Waltham Treasure Izakaya 🏮 Ponzu Izakaya

🍣 Waltham’s Hidden Gem: Korean-Chinese-Japanese Fusion That Hits the Chinese Palate Tucked on Moody Street, this tiny spot (run by a Korean-Chinese couple) flies under the radar—but it’s a lifesaver for Brandeis students craving authentic flavors. With standout sushi, hearty Korean stone pot rice, and even spicy dry pot, it’s a one-stop shop for satisfying diverse cravings. 🌟 Must-Order Dishes (Across All Cuisines) 🍱 Japanese Highlights Pink Lady Roll 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 • Mango, asparagus, and tempura shrimp wrapped in rice—fresh, crisp, and slightly sweet • The perfect balance of creamy mango and crunchy tempura—addictive enough to order two Richard Special Roll 🌟🌟🌟🌟 • Black pepper-marinated tuna with avocado—unexpectedly bold, peppery kick • A fun twist on classic sashimi rolls (ask about weekly specials—they’re often creative!) Sashimi 🌟🌟🌟🌟 • Fresh, thick-cut fish (salmon, tuna, yellowtail) delivered weekly—no fishy aftertaste • Better than many pricier Waltham sushi spots 🍚 Korean Standouts Dolsot Bibimbap (Stone Pot Rice) 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 • The go-to when you’re indecisive: mountains of veggies (spinach, carrots, mushrooms) + choice of meat • The star? Crispy, charred rice crust at the bottom—scrape every bit with a spoon Kimchi Chigae (Kimchi Tofu Stew) 🌟🌟🌟🌟 • Spicy, bubbling stew with soft tofu and fermented kimchi—warms you up on cold days • Pair with a side of rice to soak up the broth Tofu Kimchi Jeyuk Bokum 🌟🌟🌟🌟 • Spicy-sweet pork stir-fried with kimchi and tofu—insanely • Tangy, garlicky, and slightly fermented—tastes like homemade Korean comfort food 🌶️ Chinese Bonus: Spicy Dry Pot Customizable with veggies, meat, and noodles—sauce is slightly sweet (not Sichuan-style, but delicious) Great for sharing—ask for extra spice if you prefer heat 💡 Honorable Mentions Scallion Pancake 🌟🌟🌟🌟 • Chewy, crispy edges with plenty of scallions—dip in soy-vinegar sauce Katsu (Chicken/Pork) 🌟🌟🌟 • Thin, crispy breading with tender meat—curry dipping sauce is mild and creamy 📍 Practical Details for Brandeis Students Vibe: • Tiny, spotless space with 4–5 tables—cozy for 2–4 people • Owners are friendly and chatty (ask for recommendations!) Lunch Specials: • Weekdays 11 AM–3 PM: $10–12 for bibimbap or sushi combos—perfect for quick campus breaks Parking: • Street parking on Moody St (free after 6 PM) Price: • $25/person for Korean dishes; $30–35 if ordering sushi/sashimi • Great value for portion sizes and quality 🌟 Final Verdict: 4.5/5 (Waltham’s Best Kept Secret) This spot doesn’t need viral hype—it lets the food speak for itself. Whether you’re craving sushi, kimchi stew, or a spicy dry pot, it nails every cuisine. Brandeis students, count yourselves lucky—this is your new go-to. 🥢 #WalthamEats #BrandeisFood #FusionRestaurant #BostonHiddenGems #KoreanJapanese