Had the best experience here, super creative asian food (not sure how authentic because haven't visited japan yet). Izakaya pattern is (explained to us by the waiter) basically small portions of highly flavoured and cured food items so don't come here if you're someone who likes a bang foe your bucks. Come here with an attitude to appreciate east asian flavours and possibly spend a little more than average to truly enjoy this place.
First off, the ambience is absolutely amazing. Came here on a first date and our original choice of restaurant was closed so my date took me to a "surprise spot" and this was the place; was totally impressed by his selection because this is exactly the type of food pallette I love endeavoring myself with. Ambience is chill but not too casual. Noise level is good enough for conversations.
We started with hay smoked salmon which came in this ceramic bowl layered with hay stacks in the bottom. The waiter lighted it up and covered the salmons on a grill on top of it. We were to remove the lid after 2mins but we might have left it overtime so oit salmon was pretttyy smoked, kind of tasted like ash and cigarette. It wasn't my thing.
But then our drinks came and oh god my strawberry liquor think was an absolute goddess nectar. If you're into sweet and smooth alocholic drinks, then this is your drink. It had a japanese spirit and this milk like Japanese drink in it. I'm sorry that I forgot the name.
We also had chef's grill selection which is basically strips of marinated beef, chicken, octopus, shrimp and veggies with a side of chillinand hoysin sauce. You have to fry the raw meat on a crystal grill. Loved the chilli sauce with the chicken and beef and pairing the hoysin sauce with the mushrooms. This was an interactive way to participate with your "ready made" food and I had a marvellous time grilling and enjoying the warm and fresh meat and fish.
But the best part of my experience was the kimchi fried rice. Omg what is this thing. Soooo gooood. We took it because all the other reviews mentioned it and so glad that we did so. Just go for it. Trust me. You won't regret.