Welcome to Izakaya Jin

“ Fantastic and intimate setting for authentic Japanese tapas, mains, and sushi. We visited while staying in Ventura due to a wildfire evacuation and were craving some Japanese food, only to be disappointed by most offerings in the area. But as soon as we saw the menu and the 'now hiring' sign posted in both Englishh and Japanese, we knew we were in for a treat. This restaunt is an Izakaya, a type of restaurant often found in Japan where plates and mains are served in a comfortable bar like restraunt, perfect for a drink and bento box at the bar, or a family night out where dishes are shared around the table. Keep in mind that this is a Japanese restaurant opposed to a standalone sushi bar, and the wide range of offerings, many of which are hard or impossible to find in the area, make this a very unique and compelling addition for anyone who likes great Japanese food. They have a happy hour from 5:00 - 6:30 every night featuring some afforable plates, and the edamame and fried pork gyoza hit the spot, well cooked and generous portions for the price. But the real star of the night for us was the sushi. We were impressed by the attention to detail and quality of ingredients, such as how the red dragon roll was topped with bluefin tuna instead of the cheaper fish used at most other restraunts. The quality of ingredients was a running theme. I had the Tsufu Don, which came topped with a great spread of fish, all incredibly fresh. Uni was deep gold and sweet, tuna was fresh and tender, and ikura was wonderfully seasoned and rich. The salmon avocado and Mama Mia rolls were fantastic, too, with perfectly cooked rice and great presentation. It's been a long time since I've seen salmon so fresh that it's still vibrantly orange. Service was wonderful too, and we were welcomed into the restraunt, making us feel right at home. We left satisfied, already thinking about returning before we left. We feel this is probably the best Japanese restraunt between Carp and Thousand Oaks, and you won't be disappointed if you give it a try for yourself, especially while its easy to get in before it blows up. ”

“ Every dish I tried was exceptional, the atmosphere is cozy, the staff and our host Gabe Lewis went above and beyond with the service. Again, the sashimi and everything we ordered was melt in your mouth delicious. When I visit Oxnard again it will be on my return list. ”

“ Sushi was absolutely fresh. Food was delicious. Service was friendly and prompt. We met the owner Jin. A very warm and humble man. We will definitely be going back and recommending this place to everyone who wants delicious authentic Japanese food. ”

“ Really good Japanese restaurant!! One of the closest experiences to a traditional Japanese izakaya in the U.S. The atmosphere and menu really capture the spirit of a true izakaya. The food is excellent and priced reasonably, which is hard to find these days. The sushi isn’t the highlight—but that’s more about the fish quality available in the U.S. at a reasonable price than the chef’s skills. They clearly do their best with what they have, and it shows. That said, the rest of the dishes are genuinely great and well worth it. If you’re looking for authentic flavors and a relaxed vibe, this spot delivers. ”

“ Wonderful sushi... This guy wholesale uni (sea urchin) all around the country, so his restaurant never runs out! I was shocked how beautiful the desert was (see photo) ”

“ This is an amazing place. We just expeсted to have a great time and enjoy medium fresh sushi, but this places food is over the roof..I did make a photo of my partners Ramen, and all forget to make a photo of mine, because food were delicious! Narikin sushi and LGBT sushi were AMAZING! Strongly recommend. ”

“ I went during the month of June when they were running a promotion. My only regret was not visiting thrice that month. The dishes were so delicious. Every bite I took had to be savored to experience each flavor profile. I was enjoying my food so much I forgot to take more pictures to share what works of art they were. This restaurant does not disappoint and I can’t wait to come back! ”

“ Amazing food at a great price! Everything tasted fresh and authentic, and the vibes were just right. You can really tell they care about the quality and experience. Definitely a spot I’ll be coming back to! ”