I Love Teriyaki — Who Doesn’t? | Sacramento Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce

Nov 23rd, 2022

Midtown is one of Sacramento’s hotspots for business, entertainment, and food. While wandering its streets, the tempting smells of various culinary delights waft through the air. Located in the heart of this bustling district is I Love Teriyaki 3, a restaurant specializing in Asian cuisine, with menu items including noodle plates, sushi, and of course, teriyaki.

I Love Teriyaki took root in Midtown in 1998, meaning the business has served the Sacramento region for more than two decades. In 2013, however, it underwent a change in ownership when Daniel Takata and Jennifer Joo took over restaurant operations. While the restaurant’s management may have changed, I Love Teriyaki’s legacy remains.

“I was an employee here back in 2005 and was encouraged by my friend from Hawaii, who opened it in 1998, to purchase the restaurant from his brother-in-law,” Daniel said.

Having worked for the restaurant before, Daniel already knew its operations thoroughly and was well-suited to take on an ownership role, which has been proven through the restaurant’s popularity and high ratings.

However, managing a business isn’t always easy, and Daniel admits that the pandemic posed a significant challenge, causing difficulties with restrictions and staffing. In the recovery period, the I Love Teriyaki crew isn’t just focused on the business numbers. Daniel said they also strive to take care of and bond with one another.

“We have started to do employee group outings as restrictions have relaxed, including karaoke, dinner at a casino, going to the state fair, attending the theater, and most recently, dinner and a King’s Game,” Daniel said.

I Love Teriyaki not only connects with its employees, but also with its wide variety of customers. The restaurant’s delicious food and friendly staff have attracted visits from sports and news celebrities. A few of the guests I Love Teriyaki has welcomed include Dusty Baker, manager of the Houston Astros and former Dodgers athlete; Arik Armstead of the 49ers; and Kathy Park, NBC News correspondent.

Each visitor, celebrity or not, who comes through I Love Teriyaki’s door will experience a dedicated small business and a lively team. Should you ever find yourself in Midtown craving a warm and flavorful meal – you could be the next.

Plan your next meal at I Love Teriyaki:
1410 21st Street
Sacramento, CA 95811

Facebook: I Love Teriyaki 3 Midtown

Written by: Sarah Ansari