rev:text
| - There are so many izakayas downtown now, but I quite like this one for several reasons:
- No lineups (unlike places like Guu)
- Takes reservations
- Attentive service (maybe they have improved this since previous reviews mentioned service being slow?)
- Noise is at a level that you can have a conversations without yelling
- Pricing is very reasonable compared to other places (dinner for two including drinks and dessert came to ~$65)
- Great location, close to Wellesley station
The place has a casual, laid-back vibe and feels authentic. Lots of Japanese-speaking diners which is a good sign. You can sit at a table or at the bar. I definitely would recommend sitting at the bar that overlooks the grill. You can then appreciate the detail involved in making the okonomiyaki and other dishes. The menu is a mix of standard izakaya fare (karaage, takoyaki), plus some less traditional items (guacamole, caesar salad). Don't forget to check out their daily food and drink specials.
Cocktails are cheap at $6-8. My melon-chan (juice, calpico, soda) was sweet and tasty. As for the food, highlights for me were:
-Maguro - seared tuna sashimi with ponzu jelly and some radish on the side. Melts in your mouth...
- Okonomiyaki - lots of stuff and magically it holds together! I love that they do it Hiroshima style (with noodles on the bottom). Very flavourful and filling.
- Grilled rosemary marinated chicken - simple, but well-executed and juicy
- French toast - seems like an odd choice, but this was absolutely delicious!! It's 3 small pieces with honey and vanilla ice cream.
I hope this place does well! I will definitely be back to try other menu items. One downside mentioned by someone else, the place is chilly... Not sure if they are having a problem with their heating because they had some space heaters around and it was still cold!
|