HAMADA OF JAPAN
Restaurant Review
Reviewed: 10/19/99

Step into the Orient! Hamada of Japan has seven locations in town. The family owned restaurant offers a fine Japanese cuisine. Their fresh ingredients are evident in every dish prepared. Start with some yaki-tori, chicken barbecued on a stick with a delicate soy flavor. My favorite, yaki soba, is fine soba noodles pan fried with cabbage, onions, bean sprouts and topped with grated ginger. Or if meat is your delight, try the Ton Katsu. A juicy pork loin steak breaded and deep fried, served on a bed of sliced cabbage with a special sauce. Traditional white "sticky" rice accompanies each meal, as do Japanese relish and miso based soups.

Looking for sushi? Look no further...here you'll find sashimi and sushi made to order at their sushi bar. They also have tappan yaki tables for parties looking for an adventure with their meal. Talented chefs cut up, cook up and serve up a facinating presentation right before your eyes.

There is a small bar in each location which has an extensive collection of Japanese beers like Ashi, and Sapporo. Or try your taste with saki. Drunk cold in the summer and served hot in the winter it'll certainly warm you up no matter what time of year.

The atmosphere is far east enchantment, casual and entertaining. Tatami mats in some small private rooms, to tappan yaki tables for 12, or quiet cozy tables for two. This place has something for everyone. The food is excellent as is the service. The prices are moderate.