O Chame   

Maybe we just ordered wrong, or maybe they had a "bad nite," but when a friend and I recently had dinner there, the food was terrible!! I haven't had a meal that bad (anywhere, much less in Berkeley) for a very long time! I had a pork with noodles dish: the pork was older than I am, the broth tasteless and the rest mediocre at best. My friend's meal was just as bad.

Quiet setting, perfect, no exquisite food. Reasonable prices and very unique -- especially compared to the generically mediocre Ginger Island nearby. Was impressed with the service and atmosphere but even more impressed with the food -- it was like visiting an excellent REAL Japanese restaurant in Japan without the flight. We intend to go back regularly to taste exquisitely delicate and balanced blend of spices, light sauces, and wonderful fish and appetizers! A must for anyone seriously interested in quality food, especially at a more than reasonable cost.

This is truly one of my favorite restaurants for remarkably well-prepared food. The portobello pancake is a must-have, and I think their sashimi is about the best I've ever had. While the soups are good (especially the smoked trout), I would recommend the entree specials. They are always perfectly cooked and delicious. The atmosphere is lovely -- but a bit too quiet for my taste (perfect for the food, though).

I thought it was very mediocre.