I had a quiet dinner, to celebrate my home surviving the Jesusita Fire in Santa Barbara. I cannot say the same for the property, as parts of both my front and back garden burned, but I am very grateful for the metal roof covering my cottage, and firefighters who kept the flames from my place.

Yoko, the woman in front, gave me a hug and some sake. I proceeded to have an eight course omakase.

Omakase #1 – Sashimi of flying fish and shimaji mackerel.

Omakase #2 – Shimaji mackerel sashimi in sauce.

Omakase #3 – Chicken, lotus root, mountain potato and carrots.

Omakase #4 – Tender pork belly in soy broth. Portion was generous, took most home as leftovers.

Omakase #5 – Charred prawn with curried vegetables and scallops. Loved the flavors.

Omakase #6 – Halibut with rice and smoky flavored broth. The hot broth slightly poached the fish. Delicious.

Omakase #7 – Housemade egg tofu.

Omakase #8 – Ground black sesame pudding with whipped cream and strawberries.

Plus, Yoko’s sake.

As always, service was great, very personable. The bill is best not revealed, but it was a deal for the quantity and creativity.  This was my first time dining “with myself” at Kobachi, and I’d normally bring something to read, but I had nothing. It was no matter, the food came to the table consistently and my attention never waned.

I also finally had an opportunity to talk with Yoko about my omakase requests. She confirmed the chef was happy to do it – consistent with the tradition that omakase is considered an honor of the chef’s.  This was not the intent of the business in general, though, so it is best to make this request when the kitchen has time to put the additional thought and creativity in custom dishes. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays are best, when they are not so busy. I do know that attempts to request omakase during prime dining times on Friday and Saturday are either rightfully refused, or service is understandably slow. I am all in support of having the best strategy to obtain good food, so I will do my part to work within the best windows of opportunity. Please do the same!

I am so happy to have a place like Kobachi in my town.

Kobachi Izakaya Dining
4141 State St
Santa Barbara, CA 93110
www.kobachiizakaya.com