Musashi: Delightfully affordable Japanese hospitality in Berkeley

Musashi

Musahshi is a Japanese kitchen operating in Berkeley, California. The menu offers real variety all the while sticking to the greater category of Japanese food, from many types of sushi and sashimi to noodles, teriyaki plates, and onigiri. The food comes out attractively plated and thoughtfully seasoned. They balance Japanese culinary tradition with affordability, making great Japanese meals in a delightful, budget-friendly way and bringing Japanese hospitality to Berkeley for prices you can afford.

The dining room is very cute and has a Japanese feel that I really like. I love the old Japanese posters hanging on the wall; they’re nostalgic and perfectly set the mood for a traditional Japanese meal. It’s a really fun place to eat because it isn’t too formal, and it feels Japanese in a cozy, homey, classic way. It’s just off Shattuck on Dwight Way, but once you’re inside, you feel removed from Berkeley, and your focus shifts to the great Japanese flavors in your meal, as you surround yourself with reminders of Japanese culture.

The meal came with a complimentary warm cup of green tea, which was a lovely traditionally Japanese touch that set the stage for the great meal that was to come. I wasn't sure what to order off the large menu, but ultimately, I enjoyed the hearty miso soup, the crunchy-skinned fried gyoza, the crisp nori and the seasoned rice in the onigiri, as well as the beef udon, which might have been the star. The noodles were mild and refreshing, paired with salty beef; they came in a bright and savory light broth with some Japanese pepper on the side that could be added to taste. I love udon, and order it all the time, but this serving felt special because it was so refreshing and simple, yet complete and perfectly prepared.

The service was respectful and didn't hold back about potential allergens and cross-contamination. The kitchen made each dish carefully but did not take a particularly long time to do so. We enjoyed chatting in the comfy dining room as they made our food; everything came at a reasonable pace and with a friendly attitude.The people working there seemed to have actual pride in what they were doing, and although they were attentive to us, they did a good job giving us space to enjoy our meal. 

Thus, the food was good, and the environment was great! I would not hesitate to come back, as Musashi has proven to be a very reputable, good restaurant with a nicely varied menu full of authentic Japanese options. I honestly can’t think of anything bad to say about this one….