kagu ra zaka (South Yarra)

Reviews of the place available online are really misleading, perhaps written by those clearly not in the know of Japanese cuisine. The webby proclaims the chef as a former contestant on Iron Chef which would speak of some level of competence. Perhaps a chef who has lost his fire and passion? (influenced by Aussie Tv's current obsession with Gordon Ramsey) The food we had was certainly edible and wouldn't be classified as junk. However, I take issue with the fact that serving sizes were inadequate and the place pretentious with the overall dining experience. I am currently writing a term essay worth 50% of my mark so I shan't go into a lengthy discourse on how I utterly dissatisfied I was with my dinner.

In a broad brush. Not recommended. I can't even bring myself to call it an Izakaya, much less fine dining. Stay away from the sukiyaki and the sashimi.. terrible value.

Food: 5.5/10
Service: 5/10 (we were sitting there 10 min without tea being poured and it had to be asked for)

Note to self: don't ever believe these self-assuming Aussie hacks when it comes to a critique of Asian cuisine. Grrr!