Japanese Delights: What Always Makes It to My Menu

Every time I visit a Japanese restaurant, certain dishes always find their way onto my menu. From the crisp and delicious tempura to the savory oyakodon, these are the Japanese delicacies that no traveler or food lover can resist.

Tempura: The Crispy Art of Japanese Cuisine

Tempura is a dish that I really can't get enough of. I’ve had it in Tokyo, where it was simply amazing. Though I’ve attempted to make it at home, the results rarely live up to the perfection I experienced during my travels. The light, airy texture and the freshness of the ingredients make each bite a pure delight. Whether it’s shrimp, vegetable, or tempura and scallops, there is something about the tempura method that I can never get enough of.

Skewered Grilled Chicken and Izakaya Fare

When it comes to izakaya snacks, the grilled chicken on a skewer is a must-try. It pairs incredibly well with a cool beer, offering a perfect balance of flavor and texture. The slightly charred outside envelops a tender interior, making it a delightful dish that’s hard to beat on a chilly night.

Eel Sushi: A Timeless Favorite

Among the sushi options, eel sushi is always a hit. The rich, sweet, and savory flavors of unagi make it a standout in the world of sushi. Whether it’s wrapped in cucumber or served as a nigiri, the eel provides a luxurious taste that is hard to resist. It’s the perfect way to savor the essence of Japanese cuisine in a luxurious and comforting manner.

My Menu Must-Haves at Japanese Restaurants

When I find myself in a restaurant that offers a wide variety of dishes, I often order a bento box. It allows me to sample a number of different things in one meal, making it an excellent way to try various flavors without feeling overwhelmed. Some of the items that regularly feature on my menu include:

Soba soup in dashi broth Agadashi tofu Tomago Inari sushi Shrimp shumai Seafood handroll

While I generally avoid having all of these dishes in one sitting, I do enjoy combining a few of them to create a satisfying and balanced meal. If there’s something new or unfamiliar that catches my eye, I make sure to give it a try, allowing me to explore the incredible and diverse world of Japanese cuisine.

A Trip Down Memory Lane: Japanese Comfort Food

Whenever I visit a truly authentic Japanese restaurant, I find myself drawn to oyakodon. This comfort food classic, which features chicken and egg simmered in a rich sauce, is the perfect dish for a cozy and nostalgic dining experience. It’s the kind of dish that reminds me of the good times I spent in Japan, making it a staple on my menu whenever the opportunity arises.

For those who are looking to recreate the experience of a visit to a Japanese restaurant, but can’t make a trip to Tokyo, these dishes are a great starting point. From crispy tempura to comforting oyakodon, each dish offers a unique and unforgettable taste of Japanese cuisine.