Menu of Ichiban Japanese Restaurant in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA

Menu Overview

Nestled in Albuquerque at 10701 Corrales Rd Suite 18, Ichiban Japanese Restaurant offers an authentic and diverse Japanese dining experience that truly stands out. The menu is a carefully curated blend of traditional Japanese and Korean dishes, showcasing the richness of East Asian flavors with an emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation.

The Deluxe Bento for Two is a signature dish and a perfect introduction to the depth of flavor and variety Ichiban brings to the table. This dine-in exclusive features a choice between California Roll or sashimi, paired with two selections from teriyaki chicken, salmon, bulgogi, steak, or karaage. Accompanied by squid and seaweed salad, eggroll, steamed gyoza, and assorted tempura, this $40 offering leaves no room for substitutions but promises a satisfying and well-balanced meal for two.

For sushi aficionados, the Sushi Lunch Combo Plus Crab Stick and the Sushi Lunch Special deliver a fresh, vibrant selection, including the Super Eel Roll and Unagi Roll. Each bite highlights the delicate textures and subtle flavors of expertly prepared nigiri and maki. The combination of seven-piece nigiri with a California Roll in the lunch special provides a versatile sushi experience, with the option to customize rolls for an additional cost, showing Ichiban’s attention to customer preferences.

The Tempura Dinner serves crisp, golden battered vegetables or assorted tempura atop steamed rice, balancing textures with a clean, light taste. Their deft handling of tempura extends also to elegant starters such as the calamari and shrimp tempura appetizers, which are light, crispy, and flavorful without being greasy.

Expanding beyond Japanese cuisine, Ichiban incorporates Korean staples such as Bulgogi Beef, thinly sliced ribeye marinated in house sauce, and Galbi, beef short ribs with optional kimchi, echoing the cross-cultural culinary appeal. The Chapchae — stir-fried sweet potato noodles with chicken, vegetables, or tofu — offer a savory, satisfying dish that harmonizes well with the other menu items.

One cannot overlook the Lunch Build-A-Bowl option, which encourages diners to craft their own meal by selecting from a broad range of entrees and sides, including chicken teriyaki, spicy chicken, tonkatsu, tempura varieties, and more. This flexibility caters well to diverse tastes and dietary preferences, a practical feature for lunch crowds seeking quick yet nutritious meals.

For dessert, the deep-fried green tea ice cream is an inspired touch — a perfect crescendo that marries temperature contrast and flavor in a way that complements the savory dishes preceding it.

Customer reviews reflect a consistently high standard. Diners praise the light, crisp texture of dishes like age dashi tofu and the generous, fresh servings found in bowls and sushi platters. Family-friendly with attentive, respectful service, Ichiban’s atmosphere is relaxed yet vibrant, making it ideal for casual dinners, date nights, or lunch breaks.

In conclusion, Ichiban Japanese Restaurant excels in delivering a comprehensive menu that bridges traditional Japanese favorites with Korean influences, all served with finesse and hospitality. Whether it’s the rich umami of grilled bulgogi, the delicate balance of tempura, or the artful presentation of sushi rolls, Ichiban promises a fulfilling culinary journey worthy of repeat visits.