Izakaya Den is a gorgeous, two-story space that’s lit like a David Fincher
film and has one of the best patios in town. This place has atmosphere in
spades, something that's fairly unusual outside of downtown. It’s straight up
sexy - like silk sheets, candles, and Jodeci on shuffle sexy. If you’ve been
looking for a new date spot, you can stop looking.
As you might have already heard, the food is top-notch too. There’s something
at Izakaya Den to please everyone, and dishes like the duck croquettes and
tan-tan men noodles are particularly impressive. Also impressive is the fact
that Izakaya Den has carved out its own identity while living in the shadow of
its beloved older brother Sushi Den. Luckily, the service matches the decor
and the food. During our visits, two separate managers came by to check on us
and make sure everything was good. That's the kind of attention to customer
satisfaction that's all too rare these days.
Rare like Jodeci.
Food Rundown
Jalapeño Sashimi
Big, fat slices of kanpachi (amberjack) with delicious yuzu soy dressing and
thinly sliced jalapeno that keep the heat level in check. Are you eating this
right now? You should be.
Sushi
As the little brother to Sushi Den, you know the sushi is going to be good at
Izakaya. Whether it’s sashimi, the eel sauced caterpillar roll, or the red
dragon roll with seared tuna on top, you won’t be disappointed.
Yellowtail Collar (Hamakama)
Big fish with a damn good neck. Try pouring the ponzu sauce over instead of
dipping so the meat doesn’t fall apart. Great balance of crispy and soft
textures.
Miso Black Cod
A perfectly flaky piece of white fish glazed with a thick and tasty miso
sauce.
Duck Croquettes
Fck yes. We could eat these like donut holes, though we probably wouldn't
recommend it on a date. Then again, try it, and if it goes over well, propose.
Crispy Tuna
A light and delicious starter with all the eel sauce and roe you could want.
There’s a nice mix of crispy rice cake and silky tuna and avocado going on
here and we dig it.
Duck Udon
Fat udon noodles and juicy duck breast, served in what appears to be an
ancient metal pot. Get it. You’ll feel like a damn samurai.
Tan-tan Men
A street food cousin to the fancier duck udon and similar to Chinese Dandan
noodles, this dish came highly recommended by our server. He was right to
steer us this way, because these noodles are incredible. Add a soft egg on
top.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake
We don’t usually have dessert at Japanese spots, but this buttery, pineapple
cake is excellent. We're also in love with the lychee ice cream. No more
vanilla, ever.