Av. Félix Marchal 26, 1030 Schaerbeek
What’s hot: Go with the set menu at this informal Japanese bar. The chefs are incredibly organized and focused, so once a choice between the two- or four-course menu is made, you’ll have your first bite within minutes. The starters of homey potato salad and a selection of pickled or glazed vegetables, ranging from burdock root and carrot salad to lotus root and caramelized pumpkin, were a delight.
Our menu continued with a beautiful savory steamed custard called chawanmushi, followed by a selection of deliciously fried fish and vegetables. The miso soup that accompanies the main dish was a highlight and the finale of fried chicken was the star of the menu. The chicken is doused in a soy-based dressing and topped with pickled vegetables and tartar sauce, creating the perfect bite. Rice for the main is all you can eat, and the four courses leave you pleasantly full without any refills.
What’s not: No desserts!
Vibe: The open kitchen and light colors make the small space feel much bigger than it is. The atmosphere is vibrant and service comes with a big smile. The choice of music might be especially appreciated by the mostly millennial crowd with The XX, Florence and the Machine or Tame Impala playing in the background.
Who is picking up the check: The food is so good that the hefty bill won’t hurt too much. The two- and four-course menu options set you back €30 and €39 respectively, while the zensai, or individual dishes, range from €3 to €25. Drinks can quickly distend the bill, with bottles of wine ranging from €30 to €66. And there are limited options for drinks to order by the glass.
Spotted: European Parliament staff revealing themselves by leaving their clear-cased phones displaying the EP calendar.
Insider tip: If you’re feeling brave, you can ask the waiting staff to surprise you with each course.
How to get there: It is only a short bus ride from Schuman or a 10-minute walk up from Ambiorix — for those happy to step out of typical bubble territory.
— Review by Josefine Kroll published June 15, 2023. Illustration by Dato Parulava for POLITICO.
