Strange Beast

Great bar with Japanese pub-food (Izakaya). The cocktails are creative. The sake menu is impressive.

I like that the sushi menu is limited. They don't try to keep 18 kinds of fish "fresh." Salmon & ikura, scallops, crab — all te-maki (hand roles).

We also had the tempura, the agedashi tofu, and the pork sandwich.

Everything was delicious. What a fun place!

Nice atmosphere, nice waitress.
We stopped in on Sunday night for a quick drink and a small bite. We have eaten at Sama Sama in SB and Ojai on several occasions and were excited to check out your new location.
We noticed one of the waiters bringing out Ramen (Sunday is ramen night) and he was carrying the ramen with his thumbs INSIDE the bowl. He did this several times. Perhaps use a tray or napkin?? Please talk to your staff and properly train them on how to serve the food correctly.
Wishing you success on your new venture

Great space! We went for their opening week & the ramen was great! Hand rolls were even more amazing! Yay sama sama & good lion company! Love y’all

Just wow!! The love, creativity and attention to detail that has gone into every element of Strange Beast is palpable. From the Kaiju art to the neon, the interior color palette and perfect accent lighting make this one of the most inviting spots yet to arrive in Ventura.

The smiling faces and warm demeanor of our servers and staff from the moment we stepped in the door was just wonderful. Everyone of them seems to exude genuine pride in what they have accomplished. As they should !

The well crafted cocktails were all on point and expertly prepared. Oh the food….If only time had allowed to try each and every item on the food menu. What we did sample was wonderful. The perfectly crispy chicken karaage was our favorite (so far) but the various small hand rolls were delicious too. The Sunday Ramen looked amazing.

Come experience this new spot. It has an enveloping environment meant to be enjoyed by all the senses with good friends. They deserve high praise for their achievement!

Seriously can’t wait to return.

Amazing bar concept brings the best of Japanese whiskey inspired craft cocktails with bar food by Sama Sama team.