I was looking for a romantic and unique place for Valentines day. I saw this menu and was intrigued. They had a special prix fixe menu for the holiday, but we didn't really like the food being offered, so we opted for their a la cart.
I guess since it was a special day, they called me to get my card info ahead of time. It was a confusing process because if I called them back, it went to the hotel lobby, and they didn't have a clue what I was talking about when trying to give them my card. Weird that they didn't just take it from the open table reservation I made.
EXPERIENCE
We arrived, we had a 5:45 reservation on a Tuesday, I think it had to be that early because of Valentines. But it was not busy at all. The restaurant isn't small, there were many open tables even when we left. It was quite confusing because they were turning away other parties, but it wasn't full. I even tried calling to move my reservation to be later, but they said no. When we left, maybe 6/15 tables were full.
Anyways, the service was really good. Constantly refilling our water, asking how our meal was going. The food came out in a timely manner. The ambiance was amazing. The decor, furniture, dishware, was all impressive to us. The menu was interesting with some true fusion and unique combinations. I was pleasantly surprised.
FOOD
(5/5) Hamachi Crudo (Sweet Onion, Serrano Pepper, Kaiso Salad, Black Sea Salt, Yuzu Kosho, Ponzu, Olive Oil) - This was great, seemingly simple, very fresh. I wanted more. The heat, acid and salt all in one dish. I loved this. Highly recommend you try it out for yourself!
(5/5) Crispy Sesame Shrimp (Spicy Soy & Ginger Dipping Sauce) - This lived up to its name. Extremely crispy, covered in sesame seeds. I have never experienced so much crunch. The dipping sauces complimented well too. I normally don't love ginger, but I didn't find it overpowering in this situation.
(4/5) Mini Grilled Lobster Sando (Milk Bread, Miso Aioli, Furikake, Tograshi Cheese) - This was yummy, but it was quite heavy. The bread was really soft! But everything about this was just heavy. Maybe some acid or something to cut all of the fat would have been nice. I think the cheese was an interesting addition, I don't really associate lobster and cheese, maybe a step too far. The aioli and furikake made sense and were nice. What about a yuzu aioli instead?
(3/5) Wagyu Burger (Tomarashi Cheese, Miso Aioli, Fries, Toasted Brioche Bun) - I don't really understand taking a nice wagyu cut of beef and turning it into a burger. My partner ordered this. He liked it for the first 3 bites, but then it became overwhelming. Quite heavy. There wasn't much balancing the dish, just all heavy ingredients, nothing refreshing to compliment.
DESSERT
(4/5) Chai Panna Cotta (Cardamom Streusel, Frosted Pistachio, Satsuma) - I liked this a lot, the flavors were subtle but noticeable. Does it taste like chai, that I am not so certain of. The panna cotta was delicious with a good mouth feel. But the frosted pistachios, something was wrong with those. It wasn't adding crunch, it just kind of mushed in my mouth, and unpleasant feeling.
OVERVIEW
Maybe I was just in an extra good mood this night. Regardless of all the confusing reservation issues leading up to the night, and being forced to come for an early dinner unnecessarily, it was a really good experience. Perhaps I actually enjoyed the fact that it wasn't so busy and could hear my date.
Anyways. The vibes were amazing. The food was interesting and delicious. Risks are being taken in smart ways. The server was really attentive. I highly suggest you come here for a romantic night out and a hearty meal! read more