Ok .. quick update. I did go back and brought my mom for a birthday. She did not quite comprehend why 'there was so much noise' but I subject that to her age.
Everything was basically the same in terms of service / ambiance. So I will just discuss the new dishes I tried. I am too tired to lookup the Japanese translation so I am going by English memory:
1) Grilled Squid - Delicious. Highlight. Was not chewy at all.
2) Pancake (okono-yaki) - Blech. Mushy. Is there even any meat within?
3) Beef Sashimi - Delish. Expensive. Worth it.
4) Scallop Sashimi - What is up with the mayo? All I could taste was MAYO. Pass.
5) Fried Shrimp (Ebifry) - Good. But again, too much mayo. Please spice your dishes up with something besides mayo.
I can't wait to hit up Queen Izakaya next.