Ichiban — Restaurant in Chico

I live in Texas, so this was my first experience of fine dining in chico. When we got there we were very excited to enjoy our dinner date. It was a very cute patio outdoor seating with a nice atmosphere. The wait to be seated was short even though they were busy. The main concern wasn't until they took us to our table to be seated. It was a random tiny wooden table for two pressed up against the wall directly in the middle of a big dirty gray puddle. As it had not rained for days I assumed it was leaking out the building itself. Seeing as the water was deep and didn't want to ruin my shoes or have soaked socks during my date, I kindly asked if we could be moved out of the puddle. The server said she would ask management and return. I see management come out with a different table and setting it up a few feet from us. I was happy thinking we would actually get to sit in the patio tables they have and not this uncomfortable little wooden table. But I was mistaken as they had instead set out a brand new table for two teenagers instead and then came and said they would move our table out of the puddle. I was happy as long as I wasn't in the water. That was until I saw where they were placing our table. They proceeded to put in right in front of some door from the building that was on a ramp only a few feet away from said puddle. Yes a little sloped ramp for us to enjoy our dinner date slanted with the fear of our stuff falling over this already tiny table. This spot was also beautifully positioned a few feet away from a parking space as well so we got to enjoy headlights blinding us in the face all night long. We stayed optimistic seeing as it was already late and not many places were open. We wanted to at least give the food a try even though the rest of the experience was a bit embarrassing to say the least. The food was great and our server was very kind. Would of been 5 stars had it not been feeling like the outcast women stuck to the corner. Luckily for us we make the most out of...

Izakaya Ichiban: A Decent Spot for Sushi

Izakaya Ichiban is a popular spot in Chico for Japanese cuisine, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere that’s great for a casual meal. My recent visit was enjoyable overall, though there are a few areas where the experience could be improved.

The Good:

✔ The restaurant has a warm and welcoming ambiance, making it a comfortable place to dine. ✔ The staff was friendly and attentive, contributing to a pleasant experience. ✔ The kitchen, tables and chairs were all very clean.

Areas for Improvement:

🔹 The sushi rice was softer than expected, which affected the texture of the rolls. A slight adjustment could enhance the overall balance of each bite. 🔹 The sauces had a familiar, pre-made taste rather than the fresh, house-made flavors that elevate sushi dishes. A bit more depth in seasoning could make a big difference. 🔹 The front door is caked in grime, the shades and windows are grimy too. Not what I would expect from a meticulously minded Japanese operated business.

Overall:

Izakaya Ichiban has the potential to be a fantastic sushi spot with a few refinements. The atmosphere and service are definite highlights, and with slight improvements to the rice and sauces, they could elevate their offerings significantly.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ ⭐ (4/5)

Would I recommend it? Since we are not in Tokyo, San Francisco, LA or the like, yes. If you’re looking for a relaxed place for a sushi fix, Izakaya Ichiban is a solid option. For those seeking a more refined sushi experience, exploring other spots in Chico might...

If you're looking for an unforgettable dining experience in Chico, Ichiban is a absolute must-visit! From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere that perfectly blends modern elegance with traditional Japanese charm. Whether you're a sushi enthusiast or a fan of hearty hibachi-grilled dishes, Ichiban delivers excellence in every bite.

✨ Standout Dishes & Highlights ✨

🍣 Sushi & Sashimi – Fresh, expertly prepared, and beautifully presented. The Rainbow Roll and Spicy Tuna Roll were bursting with flavor, and the fish melted in my mouth. The sashimi platter was a highlight—impeccably fresh and sliced to perfection.

🔥 Hibachi Grill – The hibachi show is both entertaining and delicious! The chefs are skilled and engaging, making the experience fun for families and groups. The filet mignon and shrimp combo was tender and seasoned beautifully, while the fried rice had the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

🍜 Ramen & Noodles – The Tonkotsu Ramen was rich, savory, and deeply satisfying, with perfectly cooked noodles and a creamy broth. A must-try for ramen lovers!

Appetizers & Extras – The gyoza (dumplings) were crispy yet tender, and the edamame was perfectly salted. The miso soup was a comforting start...