New menu from Izakaya “Yotteba” showcases the best of Japan’s evolving cuisine

Yotteba, a revolutionary Izakaya restaurant, has recently expanded their menu. With the recent openings of new sister locations in Sendai and Osaka Tenma in June, Yotteba now has 28 locations across Japan, as well as an international store opening on August 1st in the Philippines. Their new menu has introduced 69 new items to its menu since July 3rd, and together with the 57 existing menu items, the lineup has evolved to a total of 122 items, the largest ever.

5 new flavors of their specialty chicken wings have been added, doubling the amount to 10. These flavors include salt, consomme punch, powder of happiness, spicy, curry, butter and soy sauce, plum, bonito, pepper and cheese, and corn potage. 3 new flavors for the tsukune (meatballs) have also been added, as well as 6 new Chinese-style dishes, the revival of the popular horse sashimi imported from Kumamoto, and many more. We went to their Ebisu location in Tokyo to experience it for ourselves.

The interior of the shop gave a classic Izakaya vibe, with many posters and menus on the wall, as well as a lively environment. The staff was extremely helpful and welcoming.

Caesar salad: It had a different taste to many others I’ve had in America, with the dressing more mild and just a touch sweeter. It was a perfect light appetizer to eat before the chicken wings.

Chicken wings: Yotteba’s specialty chicken wings were definitely a highlight. Blending the iconic concept of an American chicken wing with flavorful classic Japanese spices makes it a special experience.

Gyoza: It was a perfect palette cleanser from the intense flavor of the chicken wings.

Tsukune: Was also a highlight. We decided on a 3-platter of plum and shiso, Mentaiko mayonnaise, and the yuzu pepper. Each meatball was distinct from one another, with the chicken perfectly seasoned to match.

Takoyaki: These octopus treats tasted as good as ever, the inside the perfect texture, comparable to Osaka’s famous takoyaki.

Horse sashimi: Decorated with garlic, chives and onions, this sashimi was chewy and delicious.

Karaage: Our closing dish was a classic karaage. The chicken was perfectly crunchy on the outside, and warm on the inside.

Overall, Yotteba was a wonderful experience with the perfect balance of classic Japanese foods and iconic western fusion. The flavors were dynamic and unique, with each giving a different experience than the last.