If you’re looking for Japanese food or sushi in Santa Barbara, you won’t want to miss Yoichi’s Japanese restaurant. A husband and wife team have transformed an old house into an intimate Japanese fine dining restaurant. It’s small, with only a few tables, so you’ll want to book your reservation early. It’s a very quiet atmosphere with attentive and personal service, so be sure to go with someone who appreciates Japanese food and culture.
Yoichi’s serves Kaiseki cuisine, a traditional multi-course dinner with a seven-course tasting menu that originated in the 16th century. The menu typically includes assorted appetizers, sashimi, soup, and grilled dishes. It’s very seasonal using the freshest seafood and seasonal ingredients with delicate flavors. This could include Santa Barbara spiny lobster, Wagyu beef, or locally grown bamboo shoots.
A few of our favorite dishes included the soup with snow crab and mushrooms, sweet miso marinated scallop, and the chef’s selections of sashimi. We recommend ordering sake as well to pair with your dinner. For a limited time, they’re also offering takeaway bento boxes. If you aren’t looking for a multi-course experience, this is your opportunity to pick up bento boxes and sake for dinner at home.
Yoichi’s, 230 E Victoria street, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101
