Bamboo, an iPad-Equipped Izakaya, Coming to Santa Monica

Here's some news for fans of Santa Monica's Ozumo: Early next year, the sushi bar will be relocating from its space in Santa Monica Place to a beachside sort just east of the Pier, where it will “evolve” in a new Izakaya restaurant called Bamboo, run by much of the same management team and staff behind Ozumo, including chef Toshio Sakamaki .

But we haven't gotten to the best part: Bamboo's ordering system will revolve around “groundbreaking iPad technology,” allowing guests to see images of the dishes, place orders, and provide “interactive experiences,” which will “[teach] about the history of the Izakaya dining tradition.” Just don't wipe your greasy fingers on the screen after consuming a few chicken skewers.

The menu at Bamboo Izakaya will revolve around small plates of “Japanese interpretations of classic American favorites,” each priced around $10 each. This includes items such as a shiso-based Caprese with yuzu kosho vinaigrette; shrimp egg rolls with rice paper and béchamel sauce; cheeseburger croquettes and potato gratin with mashed potatoes, miso Bolognese, cheese and Tabasco. Nobu, this is not.

And what Santa Monica Japanese restaurant wouldn't be complete without sushi and sake? Signature house rolls and sashimi will be offered, as well as a sake and bar program by Jessica Furui. Bamboo Izakaya hopes to open in the first few weeks of January.

Bamboo Izakaya: 1541 Ocean Ave., Ste. 120, Santa Monica; 310-502-7097.

Advertising disclosure: We may receive compensation for some of the links in our stories. Thank you for supporting LA Weekly and our advertisers.