Live a Little and Order the Dessert at Charleston Newcomer Shokudô | Eater Carolinas

"Under chef Masatomo “Masa” Hamaya, this Charleston newcomer brings Japanese tavern fare to Upper King, offering skewers of grilled meats, ramen, fancy small bites, gyoza, creative desserts, and hand rolls made with local seafood. I found it more upscale than a typical izakaya yet still lively and casual: before sunset the room is calm with warm wood tones, glowing candles, and subtle artwork, but as it fills an upbeat soundtrack and a palpable buzz take over. The Japanese grill in the glowing window to the open kitchen becomes the star, sending smoky aromas through the dining room, and there’s a more raucous beer garden out back with neon lights and colorful murals. For must-orders, the uni toastettes—combining red urchin, lardo, and milkbread and topped with salmon roe—are a super-indulgent bite that had me melting from the buttery richness; the toro beef skewer delivers melt-in-your-mouth short rib with mushroom slices for extra umami and hints of grill char for smoke; and the Golden Arches Hand Pie, served in a red cardboard sleeve, is aces above the fast-food original with roasted South Carolina apples, butterscotch, a crisp flaky crust, and a side of miso caramel for dipping. A small insider touch: the big red neon sign at the back bar reads “mono no aware,” a nod to nostalgia and the beauty of impermanence." - Erin Perkins