KEN HUNTS FOOD: The Izakaya Sushi 今井居酒屋 @ Tanjong Piandang, Perak.

Friday, March 6, 2020

The Izakaya Sushi 今井居酒屋 @ Tanjong Piandang, Perak.

Who would expect to find some seriously good Japanese food in the small fishing village of Tanjung Piandang... a short 20-minute drive away from Nibong Tebal. The Izakaya Sushi 今井居酒屋 has been around for quite some time and has strong presence on social media due to its uncommon and probably first in northern states to offer Mantis Prawn Sushi. One of the reasons that The Izakaya Sushi could constantly churn out this umami-deliciousness is the stable supply of this sea delicacy due to close proximity to the fishing village. But Mantis Prawn Sushi is not the only food offering at The Izakaya Sushi... it has way more than that to offer. It's easy to miss the place due to the absence of a proper signage but you will eventually find it since there's only a stretch of road for this village- The Izakaya Sushi can be found right opposite to SJKC Nam Hua.

Shako Moriawase (Rm 26/ 6 pcs)

Shako Don (Rm 25)

Salmon Ikura Don (Rm 22.90)

Salt-baked Mantis Prawns (Rm 8 each)

The Mantis Prawn Sushi (Shako in Japanese) runs out fast, especially on weekends so be there earlier if you wish to savor the Mantis Prawn Sushi. The Shako Moriawase is a good entry point, it comprises of both blanched Mantis Prawn Sushi and Tempura Mantis Prawn Sushi... both offer different texture and flavor. The Tempura version possessed the unique tempura fragrance and the texture seemed to be meatier as compared to the other variant... the flavor seemed to be bolder as well. The blanched version on the other hand, has a softer texture but bolder seafood flavor. Both were lightly brushed with Japanese sweet Soy Sauce before serving. Another proud creation by The Izakaya Sushi is the Shako Don- deep fried Mantis Prawns dressed in a sweet, Japanese-inspired sauce (with plenty of Onions) and served on a bed of warm Japanese rice. It almost felt like Teriyaki Chicken but a slight sweeter version. The Mantis Prawn had not done much in its aid in this dish except providing the firm, meaty bite. For a change, we also had the Salmon Ikura Don... which to our surprise, the Salmon was very fresh and the rice was generously topped with Salmon Roe. The portion was a little small but the flavors were big. All in all, we were very happy and satisfied with the meal quality here; definitely a place that you would not want to miss.