Koala — Restaurant in Tokyo

What a lovely, unexpected experience. They began by letting me know that they would be full by 8, leaving me a full two hours to enjoy.

Somewhat confused and overwhelmed on my first day in Tokyo, I inquired about a 400yen omakase.

Same was my first taste, lightly sweet but not overwhelming in any way.

The first course was a marinated tuna dish, giving the fish a drier, at times almost candy like flavor that paired so well with its distinct flavor.

Next came a lovely sashimi plate, some house made pickles (particular lovely was the arrow like plant which I am unacquainted with, quartered lengthwise and exceptionally flavored), and a simple tempura dish.

Next came a lovely chicken plate, and finally a second sake and soba noodle dish. The liquid it was dipped in was elevated by an accent of smoke, which when paired with that particular sake, was surprisingly the highlight for me. The aftermath of my empty soba plate was a steaming and delicious fish stock, which is then poured with the remaining smoked soy liquid and drank from the cup. The sake completed the more complex flavors once more.

To the end, I found myself so pleased with all of my senses enjoying the lovely hospitality and flavors of the Koala.

What a welcoming...

It is rare to find a restaurant that serves food from Yamagata, and Koala does it excellently.

The staff are extremely friendly and welcoming, and the food is excellently prepared. The Imoni (taro soup) is definitely my favorite and they do it justice.

I highly...

Wowza. Excellent sushi at affordable prices. Close to my hostel and they are so friendly! I will probably end up here my next 6 night stay for sure! Very local so make sure if you dont speak Japanese to download the Google translate...