Welcome to Manpuku
At Manpuku, nestled in the heart of Berkeley, we celebrate the essence of Japanese cuisine with a commitment to quality and affordability. Our story is one of community and comfort, bringing together the vibrant flavors of sushi, udon, and bento boxes that resonate with local residents. Each dish, from the fresh Tekka Maki to the hearty curry udon, reflects our dedication to crafting delicious experiences. With a casual atmosphere and attentive service, Manpuku has become a beloved spot for takeout and dining. Join us for a taste of tradition, where every meal feels like home.
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2977 College Ave, Berkeley, CA 94705 Hotline: (510) 848-2536
Welcome to Manpuku, a charming Japanese eatery nestled on 2977 College Ave in Berkeley, California. This delightful spot offers a variety of authentic dishes, focusing on the fresh flavors of Japanese cuisine while maintaining a casual and inviting atmosphere.
Manpuku stands out for its extensive menu that celebrates the traditional staples of Japanese fare. Guests can indulge in Udon and Soba, with highlights like the Soba hot buckwheat noodle soup priced at an astonishingly affordable $6.50 or the enticing Tempura Udon featuring shrimp and vegetable tempura for just $7.50. The Curry Udon, spiced to perfection with vegetables, tofu, and fishcakes, is another must-try for those seeking warmth and comfort in a bowl.
- Udon & Soba:
- Soba hot buckwheat noodle soup - $6.50
- Tempura Udon / Soba noodle with shrimp & vegetable tempura soup - $7.50
- Curry Udon / Soba udon noodle in spicy soup w/ vegetable, tofu, fishcakes & kimchi - $6.50
- Maki:
- Oshinko Maki (pickled radish roll) - $2.00
- Salmon Maki - $2.95
- Avocado Maki - $2.50
- Appetizers:
- Green Salad with miso dressing - $1.75
- Vegetable Miso Soup - $2.95
- Tsukemono (pickled radish) - $1.50
The reviews from loyal patrons echo a common appreciation for the quality and value that Manpuku delivers. Sierra L. expresses her enthusiasm, exclaiming, "Amazing give me ten more of those!", particularly highlighting the chirashi bowls as a great deal. Francisco C. reflected on the comforting atmosphere, stating he’s been a fan for years, especially cherishing its role in the community amidst challenges.
When dining at Manpuku, each dish provides a sense of authenticity made with fresh ingredients. The nigiri and rolls offer delightful bites with a focus on fresh fish, while the comforting curry udon and teriyaki options serve as hearty alternatives. Customers rave about the chicken katsu and salmon avocado rolls, which hit all the right notes of flavor and texture without breaking the bank.
Interestingly enough, Manpuku maintains a casual dining experience where you order at the counter, yet the ambiance invites you to sit back and enjoy your meal at the cozy bar seating or spacious indoor area. The attentive staff add to your experience with friendly service and complimentary tea, making it a perfect spot for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner.
Whether you're a seasoned sushi aficionado or a casual diner looking for authentic Japanese food, Manpuku is a treasure worth exploring in the Elmwood neighborhood. With reasonable prices, fresh ingredients, and a welcoming environment, it has all the makings of a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Amazing give me ten more of those! I don't know why the reviews stars are low for Manpuku but I would also go there to dine in or order takeout. Favs are the chirashi bowls and they are a great deal compared to other menu items.
Love this place. Been coming for years. Glad it's still part of the community and survive the pandemic. Recently came on Christmas Eve for lunch since I don't have family or friends in the area. Happy I got some comforting food before the holiday break. Affordable and comfortable. 10/10
First off, as an Elmwood area resident for 8 years, I can't believe I haven't popped in here before. But I did it, and can share. 3.5 stars is very much on point. While everything is fine, nothing stood out. What bumps this review to 4 stars vs 3, is although portions aren't huge, prices are reasonable for Berkeley. I've been going to other Japanese spots with just the same, if not less quality, and paid more. I went with nigiri, rainbow roll and a bento box with teriyaki chicken and gyoza. The gyoza are a hard pass. The nigiri was solid! While they don't have a ton of exotic fish, they have the main stays of tuna and salmon and they were fresh with a nice size piece of fish. The rainbow roll was fine, although the crab salad was very mayo-y. The chicken teriyaki made with boneless chicken thighs was solid. A heaping portion of rice, a subpar salad and a small-ish serving of saucy, but tasty chicken teriyaki. Inside was cute, with a long narrow dining area with a sushi bar, and seemingly popular on a Monday night. While I don't think I'd make this a regular spot, I live nearby, it was fresher than some other spots I've had and prices were reasonable.
This is a very casual, reasonably priced, small restaurant for good sushi. You order at the counter and they bring it to your table. This was my first visit, but my friend's go-to inexpensive sushi place that's within walking distance of her house. I had the rainbow roll so I could taste different pieces of fish and it was good; not the very best sushi I've had, but definitely good. My companion had the "Elwood", which is the mushroom and spinach roll and she loved it. She said that's always her go-to when she comes here. She also had the unagi roll (I think) and she enjoyed that, too. I'd certainly return if I'm in the area. The friendly wait staff and complimentary tea were an added incentive to come back!
We ordered two different Dons: Saki Don and Unagi Don. Then we split them so we could enjoy the salmon and the unagi. Manpuki is on College Avenue across from Rialto Cinema, Elmhurst and great place to buy your sushi.
Some of the best sushi I've had, and at a great price. Manpuku looks small from the outside, but there's bar seating and some indoor seating that goes far back inside. If you're eating in, you order first before being seated, although there's an abundance of grab and go food up front. Free hot tea and sauces! The sushi was sooo delicious, and all tasted so fresh. I loved the red dragon roll, and the salmon avocado! This sushi is also very reasonably priced compared to most other places. The chicken katsu was amazing- light and crispy. I asked for some teriyaki sauce on the side. This is my new favorite place for sushi, I'll definitely be back!
A cute storefront with easy options for pickup, takeout, and dining in. I had two rolls and a plate of curry. The portions and prices were appropriate and delicious! Self serve water and hot tea are available and such a great plus. The staff is great and amiable. I'm almost always in Elmwood so stopping by here will be a part of my rotation.
Now here's a compact spot that has never made my radar. However, I was exploring the Elmwood neighborhood since a revamped AC Transit bus line made the area a lot more accessible to me. I was able to slip into one of the tables for two along the side wall since the lunch rush was done. The menu was pretty packed, especially with sushi rolls and nigiri. I started with the $5.50 Oshitashi. It was competently assembled with spinach, sesame seeds, bonito flakes, and plenty of ponzu sauce (photo: https://yelp.to/sEWN8vocZY). I decided to get the $18.95 Chirashi, a good price for twelve pieces of fresh mixed sashimi over sushi rice (photo: https://yelp.to/hubaCJXU4v). It came with a welcome cup of hot miso soup (photo: https://yelp.to/Swc5fls3sX). A fine unexpected lunch indeed. FOOD - 4 stars...a solidly fresh chirashi to be had here AMBIANCE - 4 stars...tiny but well organized and maintained SERVICE - 4.5 stars...timely and attentive TOTAL - 4 stars...genuinely satisfying Japanese spot RELATED - Exploring Berkeley? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2CbVh8u