Izakaya - Antigua Guatemala

Great dinner in Antigua! The cook was passionate, helpful and delightful! She was eager to help with food restrictions for the vegans and vegetarians in the group and to make changes if necessary. The food was cooked to order and delicious. The cook has checked us several times to make sure everything is okay. Would recommend if you wish a delicious Japanese food in Antigua with a wonderful atmosphere.

There is a certain look at a waiter's face when they ask you how the food is, and they know that the answer is 'damaging' because it is easy. Not arrogance; this is just a cross control of the simple facts that are that eating is crazy. The reserve ribs were seasoned and tempered with lime and so juicy. The tempura could have been perfect; Light and sharp as it should be. The girls who serve us were great and just took care of everything. They have welcomed us, and we are so grateful that they will speak to us a few English. Not cheap by Guatemalan or even antiguan standards, but we will come to the food for a while.

This was the best meal I’ve had in Antigua. Awesome. Why? because it was cooked with passion. Exquisite balance, poise and harmony of flavours. And they play great music. Ok so I’m biased: when I walked in, an Ella Fitzgerald track was playing which I’m old enough to have heard Ella singing live at Ronnie Scott’s in London back in the 70s. So what does Ella have in common with Izakaya?: soul. That’s what. Class. Deep commitment. An understanding of the life force and why authentic hospitality is rooted in the heart. I went into the restaurant a tourist looking for food and emerged as an enlightened being. Ok that’s a slight exaggeration ! but jeez louise this is one muther of a gastronomic experience. Go. Just go.

I did not enjoy the restaurant as much as other reviewers. First, it is pretty expensive for very small dishes, and even if the products are good quality, portions should be bigger for this price. Furthermore, the cuisine is tasty but nothing astonishing, most of the sauces are extensively based on miso and soy sauce, so everything taste nearly the same. And finally the aubergine was drowning is a super salty and sweet sauce. I am a huge fan of Japanese cuisine but I have been deceived by this restaurant.

Amazing little jewel in Antigua. Super fresh products and good service. Since I have fed the owners alone, where I like to serve half portions so that I can taste more dishes. Very recommended for those seeking high quality culinary experience. A few well thought-out dishes and let you try more.