Boston | FuGaKyu, a highly popular Japanese restaurant
đŁ Hourai: Brooklineâs Vibrant Japanese GemâWhere Innovation Meets Tradition Brookline is full of culinary surprises, and Hourai stands out as a beloved Japanese spot blending creative dishes with a charming atmosphere. From traditional decor to private booths and even a koi pond at the entrance, itâs easy to see why it draws crowdsâfamilies, couples, and locals alike. While the menu leans slightly Americanized (a hit with non-Japanese diners), thereâs plenty of authentic fare to satisfy purists too. đ The Dishes We Loved Chirashi đ A must for sashimi fans. Thick, fresh slices of fish (think tuna, salmon, yellowtail) pile high over seasoned riceâeach bite is a burst of briny, melt-in-your-mouth flavor. Itâs hearty, satisfying, and a classic done right. Kamameshi đ A rare find: Japanese (pot-cooked rice) infused with tender beef and its savory broth. Served tableside by staff in traditional Japanese attire, they lift the lid to release a cloud of steam, then mix the rice and beef to ensure every grain soaks up the flavor. Itâs comfort food elevatedâwarm, rich, and deeply satisfying. Blue Fin Crudo đ A sleek, modern starter. Ultra-tender bluefin tuna paired with crisp onion, capers, and a bright vinaigrette-like sauce. Itâs light, zesty, and perfect for waking up your palateâequal parts Japanese precision and Western flair. Wagyu Shrimp Tempura Maki đ„© A indulgent roll. Seared wagyu (with a hint of char from the torch) wraps around a whole shrimp tempura, topped with a sprinkle of caviar. The contrastârich, buttery beef, crispy tempura, and briny caviarâworks beautifully. Crispy Tuna Bites đ¶ïž A crowd-pleaser (especially with American friends). Tuna pieces fried to a crisp, tossed in a creamy, slightly spicy sauce. Itâs bold, addictive, and way more delicious than it sounds. đ Fun for All Tastes Koibito Maki đ„ A creamy, Americanized roll: avocado, shrimp tempura, and sweet crab. Itâs rich, satisfying, and leans sweetâno wonder itâs a hit with non-traditionalists. đ Tips for Your Visit Deals: Check é„ćą (Fantuan) for discountsâuse code âBOSTONâ for $7 off, a great way to save. Parking: Easy street parking nearbyâno stress hunting for spots. Vibe: Private booths, traditional decor, and koi at the door make it perfect for dates or family meals. Hourai balances innovation and tradition, with something for everyoneâwhether you crave authentic sashimi or creative rolls. Its popularity is well-earned, and with those deals? Itâs a no-brainer. đ Hourai Brookline, MA (look for the koi pondâyouâve found it) #BrooklineEats #BostonJapanese #FusionFlavors