🍜 Slurp Up Savory Bowls In Susuru
“Susuru means slurp in Japanese, which is something we encourage,” clarifies Kenny Ly, an owner of Susuru, “Slurping is a Japanese expression that shows you’re enjoying the food. That is our goal.” This izakaya is planted near the Disney area, serving aesthetic tapas and quirky cocktails. Though this area is infamously flooded with tourists, Susuru offers a spot that caters to the local crowd. They deliver fun twists to traditional dishes, featuring Japanese street food instead of sushi.
“Irasshaimase! (いらっしゃいませ)” exclaims the staff, as you step foot into the Japanese-inspired gastropub. The phrase translates to “Welcome to the store,” demonstrating tentative hospitality. The restaurant encapsulates Showa Era themes, portrayed through retro decor and throwback, tin signage. The ambiance feels as if it’s been ripped from an inner city alleyway in Tokyo, showcasing Asian pop culture pieces and colorful visuals.
Since opening about a year ago, the izakaya has kept a fairly consistent menu. However, they’ve developed new food items to ring in the Fall season. Check out these chopstick bites!
🥒 Spiral Cucumber
This Kyoto-style, pickled cucumber sits atop a spicy sesame dressing. The cucumber is refreshingly juicy, accentuated by the sweet-spicy taste of the sauce. The charming presentation features a spiraling cut on a unique, oblong plate.
🥓 Bacon Asparagus
These skewered bites are composed of bacon-wrapped asparagus, grilled over Binchōtan charcoal to execute a smokey flavor without an overpowering ash taste. This dish is optimal if you are craving a heartier bite.
🍗 Chicken Skewer
This dish features a chicken tender with creamy Kewpie mayo. The grated egg yolk had a pungent taste that complimented the smoothness of the drizzle.
🥟 Gyoza With Wings
This house-made chicken gyoza features a crispy skirt, alongside a ponzu dipping sauce. The gastropub breaks down chicken daily with a prep chef who comes in every morning, ensuring freshness of the chicken.
🐟 Salmon
The focal point of this dish is King Salmon topped with green miso. The salmon is grilled over Binchōtan charcoal, offering a hint of smokey flavor. The green miso delivered a subtle tangy taste, in tandem with lime.
🍙 Onigiri Bowl
This Yaki Onigiri Chazuke features a rice ball topped with mentaiko, in a paste-like texture. This interactive dish allows diners to pour tea broth into their bowl. The slightly nutty flavor of the broth complimented the salty taste of the mentaiko.
Turn up with the Soju Umeboshi, a cocktail composed of Umi Soju, topped with bonito flakes. This peculiar cocktail has a fishy flavor that I’m not familiar with. However, fans of savory cocktails, such as Bloody Mary’s, would probably enjoy its unique taste.
The retro vibes and throwback Japanese decor makes Susuru a chill spot for after-work hangouts. The welcoming vibes are pronounced with a communal table that allows strangers to connect with each other and share a meal. When you’re in the area, skip a trip to a tourist trap and opt for a spot like Susuru to slurp up a savory bowl of ramen!
