Jonathan W.
Yelp
I've been driving by this place for years and today was a rainy day and I felt like a good curry, so after checking the Yelp reviews on this place I figured I'd give it a go, and I am glad I did!
First, some background, this place has been here for a while, and was a Thai/Japanese fusion restaurant (hence the Elephant and Crane), however as of about four months ago there is a new owner and the focus has shifted entirely to Japanese cuisine.
The interior is cozy and has a nice Asian aesthetic, the servers are friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. I was here on a Monday for a late lunch, after 1pm, and it wasn't packed but was busy... still my food came out in under 10 minutes.
I had the Japanese curry with chicken katsu, and asked that the spice be medium. The curry and katsu were served with a healthy portion of white rice and some tsukemono. The katsu was really good, hot and well seasoned, the chicken was tender and cooked perfectly, and the outside was perfectly crispy. The curry was fantastic, and for me (I like my food spicy) the medium spice was just about right. They put the chili oil in last so be sure to stir the sauce up well!
Even though they removed the Thai items from the menu, it is still substantial! They have everything from edamame to seaweed salad, to gyoza, chicken karaage, and tempura, to ramen, curries, rice bowls, and bento, to green tea ice cream. They have a large beverage selection including soft drinks, Asahi (non-alcoholic), iced and hot teas, and fizzy water.
I am very impressed by this version of Crane & Elephant and plan to come back to sample more of the menu and post an update!
Parking is in small lots in the front and back, and on the side streets, no parking on Sherman Way.