. "2"^^ . . "2014-01-04T00:00:00"^^ . "There are so many izakayas downtown now, but I quite like this one for several reasons:\n- No lineups (unlike places like Guu)\n- Takes reservations \n- Attentive service (maybe they have improved this since previous reviews mentioned service being slow?)\n- Noise is at a level that you can have a conversations without yelling\n- Pricing is very reasonable compared to other places (dinner for two including drinks and dessert came to ~$65) \n- Great location, close to Wellesley station\n\nThe 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. \n\nCocktails are cheap at $6-8. My melon-chan (juice, calpico, soda) was sweet and tasty. As for the food, highlights for me were:\n-Maguro - seared tuna sashimi with ponzu jelly and some radish on the side. Melts in your mouth...\n- 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. \n- Grilled rosemary marinated chicken - simple, but well-executed and juicy\n- French toast - seems like an odd choice, but this was absolutely delicious!! It's 3 small pieces with honey and vanilla ice cream. \n\nI 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!"^^ . "6"^^ . . "4"^^ . "1"^^ .