Cafe Japa Bowl — Restaurant in Saskatoon

THE FOOD:

We are moving to Toronto and as part of an extended farewell to Saskatoon we embarked on a “Farewell YXE Food Tour”. One of our stops just had to be Japa Bowl.

Our last lunch was bittersweet: we wanted to eat everything on the menu but of course had to choose carefully instead. We love Japa Bowl’s Japanese coffee (kohee) so started there, though we passed on the available whipped cream with drizzled caramel option (a pandemic pounds thing - lol). For our appetizer we managed to ignore the siren song of their killer Karaage and their outstanding Agadashi Tofu, choosing their Sui Gyoza (boiled dumplings). This is a “dish less travelled” for people choosing Japanese restos in Canada, but the pillowy soft dumpling wrap, flavourful filling and luscious broth makes this one of our all-time favs. For mains we chose two of their classics - superbly crispy and juicy tonkatsu on rice and succulent, decadent spicy BBQ pork belly slices on rice. So, so satisfying.

Japa Bowl’s foundational dish is their unique and oh-so-sublime Ramen. Jessica’s homemade broth (she only makes a specific amount fresh every day) graces each bowlful with complex layers of flavour that entice you to drain every drop - even when you’re already full to bursting - the appropriate way to pay tribute to great ramen (if you’ve ever seen the classic Japanese film Tampopo you’ll know what we are taking about here). Everything else on their menu is equally delicious - don’t get us started on our cravings for their Karaage and their limited time creations like Japanese Curry and cold summer ramen - they’re both to die for.

AMBIANCE:

The small (total pre-pandemic seating is about 20 people), unassuming space is owned and operated by Steve and Jessica, a husband and wife “dynamic duo” who want nothing more than to bring authentic Japanese Izakaya-style food to Saskatoon. Their food is simple, unpretentious, authentic and over-the-top delicious every time. Combining a meal with Japanese Sake, Korean Soju or Japanese beer makes for a great experience with friends, especially if you order lots of small dishes and take your time in true Izakaya style.

SERVICE:

Like the space the service is unpretentious, welcoming and scrupulously polite. The small staff (usually only two people are there on any given day - one serving and one cooking) are attentive but not obsequious, letting people enjoy the company at their table and, of course, the delicious food.

PRICE:

A hearty lunch (without alcohol but with tax and gratuity) runs anywhere from $25 - $30 per person. While one can eat dinner there for similar amounts we highly recommend trying their various sake choices (or other alcoholic beverages) to fully enjoy the Izakaya experience. Liquor prices vary depending on what you order, but are very much in line with what you would pay at any restaurant.

SUMMARY: The food here is outstanding - top to bottom - and will have you coming back over and over again. If Japa Bowl were located in Toronto, Vancouver or Montreal there would be long line-ups out the door every day. Saskatoon is lucky to have this Broadway gem in...

Dearest Reviewers,

It is not often that one stumbles upon a culinary jewel so exquisite that it leaves one utterly enchanted. Yet, such was my recent experience at Japa Bowl, a delightful establishment nestled in the heart of Saskatoon.

My dear fiancé, always in pursuit of the finest flavors, indulged in the Spicy Chicken Karaage Ramen—a dish that, I must confess, I approached with some trepidation. You see, my palate is as delicate as a morning bloom, and even the slightest hint of spice can send it into a tizzy. However, the ramen's spice was a revelation, striking the perfect balance between warmth and flavor. It was neither too timid nor overly bold, but rather a harmonious dance of heat and taste. The marinated egg, oh, the marinated egg! Never before have I encountered such a sublime specimen, rich and velvety, it was nothing short of perfection.

As for myself, I opted for the Karaage Chicken Udon, a dish that, while less fiery, was no less delightful. The flavors were gentle, yet oh so comforting, like a soft blanket on a winter's night. It is the sort of fare that one craves when in need of solace—simple, yet profoundly satisfying.

We could not resist the allure of the pan-fried gyoza, and I daresay, they were the finest I have ever had the pleasure of tasting. Each bite was a symphony of flavor, the accompanying sauce a masterstroke that brought the dish to life. I find myself dreaming of them still, wondering how I might recreate such a delicacy in my own kitchen, though I fear I may never succeed.

The atmosphere at Japa Bowl is one of warmth and welcome, with the staff displaying a level of care and dedication that is all too rare in this fast-paced world. Their passion for their craft is evident in every dish that graces the table.

Yet, dear readers, I would be remiss if I did not mention a few minor details that, while not detracting from the overall experience, do warrant attention. The decor, while charming, could benefit from a slight refresh, particularly the chairs, one of which creaked rather ominously beneath me. And though the wooden ladles and spoons are a charming touch, I must confess to a certain aversion to the taste of wood, a quirk of mine, perhaps, but one that I could not entirely ignore.

Finally, a word of caution to those visiting this delightful establishment—do mind your step as you enter and exit, for the door has a rather alarming tendency to swing open with great vigor, nearly sending me toppling into the path of two unsuspecting diners.

In conclusion, Japa Bowl is a hidden gem that deserves to be celebrated far and wide. The food is a triumph, the service impeccable, and it is a place that I shall most certainly return to. Until then, dear readers, I remain,

Your faithful servant,

Lady...

I cannot say enough good things about this place and the owners. I have been going weekly or multiple times a week for a few months now. It's always the same guy working and he is always bright and happy and the service is always lightning fast. I have called multiple times right before close and ive gotten served everytime. The last time I did it I called 9 minutes before close and he was smiling and happy to see me and my spicy bbq pork ramen came loaded and with a extra piece of kamaboko on top. The real fruit smoothies they offer are awesome, I've tried the beach party now I can't wait to try the others . The ingredients are always fresh and high quality. No added msg is also a big deal to me because i have crohns disease so preservatives/contraversial additives really make it worse. I've never felt sick after eating there or been concerned about the quality of the food. Definitely worth a try if you have...