Hi-Fi Izakaya — Restaurant in Lancaster

If you don’t fit there vibes then don’t go. This was the second time we went and will not be going back.

The aesthetics look really cool there but honestly the server was so rude. He clearly had judgement on us from the moment we sat down and the food was just ok. I’ll list later what we all got and what we did and didn’t like. But first our serving experience that was bad enough to take away a star.

We showed up on a Thursday night for a friends birthday and jokingly asked if the waiter would sing happy birthday and he instantly had a stand off attitude and was rude to everyone when we were a happy and friendly table. We were a party of 6 so automatic large party 20% tip and I think he knew that so didn’t give 2 craps about us and rarely came over to check in when it wasn’t busy there to begin with. Everyone would have had at least 2-3 more drinks if the service was good and he was checking. One person was ordering and changed their mind as they were giving their order and asked to change….you would have thought you asked for the moon.

Our food came out all over the place. The apps did not come out first. Some peoples apps and main dishes came out at the same time while others didn’t come for another 5-10 mins and my curry came out cold.

Food:

The cucumbers are DELICIOUS! Beef Goyza is SO good! The cucumber and goyza were the reason we went back!

Udon Carbonara was ok- just Asian noodles with Italian flavor

Bluefin Sashimi- sauce tasted like black licorice

Brisket Gyūdon- it was ok. Nothing to write home about

Curry Mazemen- it was good but nothing crazy! Definitely spicy!! Very little meat in it.

Kara-age Chicken- dry friend chicken

dumplings were pretty average but good!

They also don’t serve ramen until after 9pm. Which was disappointing! It was SO good the last time we went!!

Overall not the best not the worst and it would have been a 3 star if it weren’t for the terrible service and rude attitude. We will not be coming back after our serve. I wish I could remember his name because they definitely need to have a...

Hi-Fi Izakaya doesn’t just offer curated cocktails and vibey music but your tastebuds will go on a unique and incredible adventure if you decide to sample from their sound bites menu. My friend and I shared 6 plates between us and felt very satisfied with the portions. We had an extremely hard time choosing a favorite dish but we think the Chili dumplings might have the win (the sauce they come with was out of this world). We also enjoyed the Kyuri Suinomono (the pickled cucumbers) for their unique spice and the contrasting creamy sauce. The Xo broccolini were an enjoyable fresh element to the night and provided a concentrated grilled flavor. The Wagyu Menchi Meatballs were super flavorful and everything you’d expect them to be. The curry fries were tasty and very unique but in a way a bit disappointing for me…they seemed less complex than the other dishes. The Kara-age chicken which can also be ordered at Issei Noodle never disappoint and were extremely crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Also the yuzu mayo is a must when given the choice of sauces. To finish the night we had Matcha mochi and they were exactly what I wanted and were expecting (delicious). I would absolutely recommend checking this place out for a date night or with a larger group. The menu allows not just for a typical night out to dinner but also a unique experience...

After many recent visits, I felt compelled to leave my first google review ever about this wonderful place!

This will be divided into two parts: First off, I once lived in Hawaii and when I left I lamented I would likely not be able to find a great spot to get Katsu near me in rural Pennsylvania. Izakaya (and Issei Noodle) has absolutely eliminated that worry and it’s become a weekly staple where the Katsu (and all the other food), drinks, music, and general vibes exceed my expectations every time.

Additionally the staff is excellent, and in particular I want to shout out Katlyn who’s been our server many times. She’s always very enthusiastic, has a great sense of humor, is super knowledgeable about the menu and makes great cocktails! Upon hearing my friend was a bit tired one evening she reappeared shortly after with a perfectly made latte that wasn’t even a menu offering??? No idea how she does it! Bonus points for saving my entire family from that burning building one handed!!!

I wish the best to the Izakaya team. This is one of the best spots in Lancaster, Southeast PA in general, and I’ll definitely keep...