Ichiriki Japanese Nabe Restaurant Westridge was a nice surprise. Ichiriki is a nabe or hotpot style cooking. Located in the Westridge Shopping Center, an area with great eating places My husband and I just visited Tony Roma's and have been to Makino Chaya's several times. We usually go to the Ichiriki's Piikoi location but decided to check out the Westridge location. We went early with the in-laws at 5:30 pm. It's 25% off for seniors on Mondays thru Fridays until 6:00pm. What a great deal!
The host and manager greeted us as soon as we walked through the door and asked if we wanted to seat Japanese tatami style or regular seating. We chose regular chairs since we were with our older parents. Tatami style looks like old traditional flooring but you don't have to cross your legs as the floor is sunken in. It's really neat!
The appetizers were discounted due to happy hour. We ordered the poke, calamari and edamame (soybeans). Everything tasted fresh. we then moved on to the meal.
First you choose your pot. We like it there because the pots are separated and you don't have to share your portion. My husband is a heavy eater!!!
Second, you choose your broth, we all chose the Ichiki (shoyu base). They have several varieties.
Third, you choose your set. Type of vegetables and meat. We all chose the USDA Ribeye Chanko for $24.00. Remember, it's 25% off for seniors, 59 and under.
Fourth, you choose to finish your meal with ramen or udon. My husband and I chose udon and my in-laws had noodles.
After the meal, we all agreed that we were completely full and no room for dessert. It's a great harmony of flavors, fresh vegetables, seafood, meat and flavorful broth . No grease and oils and very healthy. Our neighboring booth of seniors asked to take home the broth. Delicious and great idea!
The wait staff is very friendly and attentive to filling your glass with water and seems to work on a teamwork style. Any staff member passing by will pick up empty plates and check on you. I personally like this and wish more places adopted this working style.
I would give them 5 stars but had to give them four stars because the parking lot was full and we had to drop off the in-laws and park downstairs, Nothing wrong with the restaurant but because of our overall experience which is not their fault.
We definitely recommend them and will return next time, to try sitting tatami style next to the window to enjoy the view! read more