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Chef-owner Jesse Ito at work at Royal Sushi & Izkayay on May 31, 2024.
Chef-owner Jesse Ito at work at Royal Sushi & Izkayay on May 31, 2024.Read moreCharles Fox / Staff Photographer
Craig LaBan’s Top 10

Royal Sushi and Izakaya

Featured on Craig LaBan’s Top 10
South PhiladelphiaJapanese, Sushi, Tasting Menu$$$$

Scoring a seat for the omakase remains annoyingly difficult, if not virtually impossible — unless you know a regular willing to gift their reservation, or get supremely lucky on Resy. A major consolation is that the izakaya, whose inventive cocktails and a la carte menu are for walk-ins only, remains a singular destination in its own right. There are superb sushi rolls and the stunning Royal chirashi box, while izakaya chef Justin Bacharach’s kitchen also makes Philly’s best cooked Japanese food, from irresistible clams in miso broth to a comforting Jidori egg and chicken omelet over dashi-splashed rice.

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The Inquirer aims to represent the geographic, cultural, and culinary diversity of the region in its coverage. Inquirer staffers and contributors do not accept free or comped meals — all meals are paid for by the Inquirer. All dining recommendations are made solely by the Inquirer editorial staffers and contributors based on their reporting and expertise, without input from advertisers or outside interests.

Restaurant Details

780 S. 2nd St., Philadelphia, PA, 19147
267-909-9002
https://royalsushiandizakaya.com
royal_izakaya
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