Presentation on Map Reviews Nearby

Ichiban Japanese Restaurant in Santa Maria

4.5 (102) 2011 S Broadway # L, Santa Maria, CA 93454, United States

Categories

Japanese restaurant

Location on the map

Santa Maria, Santa Barbara County, California, US

Phone: +1 805-614-9808

Opening hours

Monday:11:30 AM–2 PM
Tuesday:11:30 AM–2 PM
Wednesday:11:30 AM–2 PM
Thursday:11:30 AM–2 PM
Friday:11:30 AM–2 PM
Saturday:5–9 PM
Sunday:Closed

Edit info

Total reviews rating 4.5

102 Reviews for Ichiban Japanese Restaurant 2024:

Review №1

2023-11-30 15:06:42

Came hear for the first time last night. The food was great had awsome flavor a bit pricey but in my opinion it was worth it

Review №2

2023-03-24 15:45:03

The staff was very friendly and helpful. The food was delicious and we got it quickly. I had a wonderful experience. We ordered some sushi rolls, an Udon soup, eggrolls and a chicken Katsu Box

Review №3

2023-06-05 03:30:51

They have separate rooms with the traditional Japanese seating at an additional cost. One room for 4 and another for upto 6 ppl.Food was tasty and service quick.

Review №4

2023-04-28 00:30:40

Glad I chose this place over the others in the area! Most of the other restaurants didnt have super great reviews so I was nervous coming here. The restaurant is clean, service is great and food is wonderful!! Highly recommend if you are trying to find a good spot!

Review №5

2023-08-09 03:36:11

This place is always a solid choice. I go maybe once every month or two and its always a delight. Ive had most of their bentos and they are tasty and a decent amount of food for the price. Theyre hot sake 🍶 is an excellent addition to the evening. And they are the restaurant that has been getting me to try sushi again and I am starting to like it as a result. The customer service is good and the place has an excellent atmosphere for a fun night out

Review №6

2021-08-12 06:53:26

Extremely disappointed with the quality of food. The entry and decor are lovely. Staff was masked with surgical masks.The food was ridiculously expensive for inferior sushi. Literally the worst I’ve ever had. Tasted like what one would get at a bad grocery store. California roll was okay but I don’t like roe and there’s was tons of it.

Review №7

2022-08-05 21:04:36

I love the fact the open up the dinning room so we can see the sushi bar. The food isnt like the it was but honestly its not bad i liked it. The staff was very friendly and overall i still love it. Now my favorite was the match cheesecake.

Review №8

2023-01-20 03:11:35

Really cute Japanese restaurant. Very nice decor. The service was quick and our friendly. The food was delicious and good size portion.

Review №9

2023-10-30 01:10:08

When your server makes a mistake on an order admit it. I am never going back. It is expensive and to justify it you need great food and service. I did not get it and the owner/manager did not care.

Review №10

2020-07-28 14:35:25

I first tried Ichiban over a decade ago and thought it was great. Not only was the food delicious, but the experience of the atmosphere and the friendliness of the staff, was something that stuck in my mind after all these years. I finally had the chance to go back, and to my delight, it was all just as good as before. I live in Santa Barbara, so I can’t go there very frequently, but when I do, it is a must stop.

Review №11

2023-04-20 03:34:44

The flavor of seasoning was good on the Japanese ceviche I ordered but the cut of the fish was nearly impossible to chew. They have me the parts with the tendon and some of the salmon seemed like it had freezer burn. They refused to give me anything else. And had to pay even though I didn’t eat it. They did apologize for the type of cut I got.

Review №12

2023-04-18 04:29:02

Came in for the first time tonight and I couldn’t be more pleased. Food was delicious and the service was great! Our servers Katie and Amy went above and beyond with quality hospitality. Can’t wait to come back!

Review №13

2022-09-16 06:21:23

Beware: new ownership, new menu, all old reviews are not relevant to this new restaurant. The family dinner option was removed. As far as I am concerned, families are no longer welcome.Ive been coming to this restaurant for almost 20 years. Birthdays, graduations, old friends in town, any celebration and wed order the family dinner. Food would be brought family style, on large plates and we would all share and have a great time as a group. It was a real dining experience, always an excellent variety of food, fun, and a great way to have a night out as a family, great for kids too, but family dinner is no longer an option. The past ~20 years of celebrations were great and we have had a lot of good memories, but sadly well need to find a new place to celebrate going forward. I hear Hama Sato down the street is still serving family style dinners

Review №14

2023-03-02 05:00:53

Simply put - this is the BEST sushi on the central coast.Come support your mom and pops restaurant and experience what your tastebuds have been missing out on.BEST SUSHI!

Review №15

2022-12-28 18:08:02

Delicious food and courteous staff. We like to book the private room and it’s worth it it’s so wonderful and peaceful. The food is delicious and the green tea is a favorite when we go.

Review №16

2020-05-10 19:38:45

This place is home. Been going there for about 18 years now. Same great service and love from the staff.Best tempura in the whole central coast hands down. They cook it with fresh oil every shift. And never mix the shrimp with the vegetables. The nacho roll is spectacular!!.FISH IS ALWAYS FRESH!! that’s what I love the most about Ichiban. Ken and his family always a delight.

Review №17

2023-02-03 15:26:23

-Edited on 11/12/22This restaurant is now under a new ownership since mid 2022.The following post was for the original Ichiban restaurant. I missed this place.Friendly staff and a great place to have an authentic Japanese restaurant in town.Chicken combination would be my go-to and Chirashi for my husband.

Review №18

2022-04-14 03:12:45

Our favorite Japanese restaurant in Santa Maria. We were here few years ago stopping by on the way home from Cambria. We loved the food back then. We had lunch again today on our way back and we were not disappointed. Well be back!

Review №19

2021-12-19 05:08:29

Horrible. I’ve always loved sushi and this place made me rethink ever eating it. Certain items were way overpriced, such as the gyoza. The meat in the gyoza was pink. My stomach was torn apart after, as well as everyone who was with me. Sushi did NOT taste good at all. It was like they microwaved it and didn’t cook it all the way. Even the miso soup was bad. I went around 5 and I’m still not feeling good.

Review №20

2019-10-31 03:24:27

Great, authentic Japanese food! My father and I recently had lunch there. My father ordered the Steak combination and I ordered the Chirashi. The food was delicious. We both finished our plate. The servers were also very warm and welcoming. They gave us excellent service. I highly recommend this restaurant.

Review №21

2019-01-31 16:43:45

They were so sweet and helpful with our son. Most places sit hot food and sharp objects right in front of our toddler. They brought baby forks and spoons without asking and we never had to apologize when one went on the floor, there was already a replacement on its way. The service was excellent and so was the food. Anyone with a small child know eating out can be tough. This was a real treat for us.

Review №22

2019-10-18 14:06:44

We have been coming here for 16+ years. And its always a go to. Classic -authentic Japanese food w/ amazing service. The staff here is amazing, always friendly & attentive. No club music or sports tv playing as you dine. You can quietly enjoy your meal & company. Yes they do the popular American style sushi rolls, but please keep in mind its not the place you go for rolls covered in eight different sauces or deep fried jalapeños.

Review №23

2019-12-10 16:48:42

First time here, and Im not a frequenter of Japanese cuisine in general nor a fan of sushi; having said that this place was a true joy. The food was hot and delicious, the wait was minimal, the service and staff gracious and courteous. Had the chicken Katsu lunch special, so much food--ate everything and, cliché be true, am hungry 30 minutes later (meaning nothing I ate was heavy and unforgiving.) The photo I took does no justice to the quality of the taste and freshness of the food. I am SO coming back next time in town.

Review №24

2021-01-31 18:20:01

I was looking forward for the good quality sushi dinner but sushi I brought home from this place ( 3 Rainbow rolls) was not fresh at all. It has a weird smell and fish was definitely not fresh, I ate a couple of pieces and the rest went to the trash can. I was expecting much better quality of food for that price they are charging. Very disappointed, not going back to this place.

Review №25

2020-02-03 10:55:11

I have been going here since I was a kid with my family. The food is always good without fail and for the amount of food you get for your money it’s a great deal. The waitresses are always so friendly and sweet and the chefs really know what they’re doing. Best Japanese food in town for sure!!

Review №26

2021-11-25 02:20:26

Since we arrived a few days ago, we found ourselves craving teriyaki. Coming from WA state were teriyaki is as numerous as Starbucks, this small but highly nostalgic & kawaii place served the most oishi food that Ive tasted in awhile.Very authentic chicken katsu, awesome sesame green tea with great flavor, light crispy vegetable tempura, and gyoza were wonderful. The salad and miso was refreshing with authentic seasoning.Will have to try their sukiyaki and sushi rolls next visit.Great environment with the best service given by the ladies!! They treated my service dog with utmost care and also provided mizu for him to drink.Arigato gozaimasu for this grand experience & Thank youA hidden gem in Santa Maria representing Nihon culture and hospitality.

Review №27

2019-12-04 00:51:03

All the servers a wonderful they make you feel like family after a while they Know you they make you feel comfortable and loved. There beautiful ladies. And the food is so good. We love the chicken combo with white meat its the greatest!!!!!: I highly recommend this place!!!😃

Review №28

2019-09-09 02:45:13

Its been 2 yrs since i posted a review for ichiban. nothing has change in the quality of the food, the staff are like family now. We eat there as often as possible sometime 2 times in one day. I have traveled out of the area and found some other sushi places like in Bakersfield and definitely a Dive. If you are a real true sushi foodie then you can recognize good fish.

Review №29

2023-05-12 20:49:34

Katy was the best server! Love this place definitely recommend 😊

Review №30

2017-08-17 22:48:31

I have been to lots of sushi restaurants and the are good but Ichiban is by far the best. You can tell that the fish is fresh. They use just the right amount of sauce that enhances the flavor of the raw fish instead of hiding it. I dont eat the rolls often but the shirashi bowls are awesome. All the staff is friendly and make you feel at home. The sushi chef Brian and Santo are awesome. I highly recommend this place

Review №31

2016-12-13 17:09:31

Very nice atmosphere. Enjoyable music. Staff is very friendly. I ordered the nabeyaki udon. It came with steamed rice and tempura. The meal was outstanding. The broth and vegetables in the udon was delicious. The tempura was crisp and fluffy. The tempura dipping sauce was very good. When I asked for a container for the sauce to take home. The staff gave me warm sauce from the kitchen which was very nice of them to do. Will be returning soon to try out more of their menu and enjoy the vibes.

Review №32

2023-06-30 05:21:03

Waitress was outstanding Kala was her name

Review №33

2021-07-20 14:40:20

Ive been eating here for years. The staff are wonderful and the food is delicious and bountiful. Im happy they returned after the pandemic.

Review №34

2021-08-28 01:33:22

The combination dinner is a good value. The ladies provide good service. The place is a little small. It can be a little loud at times. Well go back.

Review №35

2019-06-20 00:34:46

Server was so nice. Excellent quality of food and service. Parking was difficult around dinner time because of the gym nearby but totally worth driving around to find a spot and walk there. 10/10 would eat there again.

Review №36

2022-09-01 01:11:01

Absolutely love this place!! Food is phenomenal and the service is even better! I can’t recommend it enough!

Review №37

2021-04-17 01:14:42

We LOVE the welcoming atmosphere at Ichiban!!! Are FAVORITE are the Chicken Katsu( lightly breaded thin chicken breast), Chicken or Steak Teriyaki combinations. The combination comes with small salad, sm tempura, your entree and a side of steamed rice w/ a bowl of miso soup!!! YUMM!!! DELICIOUS, FRESH and REASONABLY Priced!

Review №38

2021-06-11 04:08:35

Ok first of all i travel alot for work so i get to try new places alot...i ordered the udon noodle dinner..the fried vegis and shrimp were on point...the broth from the udon was not so great very bland...had to add plenty of soy sauce and Siracha not my choice but when i asked for chile paste she said if siracha was ok..Had no choice...Had to take sushi roll to go as it took way to long to come out...We all have different taste buds..that was my experience...

Review №39

2021-05-25 22:19:07

Excellent food. Very friendly employees and Owner. Great choices of items to eat. Will be back again and again .

Review №40

2019-02-22 00:31:44

Great traditional Japanese food. When I eat Japanese I like to eat at restaurants that have Japanese owners. Ichiban and Atari-ya are the only Japanese restuarants I go to. There is one other Japanese owned restaurant in town, but we went there once and didnt like it.

Review №41

2022-02-25 04:51:47

Our favorite Santa Maria Japanese dining spot. With vegan options! Great service and reasonable prices.

Review №42

2022-10-26 06:20:25

Order was for pickup futomaki roll and gyoza. Comfort food for my Sister and me.

Review №43

2020-11-12 01:59:46

We loved this place we had great food and service. My family enjoyed the lunch combinations and rolls.

Review №44

2023-02-17 04:57:10

One of the better sushi joints on the Central Coast! A must visit!

Review №45

2021-07-03 19:59:45

Good service, good quality Sushi and Sasimi!I didnt expect this good quality of Japanese restaurant in Santa Maria, Ca!

Review №46

2021-10-09 18:36:35

Love this place. Great atmosphere and very friendly staff. The food is exceptional!

Review №47

2023-02-15 02:29:03

Since the change in ownership, food quality across the board has dropped.

Review №48

2019-04-23 17:59:36

Food Great, Sercice Excellent.

Review №49

2021-09-19 05:37:53

The food was so tasty and fresh. The service and atmosphere excellent

Review №50

2022-06-29 01:41:18

Not the same since new owners took over not the same quality food and price went up.

Review №51

2020-02-06 21:55:51

Everything was delicious, a bit pricey, but the great customer service makes it worth it!

Review №52

2019-05-07 01:10:13

My favorite for the lunch specials. Ichiban is wonderful never had a plate i didnt wanna lick after i finished it

Review №53

2023-07-14 16:34:03

Good food at a good price

Review №54

2017-06-03 01:25:24

We eat here all the time. Food is delicious and the staff are very friendly and helpful.

Review №55

2017-07-22 23:06:46

Food is okay. They treat employees poorly which is something Ive seen and heard. Hama Sato is way better.

Review №56

2021-12-22 04:08:28

The dinner should come with a tea, and we didn’t get itWe asked for it, and the lady said ok, and till the end, we got nothing.

Review №57

2019-11-13 02:58:21

Food tasted old, and was greasy. Took over an hour to even get our food. Was too expensive too.

Review №58

2021-03-27 00:50:17

Very good Very delicious authentic Japanese food. And very friendly staff.

Review №59

2017-04-08 03:12:05

This place is the best so fresh. The staff is so very nice. Will continue to come back.

Review №60

2017-09-13 23:57:35

Always a serene dining experience. Great food, price and service

Review №61

2023-05-18 19:28:27

Just simply wasnt impressed, wont be back.

Review №62

2021-10-05 02:04:56

Excellent service, tasty food and reasonable prices

Review №63

2021-06-21 16:23:10

The rice tasted funky and the employee walked away as I tried ordering soda :weary:

Review №64

2022-04-09 06:26:19

Expectations exceeded. Good food, friendly Japanese staff.

Review №65

2020-02-02 18:06:09

This restaurant never disappoints us. Excellent service and delicious food.

Review №66

2018-12-01 02:17:03

Amazing sushi, really generous plates. Very gentle and patient waitresses!

Review №67

2019-08-06 01:19:33

Wonderful service. Good food. Would go again.

Review №68

2017-05-04 02:07:39

This is my familys favorite place to eat. Always a great experience.

Review №69

2018-11-13 02:51:46

Good authentic Japanese food. Reasonable prices, big servings, good value.

Review №70

2021-01-02 17:33:13

Love the place. Great food, service, and price.

Review №71

2018-02-27 00:44:00

Best Japanese food in town. Neat little place too!

Review №72

2023-04-15 02:26:32

Best sushi in Santa Maria!

Review №73

2018-12-27 22:23:19

Excellent sushi barGreat and friendly staff.

Review №74

2021-02-21 22:27:09

Sushi was off, old rotten. Nice friendly customer service.

Review №75

2016-03-09 01:23:49

Friendly staff, excellent food and service. Love this place.

Review №76

2020-03-13 15:34:06

Family type setting with Great service and amazing food!

Review №77

2019-03-16 01:17:52

Friendly, very good food which came quickly

Review №78

2017-08-03 21:35:36

Friendly staff, wonderful service and excellent food!!!

Review №79

2015-06-30 01:11:39

BEST RESTAURANT IT IS ALWAYS GOOD AND VERY NICE PLACE.

Review №80

2023-03-09 03:26:40

Best Japanese restaurant in SM

Review №81

2022-02-05 07:23:50

Employees are super nice and food is 🔥

Review №82

2019-11-15 21:27:51

A million light years from close to authentic, and everything tastes bad

Review №83

2019-08-10 21:58:28

My favorite sushi, tempura restaurant in the county!

Review №84

2019-06-10 23:07:44

One of my favorite places to eat.

Review №85

2019-02-11 22:23:26

My favorite place for Japanese food love the tempera

Review №86

2017-07-25 03:37:23

Great service, quality fish.

Review №87

2018-08-09 16:11:11

GREAT ENVIRONMENT AND FOOD IS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING...

Review №88

2020-10-27 03:21:51

Great food, and customer service

Review №89

2019-03-03 04:19:26

Such a great place. Great service

Review №90

2016-02-20 20:37:42

One of the best restaurants around!!

Review №91

2020-01-11 03:54:48

The Ninja roll is delicious!!

Review №92

2016-03-29 19:25:05

Awesome place in Santa Maria.

Review №93

2017-06-28 21:07:46

Always excellent!

Review №94

2020-02-03 23:19:11

Excellent

Review №95

2020-02-15 04:53:17

Always good

Review №96

2018-09-28 14:15:07

Love my sushi

Review №97

2020-01-28 06:29:39

Amazing!!!!

Review №98

2021-03-31 19:26:23

Excellent excellent

Review №99

2019-03-08 12:09:55

My favorite Japanese food restaurant, here you can taste 100% the delicious flavor of the original Japanese food, beautiful place, family atmosphere, all the staff very friendly, fast service, and the delicious food is always a pleasure to go to at lunch time or have a delicious dinner

Review №100

2021-05-03 14:30:54

Everything is happening, what I dont like. The owner of the restaurant doesnt have her mask on, she has luxury in her piocha.

Review №101

2017-07-04 05:20:02

The ingredients are fresh and authentic.

Review №102

2022-04-17 19:53:32

Excellent flavor