fast food ensures everyone is comfortable with the overall cost. Finally, the lively atmosphere means it’s a place for social enjoyment rather than quiet or private conversations, so groups looking to celebrate with energy and fun will find it ideal.
Kiraku is a standout venue for friends or family looking to rally around a table filled with authentic flavors, culturally rich ambiance, and warm camaraderie. Its focus on modern Japanese tapas, intimate setting, knowledgeable service, quality ingredients, and balanced pricing creates an inviting environment to enjoy shared moments. This makes Kiraku more than just a restaurant—it’s a destination for meaningful social dining experiences in Berkeley.