Insider Pages Reviews for Oba Sushi Izakaya

4 Stars: yum (by Megan Y.)

Megan Y. — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 22:07:00 GMT

The sushi here is delicious. I want to say sushi is one of my favorite things, and this place is one of my favorite places to go to. I love coming here every time i go home

5 Stars: Best Sushi in Pasadena (by nrjope)

nrjope — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 01:00:00 GMT

This place is exceptional, second only to Sushi Nozawa. As all you sushi connoisseurs know, that is a true honor. Chef Alfonso is a true artist; I highly recommend sitting at the sushi bar and watch him work his magic. Ask Alfonso for recommendations; he will not disappoint. Unlike most sushi places that operate on a budget at the fish market, owner Kunche gives him carte blanche to pick the very best. The staff are also very friendly and inviting, and make you feel immediately at home.

5 Stars: Fantastic sushi place without going to Old town Pasadena. (by lachica74)

lachica74 — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 02:00:00 GMT

there is a 15% off coupon on the citysearch page, offer ends 11/28/08. Great incentive to try this place. You will not be disappointed!

Location is in South Pasadena. Fair Oaks Ave/Glen Arm.

The service at OBA was very friendly, waitress very knowledgeable regarding menu and recommendations, the restaurant has an area where you can watch sports and another area for a more quiet dinner. I have two small children, perfect environment to take kids. The restaurant decor is simple, clean, modern. This is no dump or "hole in the wall". Dress is casual. Great place to take friends that don't want to get dressed up. Perfect for all ages.

I love the concept of "pub" or "tapas" like style, you can try a variety of food. Portions are fair. The food is very tender, full of flavor, high quality fish and freshness.
I had an Echigo beer, never had one, but was recommended. Delicious, smooth.
Things I tried... Miso soup: super chunky tofu, large portions of green onions/seaweed. Miso glazed cod: by far my favorite, tender, tender, tender, superb! Stuffed shiitake mushroom: pops with flavor, with slight crunchiness. Asian short rib: must have! The best special roll to try is the TNT roll.
I love that I live nearby. This has been my perfect friday/saturday dinner spot.

4 Stars: Great Sushi Super Friendly Perfectly Priced (by wifeandmommyof2)

wifeandmommyof2 — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 02:00:00 GMT

Visited for the first time over the weekend. Kunche, the owner is super friendly and made us feel so welcomed. Loved the appetizers. Albacore w/ garlic and soy was my favorite! This is definetely a word of mouth place as they are in a plaza that I didn't even know existed - and I'm from the area. Although the main entrees weren't bad - I would definitely stick to the sushi & sashimi.

5 Stars: YUM! Fresh sushi, delicious food, good sake and friendly service. (by stacycats)

stacycats — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 02:00:00 GMT

We were very pleased when Oba opened. We'd been looking for a new sushi restaurant since the decline of our favorite place. This is now our sushi place. I agree 100% with awabi's review. The only thing omitted was mention of the warm and friendly service. Eating here has turned into a weekly habit. Give it a try. You won't be sorry.

5 Stars: Best sushi and izakaya place ever! (by awabi)

awabi — Sun, 11 May 2008 02:00:00 GMT

If you are looking for a place for fresh fish and sushi, this is the place. From their tuna, tempura, teriyaki to their california roll everything is prepared and served fresh. Their tempura is crunchy with not too much batter. Not like other places, where they have heavy and thick batter. Oba's quality and quantity is perfect! The izakaya is like a tapas appetizer portion kind of food, they have all sorts of variety and always something new and interesting to try. I have been there twice in one week. Not one disappointment yet. They also have my favorite beer, echigo, a traditional japanese beer which comes straight from japan. Try it. O my! all i can say is go try it out and you'll love it. I did and i love it. I am sure going back again and again and again!