Awai

How can one describe Awai? My Tokyo colleagues had referred to it as an elegant pub, though clearly the Japanese acceptation of the word pub is somewhat different from that of the old continent. What stroke me when entering Awai is its cozy, quiet atmosphere, conducive to a pleasant conversation wit...h my hosts. The second impression that comes to mind as the first dishes are served is elegance and aestheticism. The variation on the squid (いか) and octopus (たこ) was simply stunning, exquisitely plated and consisting of the freshest possible products. Any pub in Japan will offer some form of sashimi (さしみ) to go with a bier, but Awai brings the concept to an unprecedented level of sophistication. The fish is cut to perfection, the quality is unparalleled, and plating is elegant. The tuna (マグロ) and the sea scallop (ホタテ) literally melt in your mouth, revealing their delicate flavors. It is noteworthy that unlike any average pub, service at Awai is at par with the quality of the dishes, both effective and professional. The waiter explains, demystifies, suggests in an articulate, yet formal fashion. To summarize, Awai is an amazing journey to Japanese pub culture, and a rediscovery of sashimi, which will make any other venue a rather bland and dull experience.

Visited March 2018