A Blooming Izakaya...

Thanks to like-minded buddies, Joanne and Jimmy, our Izakaya experience has just been elevated to new heights with the recommendation of Kaikaya. Located in a discreet side street, Kaikaya is meant only for those in the know as it stays well hidden from the prying eyes of chick-chic Shibuya. With an abundance of fresh fish and seafood on the menu, Kaikaya offers its patrons a fusion of Japanese and Western culinary delights within the confines of its rustic setting.

開花屋's fish Carpaccio, prawn mayo, Kobe beef sushi, grilled fish and a half-eaten tuna rib

The fish Carpaccio with basil and olive oil, top with a generous serving of crispy garlic bits is as mouth-watering as it sounds. The sweet basil and the pungent yet aromatic garlic bits is a heavenly match. Next, sink your teeth into the deep fried prawns served with a dollop of mayonnaise in a pastry cup. What can I say for this crowd-pleaser except that they are truly "trashy" and addictive:) The tuna rib surrounded by a ladleful of light, sweet piquant sauce is yet again a perfect ten on the score sheet with its firm, meaty texture while the grilled fish serves as a nice contrast with its soft, succulent flesh, best enjoyed with a squirt of lemon. Though Kaikaya is not your traditional Japanese restaurant, having a round of sushi here is still a no-brainer especially when we are talking about velvety Kobe beef sushi. An order or two of this premium sushi is a definite and emphatic must! The miso soup, a melting pot of fish, miso paste, wakame and sesame tasted marvelous too. Enriched by the fish stock that has probably been simmering for hours, it is imperative that one completes a meal at Kaikaya with this dish.

Clearly in a class of its own, Kaikaya is top notch with no ifs ands or buts about it.

Kaikaya 開花屋
Address: 23-7 Maruyama-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Telephone: 03-3770 -0878
Michelin: None