THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Shochu

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Shochu Restaurant Review:

Is Shochu a cool lounge that happens to serve small plates or is it a restaurant that also features some fun cocktails? Well, this scenester spot that gets its name from the popular vodka-like Japanese spirit it features is both. Fashioned loosely after izakayas (Japanese pubs), Shochu takes a mix-and-match approach with its Asian-influenced menu. Start with some unusual rolls---the crab, smoked duck pâté and carrot is quite good---and sushi. We also like the marinated skirt steak lettuce cups, which pack a subtle heat, and the refreshing tuna tartare with pineapple. Many sauces accompany the yakitori---but chicken with Japanese scallion is a winner. There’s a selection of chicken wings and fried plates as well. All in all, the menu is fun, if a bit confusing. As for the libations, we favor shochu with muddled blackberries and simple syrup and the shochu Bloody Marys and mimosas. Check out the beautiful back patio.