Shuseki is a good alternative to Ichiza for those who aren't down with the crowdy and noisy atmosphere that makes Ichiza so lovable. There were twelve in our group standing outside Ichiza only to find that a silly someone hadn't made a reservation. So what to do? Shuseki.
Shuseki's a sort of fancier version of Ichiza, with many of the same items on the menu at a slightly higher price and no specials on the walls. The food is still very good, and the people were nice enough, catering to a large group like ourselves. We were seated in the take-your-shoes-off section, which was fun but not so fun when your legs start to cramp because they don't have the convenient pit in the middle like Ichiza.
So I say go to Ichiza. But if you find yourself stuck with no reservation and an hour-and-a-half wait, just head up the street to Shuseki in the 'other' block of Chinatown.