Everyone loves a good comeback.
Bamboo Izakaya sits across from the pier in Santa Monica, and inhabits its neighbor The Ivy’s old abode. With a covered patio that spans a good portion of the block, Izakaya always seems to have plenty of room, which is a definite welcome to the local Lobster, Ivy, Blue Plate Taco, and Sushi Roku overflow.
If something looks familiar, it’s because Izakaya was once located in the Santa Monica mall on the third floor and under the name Ozumo (closed).
In search for more traffic, Ozumo moved to quite possibly the busiest intersection in Santa Monica. Good for them, and even better for us.
As you know, I’m a huge fan of everything sushi and an even bigger obsessor for all things on a skewer.
This is where Izakaya sings – with a range of small bites on a stick, you can frequent ground chicken, New York beef, bacon-wrapped mushroom, pork belly, shisito, sausage, etc all in one meal. And with full-on flavor, a hint of coaled char, and just enough per order to leave room for a special sushi roll, a bowl of edamame, or the cheeseburger croquettes (what? If you find out, let me know), Izakaya does Japanese-pub right.
Impressively, Izakaya opened with a full bar, which means that you can booze as you bite, and considering the ever-flowing reality show that is Ocean Avenue, you might never leave. And that’s okay since it’s practically summer and we all need a figure-approving lunch/dinner/late-night spot to round out our evenings.
What: Japanese tapas. Sushi. Full bar.
Who: Girl groups, dates, guys who dig sake while watching sports.
Happy Hour: 2:30-5:30 pm every day.
Tip: The pork belly skewer is the best. Order several.
Bamboo Izakaya
1541 Ocean Ave
Santa Monica, 90401
310.566.3860