It has been a while since we wanted to try Japonica, located near Union Square, in Greenwich Village. Each time we passed by, the restaurant seemed packed, with sometimes a line outside. At that point, one may think that there must be a reason for it!
So here we are, thinking that we would have to wait; it was not the case and they sat us immediately. What we could not miss about the decor were the trees all around that gave a nice touch. The staff was very nice, polite and efficient. They first brought us a hot towel and then proceeded to take our order.
We started of with appetizers. First were the vegetable gyoza.
They were proposed steamed or fried; we picked fried to have a nice crunch to it. They came very hot! Inside, we could definitely taste edamame. Unfortunately, they were underseasoned. Fortunately though, we poured some soy sauce and its saltiness helped overcome it.
Then, we ordered the shrimp shumai:
They were big, with a nice shrimp on top of each and the filling being made of pork. Unfortunately, I did not like them: watery, they were also tasteless if not for the shrimp!
For the entrees, Jodi ordered avocado rolls:
Nothing extraordinary there, but we appreciated the ripe avocado.
On my side, I ordered the Uni Ika made of squid and sea urchin:
The last time I had Sea Urchin was in Malta in 1998! They were captured fresh, opened on the spot and eaten right away with a bit of lemon. So good! So I was excited this time! Unfortunately, it was not as expected! The squid was a bit tough and the sea urchin turned to a watery paste...
Well, this was not as good as what we expected: expensive and average. We were wondering if the continuous flow of customers was because there are not that many Japanese restaurants in this area!
Enjoy (...)!
If you like this post or the photos, feel free to share it using the toolbar below or to write a comment!
And Remember: I Just Want To Eat!
