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Izakaya Meiji Co. image

Izakaya Meiji Co.

Restaurant Bar Cocktail bar Japanese izakaya restaurant

Japanese small plates, craft cocktails & whiskeys offered in a stylish publike setting with a patio. People often mention good, dish, experience, drinks, rice, fried, small, Japanese, time, ordered,


Address

345 Van Buren St, Eugene, OR 97402, United States

Website

izakayameiji.com

Contact

+1 541-505-8804

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.50 (1.1K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

Permanently closed.

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: good (11) dish (10) experience (10) drinks (10) rice (10) fried (9) small (8) Japanese (8) time (8) ordered (7)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 4/5 Jess N. 2 years ago on Google
    The food here was incredible. It's a "small plates" type of restaurant. Our group of three ordered roughly 8 items total and several cocktails so we really got a feel for the menu. Everything was delicious and well appointed. The server was very informative. The only reason I'm not giving a full 5 stars is of the main items we ordered was completely forgotten about (which is fine, things happen) but when asked about it our server played it off like it was just how long the dish took to make despite a table next to us having sat after, ordered after and recieving the same dish 10 minutes before we even asked where ours was. We would have just appreciated a direct "I forgot and we'll get that out asap" than being a bit talked down to about cook times. The dish was a main course for one of our party members and the first item of the night they ordered. Just a bit frustrating. 🤷🏻‍♀️
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Lora L. 1 year ago on Google
    Came about half hr into opening and got outside seating right away. Was tucked in the corner at a nice table in the dog friendly covered seating area, situated by a heating lamp. Well spaced out seating and friendly waitstaff. Ordering was prompt and so were the dishes. It was certainly an interesting choice to have straight up western music at a Japanese type eatery, but go with the flow, it didn't bother me any, lol. The food was delicious, we def got full! Overall a good experience. A great option for vegetarians and they have a good number of gluten free dishes too (best friend has celiac).
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gabrielle F. 2 years ago on Google
    It was our first time here, we had a wonderful experience! All of the food was amazing, the drinks were fantastic (thank you Austin!!) We will definitely be coming back each season for more fresh delicious food! ❤️ We really respected the restaurant's decision to only let vaccinated people sit inside, it made us feel very safe to be (finally) close to others.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Nathan D. 2 years ago on Google
    Great food and service! I had the spicy udon dish they had and it was super tasty! Only reason i put three stars is because they required proof of vaccination and that’s pretty unethical.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Kartik R. 2 years ago on Google
    4/5 Fried Ika - fried calamari served with a wasabi Mayo. The squid tasted fresh and wasn’t over cooked. Pork gyoza - fried potstickers stuffed with pork and veggies. Buta Kimchi - probably our favourite! Pork belly stir fried with some kimchi served with a side of rice. Fried Nasu - fried eggplant topped with togarashi and doused in soy sauce. Not great tbh. Iwakuni Air Station Curry - minced chicken curry served with lotus roots and picked onions and half a soft boiled egg. Filling dish but flavours in the curry were pretty tame. Never had this before but maybe that’s just how it is meant to taste! Yuzu pie - incredible dessert similar to a key lime pie but subbed with yuzu instead. The custard had a pleasant yuzu tang that we loved!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Logan S. 1 year ago on Google
    Great food, great drinks and a friendly staff! Portions can be a little small for a shared dish, or what you pay but the dishes themselves are excellent! Highly reccomend the onigiri.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Daniel S. 6 months ago on Google
    This place is overhyped, so go with lower expectations. It is one of Eugene's trendy locations so prepare to wait before getting seated. The food was good but loaded with salt; I expect seasoning, not just excessive salt when dropping over $100 for a dinner for two. Overall the food is slightly above mid, drinks are very good, and the venue is packed a little too tightly for my liking. Worth going to, but don't believe the hype.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Bones 7 months ago on Google
    I'd like to give them a 4.5-4.8 Authentic Japanese food, without the authentic "delicately balanced" flavors. The atmosphere alone, makes this place so amazing. It's the only bar I like, because it doesn't actually feel like a bar. It somehow felt really familiar and relaxing, even though I've never been there. *The food portions look small, but they can be surprisingly filling. It's also right across from "slice" in case you or your friends happen to drink too much, and you're craving greasy "drunk food". (Not that it happened to me) I visited late at night, so I got to try a few items from their late-night menu. The food was interesting, it had some authentic Japanese dishes, but the way it was cooked felt like it was an American cook. The ingredients were high quality, but the cooking process lacked some of the careful attention to detail that Japanese cooks put into their food. The flavors were rich, but they weren't as refined, delicate, or vibrant as restaurants in Japan. It still had an American flavor, so it's interesting to see that. (Why I marked down a star) The food is still excellent though, and it was incredibly filling despite the small portions. Granted, I've only tried the curry udon, fried rock-fish bites, and salmon riceball so far. *** They serve fried rock-fish. Idk if it's real rock-fish because I've never tried it, but I mean it was tasty. **I didn't hate the curry udon, but it also wasn't my jam. I asked for a side of rice so I could finish it w/ the rice. (There weren't many noodles) The drink menu was really cool looking, with an imprinted "M" on the cover. It was "low-key" fancy, because the inside didn't try too hard, other than giving you a lot of well-organized variety. Very welcoming and easy to read, despite having a plethora of choices. (Probably over 100 possible drinks) They also had non-alcoholic cocktail options. That was really thoughtful of them. Overall an amazing and welcoming experience. I definitely want to return.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Emma C. 10 months ago on Google
    Honest review from an Asian American: The staff were very friendly and the ambiance was a vibe. The drinks were delicious and we especially loved the seasonal mocktail. The punch was delicious as well! As for the food.... We were the only Asian diners and that should have been an indication of the authenticity of this izakaya. The most flavorful thing about the yakitori (chicken thigh skewer) was the charred bits. They weren't marinated enough. The kimchi chicken fried rice was.... Interesting. The rice was soggy for fried rice and the house made kimchi tasted like the house forgot the fermentation stage. "Kimchi" was more like a mildly salty cabbage. The tuna and avocado cocktail was very salty but the tuna was fresh. We got a miso egg on accident and it was.... Mushy? It is described as a "marinated soft boiled egg" but it was unlike any soft boiled egg I had tried. It was VERY vinegary. Would definitely recommend coming here for the drinks and service, but dinner? You might want to think twice if you're Asian. If you're not, have fun! - 2 California Bay Area Asians
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 J R. 1 year ago on Google
    This restaurant is a local favorite I have not had the chance to explore until recently. I heard there is usually a wait of 10+ minutes, but after we found street parking we didn't have to wait at all! On Saturday August 27th, around dinner time even, we were welcomed right in! The ambiance is very theatrical/cozy/western. I loved the warm lighting, high ceilings and vintage decor. We were seated at the bar and immediately were greeted by the MOST friendly, professional and PATIENT bartender I have ever met. It took some time for our food to come out but when it did it was EVERYTHING we could have wanted!! The veggie onigiri was balanced, light perfection. The tofu skewer was so crisp but yet so silky/melt in your mouth that even this vegetarian didn't want to believe it was real! And finally, after a dry/well balanced bottle of white wine recommended from our bartender, our last dish arrived. The veggie udon noodles were plump, drowning in the most savory, delicious herb/vegetable broth one can imagine! Afterwards I used the restroom which was easy to find and very clean. Our tab was worth every penny, our experience: priceless. If you are looking to treat yourself to excellence, or are going on a date, this venue is the perfect setting!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kusum K. 2 years ago on Google
    The best food in Eugene hands down. Just bummed they won't do take out... Veggie burger is to die for.. actually everything is to die for but then James Bond says there's no time to die.. so let's just eat forever at Izakaya.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gabrielle C. 2 years ago on Google
    Sophisticated but never pretentious. Izakaya manages to welcome you home with the comfort of an old, worn leather sofa. Melting into the old school country (just ask.. they’ll share the playlist) and whiskey cocktails, your palate comes alive with an eclectic blend of Japanese flavors. In the hands of another, a blatant power grab sure to backfire yet it’s seamless. From Miso Shitake Mushrooms and Rock Fish to their inspired Key Lime Pie with goats milk. I’m not sure what just happened but I know I’ll never be the same.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Bri C. 2 years ago on Google
    Has to share our recent experience here at Meiji. It had been awhile since we’ve been but decided to take some friends for dinner with our 3 year old daughter. We read on their website that you needed to have Covid vaccination proof so my husband and I brought ours along. When we got to the door, after a very cold walk from our distant parking spot- we were turned away due to our little girl not having a vaccination card. She is unable to get the vaccine since she’s under 5. There was absolutely no logic in this decision. No where on the website does it say no children (which would be recommended since you aren’t allowing children). We were told to wait outside while we tried to find a solution. Since we couldn’t and shouldn’t have to find last minute day care to eat dinner, we went to another restaurant . We will NEVER be back to Meiji. Not only were they imposing rules that are impossible to follow, they were not nice about it. We understand the current Covid situation and tried our best to follow their rules. They did not care about us or our business. Would not recommend you waste your time at this place. So sad.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Stephanie B. 2 years ago on Google
    I was really looking forward to visiting Izakaya after hearing so many good things from friends and coworkers, but was sorely disappointed. The waitress was rude and rushed us through the whole meal, to the point that we skipped dessert just to get out of there quicker. As for the food itself, everything sounded good on paper but each dish I ate was oversalted. I was really looking forward to the experience and now I'm not likely to go back at all.

  • 5/5 Bri M. 5 months ago on Google
    Izakaya Meiji is one of the best restaurants in town. I'm devastated by the news of it's closing, but happy for the times I've gotten to experience it. My suggestion-- Go visit before you lose the opportunity to. Thank's for all the wonderful times, Meiji crew!

  • 5/5 Julia D. 5 months ago on Google
    This place is refreshing in so many ways. We absolutely loved everything here! Highly recommend giving it a try! All of the Onigiri are so good and just everything js so unique! Service was awesome and such a comfortable vibe. Everything you order comes as ready which makes for a slower more enjoyable and real dining experience. Didn’t even try the whiskies… all the fish is so fresh and food is so good! So so glad we made it here! Can’t wait to come again.

  • 5/5 Adam W. 8 months ago on Google
    Across the board high quality. The food is carefully curated and prepared for a journey through your taste buds. The menu rotates to account for the freshest ingredients. The dining room is a little tight but it still has a romantic feel to it. A must visit if you want great Japanese food in Eugene, OR!

  • 4/5 Jeremiah L. 8 months ago on Google
    TLDR: You will love your night at Meiji! I have been to Izakaya Meiji many times through the years, and I can say with confidence that it is a staple of the community. With a virtually unmatched atmosphere, stepping through the door is like entering into a parallel universe. Tall ceilings, dim lighting, and gorgeous woodwork. You feel as if you’re in a Japanese cowboy simulation. Beer served in big frothy mugs, and food that while overpriced, more than gets the job done. Furthermore, they have a great staff full of chic professionals, and with the exception of the occasional detached college student, are extremely friendly and helpful. Their Cowboy Karaoke is legendary, hosted by the inimitable DJ Baby Smooth. Overall, I highly recommend Izakaya Meiji for a fun place to drink, eat, and hang out with friends. I recommend the late-night ramen with a mug of Asahi!

  • 4/5 EL 9 months ago on Google
    Enjoyed the small-plate concept which made sharing appetizers the overall dining theme. I didn't have any of their alcoholic beverages, but it looks like they had quite a variety of sake, spirits, wines, and cocktails. Parking was fairly easy if you don't mind a brief walk. Both indoor and outdoor dining was available.

  • 4/5 My M. 10 months ago on Google
    I am Asian. I like they have small plates food (it hard to find in Eugene). I came many times. Japanese food so good.

  • 5/5 Will Grieve (. 9 months ago on Google
    Fantastic food and atmosphere. It’s often busy, and parking isn’t fantastic, but it’s very much worth the effort. Like I can’t think of another place that offers quality rice balls. The quality of the drinks is also fantastic. Most restaurants you’re paying for the convenience of not having to make it yourself, but here these are truly some drinks you can’t get anywhere else.

  • 5/5 Brandy N. 1 year ago on Google
    Such a delight! Small sharable plates. Everything was amazing. Don't miss the miso egg! They had the best chicken katsu I've ever had and it was in a curry broth with veggies. 100% will go again. We are able to walk right in at 515 on a Wednesday but it filled up while we were there. Incredible house made saki too!

  • 5/5 Jennifer T. 1 year ago on Google
    Delicious small plates, good drinks, excellent service, and fun decor and ambience. “Where East Meets Country Western” perfectly sums it up. We enjoyed the Oakshire Watershed IPA and almost everything we ordered: rockfish karaage (so fresh and crunchy), salmon onigiri, edamame, ebi furai, spicy tuna cocktail, and fries with wasabi mayo. The shiitake burger looked beautiful and tasted fine, but fell apart on the first bite. We had only 25 minutes to eat since minors aren’t permitted after 10pm and we arrived with our kids at 9:35, but it was 100% worth it. We’ll definitely return the next time we’re in Eugene, and maybe come without our kids so we can experience the late night menu.

  • 5/5 Patricia M. 1 year ago on Google
    Wow! What a fun spot! Lots of interesting and delicious small plates. I also got the same flight which was delightful. I didn't even get a photo of my favorite dish which was the spinach goma ae. That sesame sauce they put on top is to die for. The miso egg was also quite nice but also very rich. A side of rice with it would be best in my opinion. We ordered the pork fried rice dish and that pork was some of the most tender ive ever had. Melts in your mouth. So good. I got the salmon onigiri which was fine but someone at a table nearby got the veggie miso onigiri and I will definitely be trying that next time.

  • 4/5 V 1 year ago on Google
    I didn’t come for the drinks but my friend was raving about her cocktail. Food was hit or miss. The rockfish, salmon, and the garlic shrimp were all excellent. The onigiri was rather bland. The rice was undercooked and the fish fillings were under seasoned. Same with the salad and pickles. Worth a visit for some “Japanese-inspired” dishes, but it is a tad overrated.

  • 5/5 Todd S. 1 year ago on Google
    What a gem. Really excellent izakaya food (some of the best I’ve had in Oregon) and also great domestic food too (killer burger). Staff is sweet, only downside might be that they’re busy, but that’s because it’s one of the best restaurants in town!

  • 2/5 Eatalittle L. 1 year ago on Google
    I liked the place. Nice vibe, interior design, and service. Couldnt ask for more. The food however was a 2/10. i ordered a miso egg and the meiji salad ; both of which was too salty. The beetroot and pine nuts for thw salad slightly balanced it out, but the tofu seemed out of the place, it felt pale in comparison and was lacking in flavor. There are many more dishes though: and I really hope to come try them out another time.

  • 5/5 Duck A. 1 year ago on Google
    Good first experience. The food is tasty, but beware they are small plates (probably the appropriate portion size.). Staff are very attentive.


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Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Food
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Spirits
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Food at bar
    • ✓️ Comfort food
    • ✓️ Small plates
    • ✓️ Vegan options
    • ✓️ Organic dishes
    • ✓️ Happy-hour food
    • ✓️ Late-night food
    • ✓️ Happy-hour drinks
    • ✓️ Vegetarian options
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✗ Delivery
    • ✓️ Takeaway
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

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