Dojo Izakaya Trending on Burnet

Posted by on Apr 24, 2014 in Openings

Dojo Izakaya - Chefs Rick and Moto

Dojo Izakaya – Chefs Rick and Moto

Izakaya is the name for a popular phenomenon in Japan: smallish restaurants that cater to beer and sake and small plates meant to be shared, socialization, and late-night reverie.

The Austin version can be found on Burnet just south of 183 at the site of the former Tokyo Steakhouse. It’s called The Dojo Sake Bar & Izakaya. Like many others whose knowledge of Japanese culture comes from repeated viewing of the Karate Kid, I always thought a Dojo was a school where karate and other martial arts were taught. That much is correct. But in the broader sense, a Dojo is a place to learn; and if you want to learn the wonders of Izakaya, then Dojo Izakaya is the place to go.

It’s open late, till 2am on weekends, and from initial tastings, the food is exceptional. Most plates are under $10, with the exception of some of the gigantic Ramen bowls.

Lots of dishes are based on popular Japanese street foods like the Ojonomiyaki Fries that are waffle fries with amazing flavors. The Riku Niku is a dish of seared ribeye slices with truffle butter and a sauce that provided more first bite pop than I’ve had in a while. Absolutely recommend.

Chefs Rick and Moto are seasoned pros in their early 30’s who are passionate about this concept. And man does it show. They could use some more business, and I do hope you’ll give it a try.

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