Kiraku Berkeley is a Japanese restaurant that aims to deliver an authentic izakaya experience to its customers. Unlike other Japanese restaurants in America, Kiraku replicates the modern izakaya style that is popular in Japan. They opened in July 2011 with the goal of spreading the wonders of this style of eating to as many people as possible.

The name Kiraku, which means to relax, perfectly encapsulates their mission: to provide a space where guests can unwind from the stress of daily life. When you dine at Kiraku, you will be greeted with a warm oshibori towel, setting the tone for a delightful meal. The chef, Daiki Saito, has a background in French cooking and a passion for izakaya-style dining.

He opened Kiraku with his wife Sanae, aiming to harmonize the culture, food, and style of Berkeley with his own experience and Japanese flavors. Kiraku also offers a unique bottle keep system, allowing regular customers to order larger quantities and keep unfinished sake and shochu for future visits. Moreover, they serve Asahi draft beer imported from Japan, providing a creamy foam similar to that of draft beer in Japan.

Daiki holds a Kikizake-shi license, which is equivalent to a sake sommelier, and many of the stoneware used in the restaurant is homemade. Located at 2566 B Telegraph Ave, Berkeley, CA, Kiraku Berkeley invites you to experience the joy of izakaya dining