Michelle N.
Yelp
I've been meaning to try out Izakaya Masa after hearing a few positive reviews here and there, especially since I generally like Japanese food. I definitely wish I came sooner!
- PARKING -
There's a tiny parking lot, which will get filled up once it gets close to opening time! There is street parking available, but you may need to walk a block or two during rush hours.
- SERVICE/ENVIRONMENT -
They put out a sign-in sheet in front of the restaurant before opening (5:30 pm), but when we arrived at 5:25 pm on a Friday night, the list was already about 7-8 parties in. The restaurant itself is also very small, with about 6 bar stools, 3-4 (2) person tables, 2-3 (4) person tables, and around 3 larger tables in the back that fit up to 6 comfortably. I would definitely come early to ensure you get seated first round, although it seems like some parties came to eat a quick bite and left fairly quickly. Appetizers came out extremely fast, and service was very attentive all night.
- FOOD -
Gyoza (6pcs - $5.50): The skin on the Gyoza is much thinner than most I've had, which was actually a nice change of pace! I don't want to get full off appetizers, so this definitely helped! The flavoring of the filling was delicious, and the Gyoza itself wasn't too oily!
Fried Garlic (~1clove? - $5.00): Unlike other spots I've been to, they individually fry each Garlic Clove, so each piece has a nice exterior skin to it! I definitely can't eat too many myself, but my boyfriend enjoyed it!
Masa's Fried Chicken (5pcs - $7.50): WOW this Chicken was juicy! Usually deep-fried chicken ends up being too oily or too dry on the inside, but Masa did it perfectly. I do wish they served this with a sauce, but they only give you a lemon slice.
Salmon Sashimi (~6/7pcs - $13.00): I was shocked at the quality of the Sashimi here - I went in with very low expectations but was amazed at how buttery and soft this Salmon was. I usually only find this quality of fish at more high-end sushi restaurants!
Hakata Ramen ($12.00): Of the few reviews I heard, the Hakata Ramen was always mentioned in passing. I decided to give it a shot, and was also pleasantly surprised! I wouldn't say it's my favorite ramen as I'm more inclined towards thick noodle options, but this was pretty good - I think especially at its price point! Think Ichiran Ramen style, with thin but chewy noodles. NOTE THAT the broth here is definitely not as heavy or rich, but I actually liked this version more... but that's personal preference.
Zaru Soba ($10.00): Great quality of Soba - the noodles weren't limp or overcooked. Similar to the Ramen noodles, the Soba noodles had a nice chew to them. The dipping sauce was just the right amount of saltiness and umami!
- OVERALL -
Great hidden gem, at least to me as of recent - there seems to be an established large fan base as the waiting list became very long very fast, and people kept coming to wait as we ate! Be sure to arrive early, or be ready to send someone to put your name down and wait. Give the Sashimi and Fried Chicken a try, and depending on your mood, try out the Hakata Ramen or Soba out!
I will absolutely be back to try out the rest of their menu!!