Show Izakaya might be one of the few places in Davis that genuinely feels elevated and special. The space is polished but still comfortable, the staff was attentive, and everything that actually made it to our table was exceptional. Beautiful presentation, excellent quality fish, and a level of care that you immediately notice.
The only reason I can’t give it five stars is what happened with our reservation. We had a party of nine and arrived to find that many of the items we specifically came for, including Shima Aji, Salmon collar, kampachi and several others, were already unavailable. I completely understand that fresh fish availability changes, but with a reservation that large, I really wish we had received a quick phone call beforehand. Two people in our group barely ate because the dishes they had planned on ordering were gone.
What makes it frustrating is that everything else was so good. The staff was genuinely kind, the ambience was beautiful, and every dish we did order was top quality. Show Izakaya brings something different to Davis and absolutely has that special-occasion feeling. I would definitely come back, but next time I’ll call ahead to make sure the items we’re coming for are available.
Veryyyyy aesthetic. Tucked inside a hotel and honestly super photo worthy… we grabbed seats at the far bar with no reservation and everything looked clean and dialed.
After ordering though, it kinda felt like we disappeared. Not awful, just not super attentive… I was literally hunting down a paper napkin and later had to track someone down for soy sauce, ginger, wasabi (a literal speck lol). My hot tea showed up more like room temp, which was a letdown. Prices lean higher too. That said, lots of veggie options, I did have to Google a few dishes.
Food saved it. The miso eggplant was divine, edamame actually had a spicy kick (so good with that saffron moment), and everything came out looking beautiful. Loved the sweet potato roll. I’d go back and give it another shot… solid 4 stars.
I really enjoy my experiences dining at Show Izakaya. The sushi is always fresh and delicious, regardless of the day I randomly come. I appreciate how they source their fish, and the thoughtful melding of flavors of their dishes, whether it’s the truffle hamachi or their variety of rolls, give the menu an edge over similar sushi restaurants. The service is always attentive and kind, and the restaurant is at the high end of Davis eateries. I appreciate you, Show Izakaya!
Started our dinner adventure at this higher end sushi restaraunt. A little on the pricier side but all the boxes were ticked. We each got a roll and none of us were dissatisfied. The flavors were incredible and the food presentation was lovely. The service was prompt and our waters never got low. Paired with a Japanese whisky and hot sake we throughly enjoyed our meal. This was the first place I’ve been where they place a warmer on the table do your sake never looses heat, nice touch.
i’ve been to show izakaya quite a few times and they never disappoint! got their rainbow roll for the first time and it was very delicious. the fish is super fresh and i appreciate that they serve real wasabi here! the matcha latte was also pretty good. presentation is always phenomenal and the service here is very good! employees are super kind and even recognized my group as regulars which was so sweet. will be coming back!
rated by maryam • food critic
Show Izakaya might be one of the few places in Davis that genuinely feels elevated and special. The space is polished but still comfortable, the staff was attentive, and everything that actually made it to our table was exceptional. Beautiful presentation, excellent quality fish, and a level of care that you immediately notice.
The only reason I can’t give it five stars is what happened with our reservation. We had a party of nine and arrived to find that many of the items we specifically came for, including Shima Aji, Salmon collar, kampachi and several others, were already unavailable. I completely understand that fresh fish availability changes, but with a reservation that large, I really wish we had received a quick phone call beforehand. Two people in our group barely ate because the dishes they had planned on ordering were gone.
What makes it frustrating is that everything else was so good. The staff was genuinely kind, the ambience was beautiful, and every dish we did order was top quality. Show Izakaya brings something different to Davis and absolutely has that special-occasion feeling. I would definitely come back, but next time I’ll call ahead to make sure the items we’re coming for are available.
Voluptuous Vegan
Veryyyyy aesthetic. Tucked inside a hotel and honestly super photo worthy… we grabbed seats at the far bar with no reservation and everything looked clean and dialed.
After ordering though, it kinda felt like we disappeared. Not awful, just not super attentive… I was literally hunting down a paper napkin and later had to track someone down for soy sauce, ginger, wasabi (a literal speck lol). My hot tea showed up more like room temp, which was a letdown. Prices lean higher too. That said, lots of veggie options, I did have to Google a few dishes.
Food saved it. The miso eggplant was divine, edamame actually had a spicy kick (so good with that saffron moment), and everything came out looking beautiful. Loved the sweet potato roll. I’d go back and give it another shot… solid 4 stars.
New Sang
I really enjoy my experiences dining at Show Izakaya. The sushi is always fresh and delicious, regardless of the day I randomly come. I appreciate how they source their fish, and the thoughtful melding of flavors of their dishes, whether it’s the truffle hamachi or their variety of rolls, give the menu an edge over similar sushi restaurants. The service is always attentive and kind, and the restaurant is at the high end of Davis eateries. I appreciate you, Show Izakaya!
The Traveler
Started our dinner adventure at this higher end sushi restaraunt. A little on the pricier side but all the boxes were ticked. We each got a roll and none of us were dissatisfied. The flavors were incredible and the food presentation was lovely. The service was prompt and our waters never got low. Paired with a Japanese whisky and hot sake we throughly enjoyed our meal. This was the first place I’ve been where they place a warmer on the table do your sake never looses heat, nice touch.
folie a deux
i’ve been to show izakaya quite a few times and they never disappoint! got their rainbow roll for the first time and it was very delicious. the fish is super fresh and i appreciate that they serve real wasabi here! the matcha latte was also pretty good. presentation is always phenomenal and the service here is very good! employees are super kind and even recognized my group as regulars which was so sweet. will be coming back!