Aburaya

"Punk rock-themed Japanese fried chicken shop Aburaya is actually much more than fried chicken — though you’ll usually spot fried chicken on just about every table. Aburaya also functions as an extra chill, fast-casual izakaya with classics like okonomiyaki as well as creative small plates." - Ellen Fort, Eater Staff

"If you only make one good decision today, let it be getting the fried chicken at Aburaya. A second good decision: ordering it with dry seasonings like the umami salt or garlic miso. The downtown izakaya is a fantastic spot for lunch or dinner, and has other great dishes like oyakodon, fried tofu with miso ranch dressing, and tater tots finished off with katsuo bushi. " - Julia Chen 1, Lani Conway

"This popular punk rock fried chicken joint is the only place where you can nab this fully loaded sandwich: two pieces of Japanese-style chicken karaage, sweet-and-spicy Japanese barbecue sauce, onion, tomato, avocado, and coleslaw — all served between two slices of Texas toast." - Dianne de Guzman, Becky Duffett, Luke Tsai

"The third best thing about getting the superb fried chicken from Aburaya in Oakland is that the restaurant’s name translates to “Oil House,” which is honestly my kind of house." - Eater Staff

"Self-described as punk rock-influenced fried chicken, Aburaya brings Japanese chicken karaage to life in Oakland. Chicken thighs are marinated in shio koji, then battered in potato starch with a choice of wet or dry seasonings like shichimi, housemade barbecue sauce, and umami salt. Don’t skip the grilled onigiri and the excellent seasonal vegetable side dishes. It’s all available for takeout: Call in or get delivery via any of the major third-party apps." - Luke Tsai, Ellen Fort