Shiro - Walnut Creek

East Bay residents are quite lucky to have an authentic and unique Japanese Izakaya as in Tozai Izakaya. The main focus is Japanese BBQ esp Yakitori. It also has the typical rice dish. Waggu beef is served on a hot stone BBQ style and can be v pricey. It also features whole fish sashimi from Japan. A decent dinner for a small family can cost a hundred dollar or more so it is not for a bargain meal. But if you want a more authentic Japanese Izakaya with interesting dishes, this is the right place to go. The servers are super attentive. The food quality is always good. After coming for so many times, it never disappoints me.

Theur miso-soaked cod is to die for (didn't take a good photo of it but PLEASE don't miss out on this juicy, aromatic dish). Love a restaurant that makes an effort to bring authenticity to the menu. The owner is one nice lady. She's also the owner of Ramen Hiroshi!!!! The drinks are delightful and Tokyo infused. The skewer selection is extensive and hearty. We will definitely come back for their fresh-fish-from-Japan Tuesdays

The food was excellent. The fish was extremely fresh, and the seasoning on everything was perfect. Closest traditional izakaya experience you're going to get in Walnut Creek for sure, maybe the bay area. Our service was also great. We will for sure be back.

So i was going to stop at their ramen restaurant but it was temporarily closed for renovations but had a sign with tozais address in the window. After a small walk i found tozai and wow is this place amazing. The place itself is super clean and bright, very modern with a clasic twist. There are sushi restaurants and there and ramen restaurants but this is a Japanese restaurant. From the vegan options to the pork belly to the house made kimchee everything was amazing. Tldr this place is hella dope. Go now! Caution tho the menu will seem different then what you are used to but just read it and start ordering stuff. This stuff is good. Also side note they have a good selection of beer wine sake and even some japanese style cocktails...oh sorry gotta go my order or shishitou peppers and pork belly just hit the table. Seriously tho tlrd> this place is hella good

Quickly becoming my favorite Japanese in the area. Very authentic (no fake sushi rolls, just quality fish) Lunch time has limited menu, dinner time serves yakitori and other grilled items, different donburi, and fresh sashimi. We often get the whole fish sashimi; the bones are fried afterwards for a yummy, crunchy snack. Service staff and chefs are super friendly, many are actually Japanese.