Itsuki - Goleta

Initially, upon opening, the storefront and locale did not make sense. My first visit was several years ago. With longevity one wonders if it's that good. A ret... read more Initially, upon opening, the storefront and locale did not make sense. My first visit was several years ago. With longevity one wonders if it's that good. A return last year had me trying their Axxess deal of BOGO appetizers/rolls/entrees. The Itsuki roll is really something to brag about. I highly recommend. Their salmon teriyaki is also unique, with a couple filets, heirloom lettuce most likely from the farmers market and a traditional carrot/onion/ginger dressing. The chef speaks fluent Japanese, Spanish and English. Always there, always attentive.

A hidden gem in Goleta for delicious sushi, run by a local family: It's located near the Goleta DMV and the old appliance store, and it's definitely worth the t... read more A hidden gem in Goleta for delicious sushi, run by a local family: It's located near the Goleta DMV and the old appliance store, and it's definitely worth the trip if you're downtown. I visited twice with a friend for lunch, and I was completely satisfied both times! We tried the amiyaki beef bento box, the tempura shrimp roll, a side of teriyaki chicken, sake, and a Sapporo. Thank you for the wonderful meals on both occasions and for the excellent service; the staff is incredibly kind and attentive.

The ramen and soup at this restaurant are quite good. Whenever I visit, I typically order either the spicy seafood ramen or the beef curry ramen. This time, I o... read more The ramen and soup at this restaurant are quite good. Whenever I visit, I typically order either the spicy seafood ramen or the beef curry ramen. This time, I opted for the beef curry ramen, and it was definitely flavorful. However, I was a bit disappointed by the small amount of beef; they only included a few tiny pieces.

Delicious bento box. Tasty tempura. Sunamono was good but small for the price. Service was friendly and fast. read more Delicious bento box. Tasty tempura. Sunamono was good but small for the price. Service was friendly and fast.

We ordered food here to support local businesses, but we won't be returning. The seaweed salad was $9.50, and it tasted like something from Costco. The shoyu ra... read more We ordered food here to support local businesses, but we won't be returning. The seaweed salad was $9.50, and it tasted like something from Costco. The shoyu ramen, priced at $17, came with just one thin slice of pork belly (see attached photo) and half of a hard-boiled egg??? It wasn't even a traditional ramen egg that's soft-boiled and marinated in soy sauce and mirin; it was just a plain, hard-boiled egg! This place feels like a scam. Do yourself a favor and avoid it!