Izakaya

Izakaya Restaurant Review:

The brainchild of local chefs Jean-Philippe Gaston (formerly of Cove) and Manabu “Hori” Horiuchi of Kata Robata Sushi + Grill, this modern gastropub features Japanese fare, seafood and raw bites. The contemporary interior highlights Japanese money cats and murals painted by a local tattoo artist, minimalist chairs and a long bar that’s perfect for happy hour noshing and sipping. Pick your spot and start with a strong cocktail --- maybe the Midori with gin, saké, melon and milk, which tastes better than it sounds --- and a starter of brandy-cured foie gras served in a jar. Don’t expect traditional Japanese dishes: the menu is inspired by up-to-the-moment global influences. For example, there’s a chicken-fried steak dredged in ground shiitake mushrooms, fried and topped with tofu gravy. Plenty of ceviches and crudos, grilled items, roasted beets and papaya salad are available, too. Do sample the Japanese beers and whiskey, mixed with the Mexican Topo Chico mineral water, and one of the inventive desserts.