Here’s an update from our dear ~ICHI SUSHI~ friends: it ends up chef-owner Tim Archuleta has been going through some rough health issues the past few months (he just had a major surgery on Sunday and is thankfully on the mend), and so Tim and his wife Erin have made the hard decision to downsize their operation. They are going to sell the current ICHI location and move back to their smaller space at 3369 Mission Street, which they still own; they plan to reopen in January 2017. When Tim is ready to get back behind the sushi counter, it made more sense for him to be able to ease back into a space that is more manageable sizewise (and stresswise).
Here’s where we can all help out: Tim’s lengthy hospital visit has racked up some burdensome bills, and it would be amazing to show some support to the wonderful Archuletas and donate to the GoFundMe page their friends set up for them. There is also going to be a fundraising party on Monday January 16th, so save the date.
The last night of service in their 3282 Mission Street space will be New Year’s Eve, so maybe you can come by for what is going to be quite a party. They’ll be serving a classic omakase-style sushi menu, and you can pony up for some rare and exciting sake pairings and more. Dinner service starts at 5:30pm; reservations here.
While they will keep many of their beloved crew, they are also actively searching to secure placement for the rest of their skilled team. Their swell space at 3282 will go on the market with CGI Retail and they are excited to offer it up to a new generation of small business owners. Here’s wishing the Archuletas all the best for 2017. Heal up, Tim—day by day, you’ll feel better. We love you and can’t wait to see you laughing behind your counter and doing the sushi voodoo that you do.
More news about another one of our city’s skilled sushi chefs: Jiro Lin, who was previously at HAMANO for 11 years but then partnered for a while with Joshua Skenes at Saison on an exquisite sushi counter experience, Jiro SF. Lin is back at Hamano, but Eater reports he is now the owner. He’s going to be doing some remodeling in the new year (and adding some seats at the sushi bar), and also wants to offer a high-level omakase experience, but not at the mega inflated prices we’re seeing around town. He’s aiming for 12-15 pieces for $90-$150, plus some small plates, or an all-fish menu for $48-$55 for 8 pieces and $75-$90 for 12. While this omakase experience isn’t in place just yet, probably in March or so, you can always get in touch with Jiro and request it ahead of time (text him a week in advance at 650-291-1585 with your party size, date—you’ll need to provide some credit card information too). 1332 Castro St. at Jersey, 415-826-0825.
The Archuletas, Tim and Erin, of ICHI Sushi. Photo via their GoFundMe page.
