Fish and Bird Sousaku Izakaya is preparing to close its doors after a 6.5-year run. The Japanese restaurant on Shattuck Avenue in Berkeley will close on June 14. The owner cited retirement and other factors behind the closure.
Fish and Bird Sousaku Izakaya Will Say Goodbye in June
California-based Fish and Bird Sousaku Izakaya is known for its Japanese-inspired menu and cocktail program.
The restaurant shared the heartbreaking news of its closure on social media. The owner of the restaurant thanked the community and wrote, “Fish & Bird will be closing our doors. Our last day of service is Sunday, June 14th. Thank you so much for your support over the past 6 1/2 years.”
In the post, the owner cited, “There are various reasons for the closure, but it’s been a tough 6 1/2 years, and I’ve decided to semi-retire.”
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For its final weeks of operation, the restaurant informed that it would remain open from Thursdays through Mondays. The owner encouraged locals to visit before the closure.
Story Behind the Japanese Restaurant
Founded in 2020, the Fish and Bird Sousaku Izakaya were operated by Yoshika Hedberg and co-owner and executive chef Asuka Uchida. The duo previously worked together under Chef Chikara Ono.
Currently, the restaurant is operated by Yoshika Hedberg. The menu features sophisticated traditional Japanese items prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Recommended dishes on the menu are Chicken Karaage, Chicken Katsu, and Sashimi Moriawase.
Following the closure announcement on Instagram, several fans of the restaurant expressed disappointment. “Fish and Bird brought such original, unique, and authentic Japanese cuisine to Berkeley. I was always delighted to eat there. O Tsukare Sama Deshita. And Thank You for so many delicious meals,” commented a fan.
As Fish and Bird restaurant enters the final chapter, the team hopes to celebrate with the local community.
