Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively yakitori-focused Japanese spot with friendly service and fair prices; creative skewers and teishoku sets shine, but occasional inconsistency and authenticity nitpicks appear.
Ichiban delivers solid neighborhood izakaya dining with strong food quality anchored by excellent yakitori and teriyaki, paired with attentive, friendly service. However, inconsistent execution on busy nights—lukewarm items and variable sauce application—prevents grade A territory. The colorful, thoughtful decor creates warm atmosphere without destination-level appeal, making this a reliable local favorite rather than a regional standout.
A small izakaya in Guillotière where the room feels warm and bustling and staff keep things friendly even when it is packed. Reviewers talk about colorful decor that nods to pop Japanese culture and note speedy service most nights, though waits can stretch when the room is full. One diner put it simply: "the skewers were the highlight and the price felt fair." In the kitchen, the focus is yakitori and teishoku sets rather than fireworks. The cooking leans comforting and familiar: grilled meats, teriyaki, katsu curry, and a broad skewer list. Skewers, teriyaki chicken, and miso soup draw the most praise; takoyaki and katsu curry get mixed notes, often about sauce quantity or temperature. Expect solid execution over showiness, with a few cross-cuisine items that make the menu broader than purist Japanese. Families do well here. Multiple reviews mention kids enjoying the meal, and the menu has truly kid-friendly picks like teriyaki chicken, katsu curry, rice, udon, and mochi. Vegetarians and vegans can build a meal from tofu, veg yakitori, rice, and a vegan "unadon" made with aubergine.
Area: Energetic, multicultural corridor near universities and bars; casual dining hub with late-evening foot traffic.
Safety: Generally safe with lively streets; typical urban bustle, well-lit main roads.
Nearby: Close to Rhône riverbanks, tram/metro routes, student housing and small shops.
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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