You’ve wrangled your way through the unwieldy folded doors and are being seated in the small space that is Yoshizawa.
Does thinking about authentic Japanese food keep you up at night? Then you’ll love what Yoshizawa has to offer.
Toss aside that laminated menu, and turn your hungry gaze to the specials board on the wall. Now pick one of the fish, preferably saba (AKA mackerel), set options. The specials are ever-changing but there’s usually at least one saba dish: and believe me, you deserve it. If for some heart-wrenching reason there’s no fish options, you’ll be wanting to chow down on beef tongue, hamburg steak (hambaagu) or basically an option that you’ve never heard of. I didn’t bring you here for katsu and teriyaki! Just as a disclaimer – the other meals are also delicious, I just think Yoshizawa makes killer fish dishes.
Yoshizawa’s meal sets consist of a neat little tray loaded with rice, salad, pickles, miso soup, green tea and your main dish for a an equally beautiful price of around $12 – 15. A steal for such a pretty little set. Portions are more Japanese sized than American – but I don’t think you’ll leave hungry.
If you’re still peckish, finish it off with one of Yoshizawa’s perfect cream puffs (sometimes there’s a deal on when you buy two, do with this information what you wish 😉), dango skewers – the mitarashi (sweet soy) version is great – or a slice of Japanese cheesecake from the cabinet.
There’s no overwhelming atmosphere or memorable furnishings, but it’s a refreshingly clean, relaxed space for you to eat with friends without feeling hustled out the door by waiters. Staff is reserved but friendly, and food served very quick.
You’ll leave warm and fuzzy with a new favourite inner city Japanese restaurant. Easy as that.
I can’t wait for you to check it out. See you there!
Kiwi Eats Asia 