Oyako Don: fried chicken simmered with organic eggs and onions in dashi broth and mentsuyu, served over rice with a side of mixed greens
Oyako Don on another night
Fried Chicken Sando made with fried chicken, Texas toast, avocado, greens, onion, tomato, slaw, and their own BBQ sauce
4 Pieces Fried Chicken: Shio-koji marinated, boneless, and skinless chicken thighs battered with potato starch and fried in soybean oil, served with cabbage and miso ranch dressing
Beet Salad made with roasted beets, greens, tomato, fried onions, onions, miso ranch, sesame soy dressing, and parmesan cheese
Side of greens
Between November of last year and earlier this month, I visited Aburaya Japanese Fried Chicken 3 - 4 times. This review incorporates photos and experiences from these trips. Located on 17th between Webster and Franklin in Uptown Oakland, Aburaya specializes in Japanese fried chicken (karaage), available in several forms, cooked with various spices and seasonings. I remember when they started as a pop-up in 2014 and have been very happy to see how they've grown into this great brick and mortar space.
When we've visited, we often ordered combinations of the same entrees. I usually get the Oyako Don — fried chicken simmered with organic eggs and onions in dashi broth and mentsuyu, served over rice with a side of mixed greens — because I like having eggs and rice with their chicken. I've also tried 4 Pieces Fried Chicken and the Fried Chicken Sando, both of which are also a treat. For sides, besides the salad many of the entrees come with, I really liked the Beet Salad and the Fried Veggie Hearts. Everything I've tried there I've enjoyed — from the fried chicken that can be seasoned in 11 (!) different ways to their veggie options that clearly show they care about guests with plant-based diets.
I think it's safe to say that Aburaya is in our restaurant rotation. They have a pretty expansive menu, great service, a decent amount of seating, and we've never encountered a wait. They're what pop-ups should aspire to become. Next time, I'll probably order the Oyako Don as well as a side I haven't had, like the Fried Edamame or the Aburaya Tater Tots.
Aburaya Japanese Fried Chicken
362 17th St., Oakland, CA 94612
Open: Monday - Friday 11am - 9pm, Saturday 5 - 9pm
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