Sao Paulo 🇧🇷 Japanese restaurant | Tatami 🐙. Octopus balls

🏠 Izakaya Issa Restaurante 🗺️ Rua Barão de Iguape, 89 - Liberdade, São Paulo - SP, 01507-001 ✨ Two words: tatami seats and authentic takoyaki. This Liberdade gem checks all the boxes for a cozy izakaya vibe—think dim lighting, sake bottles lining the walls, and the sweet scent of grilled skewers. 🍢 The Takoyaki Revelation: Finally found takoyaki that doesn’t drown in weird sauces! Unlike TAKOYAKI8 (which slathers on mayo like it’s going out of style), Issa’s version is pure nostalgia: plump octopus chunks, fluffy batter, and a light drizzle of tonkatsu sauce. Topped with dancing bonito flakes and green onions—just like in Osaka. 🐙✨ • Udon Noodles: Opted for the non-spicy version, and wow—served in a savory sukiyaki broth. Thick, slippery noodles soak up the umami, perfect for warming up on a chilly night. 🍜 • Other dishes: Okonomiyaki was decent, but the katsu curry lacked crispness. Stick to the classics here. 🌿 Ambiance Details: Choose between the bar or traditional tatami seating. Pro tip: the floor tables have a hidden footwell, so no need to kneel—genius! 🧺 The entrance is low-key, but look for the sign across from Hotel Mirae. Arrived at 6:45 PM on Sunday and still had to wait—popular spot! 💰 Budget-Friendly Izakaya: • Takoyaki: ~25rs • Udon: 30rs • Total per person: 73rs. Steal for Liberdade, where most izakayas cost double. ⭐ Go for the takoyaki, stay for the tatami feels. Perfect for a casual date or group hang—just come early to avoid the wait. #AuthenticJapanese #TakoyakiGoals #TatamiDining #IzakayaVibes #OverseasEats