Jando S.
Yelp
Okonomiyaki is more common on the coasts (#1) than it is in Texas, so I was incredibly surprised to come across it in Austin, which is hardly a hotbed of Japanese cuisine (#2). The brainchild of Domonic Candy, Tiny Diner was met with little fanfare inside the now defunct Native Hostel and is now looking for a new home.
After enjoying a matcha latte or two from Idlewood coffee (#3), I met Chef Candy who noted his training in Japan, learning the culture and language and cooking techniques, and eventually convinced me to try his signature okonomiyaki. It turned out be fantastic. It was a good portion, complete with bento flakes, crispy edges, a decent amount of seafood, and a perfectly poached egg in the middle. Visually it was on point, but the flavor was definitely there. There were also also Japanese sandos, which I passed in favor of the okonomiyaki, an item I hadn't had in close to 2 years.
It is a shame that the entire operation went down with the building, displacing multiple businesses in the process. I do think that the scene is ripe with potential and I sincerely hope Chef Candy gets another shot at showcasing his tasty take on Japanese cuisine.
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(#1) Ok, LA/SF and NYC.
(#2) Also applicable to Houston.
(#3) https://www.yelp.com/biz/idlewild-coffee-austin-13