Last April I wrote that IHOP at 4765 Calle Real in Goleta will be closing its doors and reopening in the University Plaza shopping center, home to Albertsons and the DMV. Follow-up rumors suggested that the new home of IHOP might be Itsuki restaurant in the plaza, but Itsuki was still alive and well – that is until now. Reader Roger tells me (and I confirmed) that there is a new sign on the door at Itsuki that reads:
“To our valued customers, Itsuki Japanese Restaurant permanently closed. We would like to thank all of our loyal customers who have supported us throughout the years. We are sorry to say that we must close out doors.”
Itsuki restaurant moved to the plaza at 7127 Hollister Avenue from its long-time home at 4020 Calle Real in October, 2012, replacing Baja Fresh. Reader Phil sent me a copy of a Radius brochure that confirms Itsuki will indeed be replaced by IHOP. A glance at Google maps suggests the new University Plaza space is about half the size of the location on Calle Real that it is replacing.
SAYONARA: Itsuki restaurant in the University Plaza in Goleta (next to Albertsons) has closed and will be replaced by IHOP. Photo by The Restaurant Guy. Diagram by Radius Group.
I really hope not. I’d rather have a local eatery come in there!
Another family run restaurant gone….
This was my family’s favorite Japanese Place!
Fantastic food, super friendly staff and owners!
Good luck on your next adventure!
Thank you for all your hospitality, great food and unforettable moments and memories over the past 20 + years.
You will be missed.
Thank you Chiba Family!!!
Debbie
The brochure for the shopping center shows IHOP in the former Itsuki location.
https://www.radiusgroup.com/wp-admin/admin-post.php?action=download_brochure&listing_id=28907
Aside from the grocery store that whole center is a bunch of nothing, what a waste of space.
My dentist is on the second floor and I Love everyone that works there, not a waste of space.
So disappointed. If you ever wanted to eat the most processed food ever, IHOP is it. Sad to see this close and leave this part of Goleta without a sushi restaurant. (Don’t include Sushi Ai) My family and I also enjoyed eating there. We will miss it.
Ah man, another one bites the dust. Frequented the Calle Real location for years.
More US empire corporate “food”. Ugh
Sorry to see a local place go under, but Itsuki’s customer service is some of the worst I’ve ever experienced – on multiple occasions. I always give small, local places the benefit of the doubt but this spot was just bad. I wish them well in their future endeavors, whatever they may be.
Itsuki was our only restaurant. Every Birthday, anniversary, celebration, special cozy meal. The consistency was immaculent and food always perfect. Exquisite food and memories. Can not be replaced. Thank You to the sushi chef owner for his great care for our community. You will be missed. Sayonara.