The Japanese word “izakaya” translates to “pub” or “tavern”, but it doesn’t necessarily fit neatly into either of these definitions.
The literal meaning of the characters 居酒屋 is “stay saké shop”, meaning a place where you can stay and drink, as opposed to a liquor store where you take your drinks home with you.
Japanese Chef Yasuo Shigeyoshi
Izakaya are different from bars in that diners are always seated (usually at a table or on tatami), and there is more privacy available to customers.
While drinking is a big part of an evening out at an izakaya, there’s also a constant stream of (shared) dishes.
It’s hard to classify the food other than “generally goes well with alcohol.”
In fact, the menu can be so diverse that it can be a chance to try new dishes, adding another element to a comfortable night out.
The Bay Area is home to some of the most creative, sophisticated sushi bars around, and the latest arrival, Oni Kuma Izakaya & Hand Roll Bar is located in the Alto Shopping Center (at the intersection of East Blithedale and Lomita Drive) just a few doors down from Whole Foods.
The restaurant opened last June. The proprietors say that locating in Mill Valley was an easy decision, which was reaffirmed even months before they opened, as they were greeted, welcomed and encouraged even over the several months that we were undergoing renovations!
This sense of welcome continued, especially as we had our first experience of joining the Mill Valley Chamber of Commerce. What an amazing collective of creative, and generous people interacting to promote one another’s dreams and efforts!
Please join us at Oni Kuma to taste our Izakaya-Style Sushi Bar, specializing in traditional sushi, home-style sauces, and featuring hand rolls made with high quality fresh fish.
ONI KUMA 鬼熊:
meaning “demon bear.” The Oni Kuma is a mythological Japanese yōkai (spirit) originating in the Nagano Prefecture. It is a bear-like creature that has been known to walk upright. They sneak into villages at night to carry off livestock, bringing them back to their mountain lairs to feast.
Monday – Sunday
11.30 AM -9.30 PM