Exploring new culinary spots is always an exciting adventure, especially when it involves authentic Japanese cuisine. Recently, we had the opportunity to dine at Izakaya Japanese Restaurant in Laoag City, a place that offers a unique, traditional Japanese dining experience. Here’s a rundown of our experience:

Ambience

From the moment we walked in, we were impressed by the restaurant’s ambiance. The interior design strikes a perfect balance between modern and traditional, creating a cozy yet elegant atmosphere. A unique feature that stood out was the requirement to remove our footwear before entering the dining area. This practice aligns with traditional Japanese customs and adds a touch of authenticity to the dining experience.

The Dishes

However, when it comes to the food, our experience was a mix of hits and misses.

Gyoza

Our meal started with the Gyoza. Unfortunately, this dish was a bit of a letdown. It had a rather bland taste, lacking the flavorful kick that we usually expect from Gyoza.

Karaage

Next, we tried the Karaage. This dish fared much better in our books. The Karaage was very flavorful and well-cooked, making it a satisfying choice, especially considering its price point.

Tempura Curry and Katsu Curry

We also had the Tempura Curry and Katsu Curry. Both dishes were simple and enjoyable, but didn’t particularly stand out. It felt like there was something missing that could have elevated these dishes to the next level.

Butterfly Pea Drink (Please Correct me with the name of the drinks)

For drinks, we ordered the Butterfly Pea Drink, which was quite pleasant. It was not overly sweet, making it a refreshing complement to our meal.

The Experience

Our total bill for two people was around 1500 PHP. We felt that the price was reasonable, but there are other Japanese restaurants in Ilocos Norte offering a better dining experience for a similar price.

One area of improvement would be the restaurant’s tableware. The plates were extremely lightweight, causing the food to nearly flip over. A sturdier set of plates would definitely enhance the overall dining experience.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Izakaya Japanese Restaurant offers a good atmosphere and has its high points in terms of dining. However, there is room for improvement, particularly with some of the dishes and the tableware. For now, while it’s a decent option for Japanese cuisine in Laoag City, we believe there are still other Japanese restaurants in the area that provide a better balance of taste and value for money.

We hope to see some improvements and look forward to potentially visiting again in the future.

Until next time, happy dining!

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Kick things off with one of these all-time favorites:

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Step 2: Choose your side.
Complete your meal with one of these well-loved options:

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A Salad to Savor: The Gastro Station Salad

The new menu shines brightly with the introduction of their Gastro Station Salad, a dish that has quickly become a crowd pleaser. It’s a symphony of sweet and lively flavors, artfully combining cherry tomatoes, candied walnuts, diced cucumbers, and crisp apples. These ingredients are tossed in a honey balsamic vinaigrette that provides a perfect balance of tangy and sweet. Topped with delicate shavings of parmesan cheese, the salad offers a refreshing yet indulgent appetizer or light meal. It’s a testament to how simplicity, when executed brilliantly, can bring the most satisfaction.

Warm Up with Kimchi Jjigae

For those seeking comfort in a bowl, look no further than the new Kimchi Jjigae. This spicy, hearty stew is a nod to Korean cuisine, with a Filipino twist. Laden with tender pieces of pork belly and soft blocks of tofu, it’s enriched further by the umami richness of enoki mushrooms. The stew’s base is a vibrant kimchi broth that delivers an invigorating spicy kick, ideal for warming the heart and soul. This dish embodies the essence of comfort food, making it perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.

Arroz Ala Cubana: A Savory Delight

The introduction of Arroz Ala Cubana to the menu is a testament to The Gastro Station's commitment to offering diverse and flavorful dishes. This savory classic is composed of a perfectly balanced plate featuring minced beef paired with a serving of fluffy white rice. The dish is topped with a sunny side up egg, its yolk adding a rich creaminess when mixed into the rice and beef.

Adding a touch of sweetness and contrast are perfectly fried bananas, which complement the savory elements of the dish. This combination creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you are looking for a hearty brunch or a delightful dinner, Arroz Ala Cubana is a must-try.


Truffle Mushroom Pasta: A Creamy Indulgence

For those with a penchant for pasta, the Truffle Mushroom Pasta is poised to win your heart. This dish features Fusili pasta generously coated in a creamy truffle cheese sauce. The truffle essence imparts a luxurious and earthy aroma that elevates the pasta dish to gourmet levels.

Meaty mushrooms are tossed into the mix, adding a robust and savory depth that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Each bite of the Truffle Mushroom Pasta is an indulgent experience that melds the creamy, nutty notes of the truffle with the substantial chewiness of the mushrooms and the tender fusilli. It's a dish that satisfies deeply and leaves you craving more.

 

We got to ask the owner about the meaning of "fika," a Swedish term that generally refers to taking a break, typically involving coffee and some treats like pastries or sandwiches. It's more than just a coffee break, though; it's a social institution and a cherished part of Swedish culture. 

Kani Korean Sandwich: A delectable sandwich filled with Korean-style crab meat and fresh vegetables, all brought together by their signature homemade sauce.Hungarian Korean Sandwich: A unique blend of hearty Hungarian flavors and Korean-inspired ingredients, topped with their delicious homemade sauce.

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