No One Should Miss Out on Kanpai Izakaya 😭

When it comes to satisfying hearty cravings with authentic Japanese cuisine in Halifax, Kanpai Izakaya stands unrivaled as the gold standard. This beloved spot has earned its reputation not just for serving delicious food, but for catering perfectly to those with big appetites—offering generous portions, bold flavors, and a menu that encourages sharing (or indulging solo, no judgment here). From the moment you step through its doors, you’re greeted by the warm glow of paper lanterns 🏮, the inviting aroma of grilled meats 🍢 and savory broths 🍲, and a vibe that feels both casual and celebratory. It’s no wonder locals and visitors alike keep coming back, often leaving with full bellies and plans to return soon.​ One of Kanpai’s most distinctive offerings is its selection of sushi rolls, which take a unique twist by using purple rice instead of the traditional pure white sushi rice. Now, let’s get this straight: purple rice does have a slightly different profile than the classic variety. It’s less fragrant, lacking that subtle floral note you might expect from high-quality sushi rice seasoned with vinegar and sugar. But what it lacks in fragrance, it makes up for in texture and character. The purple rice 🍙 has a pleasant chewiness, with a nutty undertone that adds depth to every bite. It holds together beautifully in each roll, providing a sturdy base for the fresh fish, crisp vegetables, and creamy sauces that top it. Whether you’re diving into a spicy tuna roll 🌶️, a California roll loaded with avocado 🥑 and crab, or a specialty roll piled high with tempura shrimp and unagi, the purple rice brings a unique dimension that keeps you coming back for more. And let’s talk about portion size—these rolls aren’t skimpy. Each order arrives on a platter piled high, with 8-10 substantial pieces that could easily serve two people as part of a shared meal, or satisfy one very hungry diner on their own.​ But Kanpai Izakaya isn’t just about sushi—far from it. The menu is a treasure trove of Japanese comfort food, designed to fill you up and leave you satisfied. From sizzling hot plates to steaming bowls of ramen, every dish feels crafted with care and generosity in mind. One standout category is their yakitori 🍢, or grilled skewers, which are absolute must-tries. Juicy chicken thighs glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, tender beef tongue with a sprinkle of shichimi togarashi, and crispy pork belly that melts in your mouth—each skewer is grilled to perfection over an open flame, imparting that irresistible smoky flavor. And they don’t hold back on quantity: you can order them by the skewer, but many regulars opt for the “moriawase” platter 🥘, which comes with a variety of 10-12 skewers, making it ideal for sharing (or tackling alone if you’re really hungry).​ Then there are the hearty mains that define Japanese home cooking. Their tonkatsu 🍖, a breaded and fried pork cutlet, arrives as a massive piece of meat—crunchy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside—served with a mountain of shredded cabbage and a side of tangy tonkatsu sauce for dipping. The katsu curry 🍛 is another crowd favorite: the same crispy cutlet smothered in a rich, aromatic curry sauce with a hint of sweetness, served over a heaping bowl of rice that soaks up every last drop of sauce. And let’s not forget the ramen 🍜. Kanpai’s tonkotsu ramen comes with a creamy, collagen-rich broth that’s been simmered for hours, loaded with tender chashu pork, marinated soft-boiled egg, nori, and spring onions. The portion is so generous that even those with the biggest appetites might struggle to finish it all—but trust us, you’ll want to try. #foodie #travel #wow