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A Taste of Japan in Irvine: Izakaya Osen

Since opening in Irvine in 2022, Izakaya Osen has brought the energy, artistry, and soul of a traditional Japanese izakaya to Orange County—while elevating the experience with pristine ingredients, refined technique, and warm hospitality.

At the helm is Chef Damon Cho, a Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef whose background includes time at Nobu, Tao, and Four Seasons Hotel. After launching his first restaurant in San Francisco in 2008, Chef Cho opened the original Izakaya Osen in Silver Lake in 2017. The Osen Group now includes locations in Silver Lake, Irvine, and the omakase-focused Omakase by Osen—also in Silver Lake—with future expansions planned for San Diego’s InterContinental Hotel in 2025 and Las Vegas in 2027.

With a deep respect for Japanese culinary traditions, Chef Cho and his team serve sushi, kushiyaki skewers, and contemporary Japanese fusion dishes made with premium ingredients imported daily from Japan. Their goal? To offer more than a meal—an unforgettable dining experience shared among friends and family.

At Izakaya Osen Irvine, expect beautifully plated sashimi, inventive hand rolls, and signature bowls like the Toro Uni Bowl and Miso Crab Salmon. Each dish is crafted with meticulous care and served in a sleek, modern space designed for lingering.

True to the spirit of an izakaya, the menu invites sharing, pairing, and savoring. And with an impressive selection of sake and Japanese whiskies, the experience is equal parts celebration and comfort.

Whether you're stopping in for a skewer and a cold beer or indulging in a full sushi spread, Izakaya Osen captures the essence of Japan—right in the heart of Irvine.

Izakaya Osen – Irvine
2000 Main St., Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92614
(949) 308-4290
Open daily: 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m., 5–10 p.m.

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