Shimbashi Izakaya

AsianOwner Verified

About

Shimbashi Izakaya is an Asian-owned, women-owned Japanese restaurant and sake bar at 1555 Camino Del Mar #201, Del Mar, CA 92014, located on the terrace level of Del Mar Plaza with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. The name translates to "New Bridge" in Japanese, reflecting the restaurant's mission to connect San Diego diners with authentic izakaya culture, the casual pub-style dining experience found throughout Tokyo's cosmopolitan neighborhoods. The menu rotates with the seasons, following the Japanese concept of "shun," which prioritizes ingredients at their peak freshness. Fresh sushi and sashimi anchor the offerings, with the Tuna Otoro, Assorted Sashimi Appetizer, and the signature King's Roll earning loyal followings. One floor below in the same Del Mar Plaza building, Tamarindo Del Mar serves Latin-fusion cuisine, making the plaza a destination for back-to-back dining experiences in completely different culinary traditions. The Ceviche Shimbashi served in a martini glass with wonton chips brings a creative twist, while the Chef's Tezukuri Gyoza has been endorsed by notable San Diego chefs who dine here on their nights off. An extensive sake selection pairs with small plates in true izakaya fashion, and Japanese beer rounds out the drink menu. Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 5 to 6 p.m. with specials on sake and appetizers. Lunch is served weekdays from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and weekends from noon to 3 p.m., while dinner runs nightly until 8:30 p.m. on weekdays and 9 p.m. on weekends. The intimate interior features a sushi bar, rustic wooden tables, and a compact layout that encourages a relaxed, unhurried meal. The outdoor patio is the preferred seat for sunset dining, offering one of the best ocean-view dining experiences in Del Mar. Just down the hill toward the beach, Jake's Del Mar provides an oceanfront seafood alternative for visitors exploring the Camino Del Mar restaurant corridor. Reservations are recommended, particularly for dinner and weekend patio seating. Catering party trays featuring sushi and entree selections are available for private events, business meetings, and weddings, and self-parking in the Del Mar Plaza garage includes one hour free.