Kiraku

“ok the broth at kiraku is like liquid gold! reminds me of the bone broths nonna would simmer all day - that depth of flavor you can only get wiht patience and proper technique just saying”

“so like teh bamboo shoots were kinda too soft for me honestly, like they were missing that crisp bite that would give some texture contrast to all that silky broth”

“pleasantly surprised how many options worked for my dietary needs here. the vegetable tempura was crispy and light, and when i asked the staff about how THINGS were prepared they actually knew thier stuff about ingredients”

“miso soup came out lukewarm which was kinda disappointing. its such a basic part of the meal that you'd expect better attention to detail at this price point 10/10”

“actually the sashimi platter was absolutely STUNNING. every piece laid out so artfully wiht these delicate garnishes, looked incredible in the light. the colors and textures were just like perfect composition that also tasted as good as it looked”

“real talk the dining room is kinda cramped which makes it annoying if youre trying to take photos wihtout bumping people. tables are also too close together when youre trying to get the full spread in a shot”

“that tonkotsu broth at kiraku hits different honestly - rich and creamy like teh best nashville gravy but with this deep pork flavor that jsut develops over hours of cooking the chashu literally melted like butter, reminded me of the best pulled pork back home dead serious”

“honestly the spice level was way tamer than my grandmas sunday dinner tho. asked for extra heat and got what felt like a whisper of white pepper lol ha”

“look okay so the saba shioyaki here legitimately feels like you got transported to kyoto or something the fish is grilled SO well?? like the char on the skin is perfect but the inside is still buttery adn delicate. the chef DEF knows what theyre doing with traditional technique and honestly the rice quality is up there with actual sushiya ive been to in japan”

“service was kinda rushed during our 7pm slot tho, like plates were getting cleared before we even finished sometimes. i get efficiency but it felt more LIKE a diner than an intimate japanese place if that makes sense”