Shoya Izakaya

Shoya Izakaya Restaurant Review:

A busy sushi bar and intimate dining areas marked by dark woods create this popular Japanese pub. Shochu, a distilled spirit made from rice, grains or sweet potatoes, is a delightful companion for much of the food. We enjoyed the sweet potato-based chilled Kirishima. Japanese beers also make great quaffs with this fare, as do the cold sakés, including many by the glass. The menu features a bewildering range of well-prepared small plates. In addition, watch for board specials posted on the left as you enter the establishment. Little dishes include kushiyaki (skewered and grilled offerings) such as pork belly with either sea salt or teriyaki (the sauce made in house, of course) or thinly sliced octopus. Tuck into the pork yakisoba with egg ramen noodles, ample for a solo guest as a meal. Vegetarians will dine nicely, from appetizers of crisp mushroom tempura, vegetable sunomono and perfectly fried agadashi tofu, for instance, to various eggplant dishes and sautéed vegetables with sea salt. The menu generally does not bend to American tastes, except in the case of some salads and desserts (ice cream). This is a good spot for a group of friends to gather and explore various unfamiliar libations and cocktails, but be sure to make a reservation as business can get stacked up.