Karaage at Ranman Shokudo in Ebisu

Karaage

Japanese fried chicken, karaage, to me is so much better than American fried chicken because it is usually boneless and is always tender. Karaage is usually marinated in sake and some other seasonings before being deep-fried. The sake helps to tenderize the meat.

I am recipe testing karaage for Postmark Chef in the USA and I always look forward to the tastings. Karaage is very popular in Tokyo at the moment and one restaurant to check out is Ranman Shokudo in Ebisu. The karaage here is made from thigh meat, making it all the more tender. This photo comes from Tarzan magazine issue 590.

Ranman Shokudo

Shibuya-ku, Ebisu Nishi 1-4-1

03-5849-4129

Ebisu Tachinomi Q

Tachinomi Q

Tachinomi interior

I first came upon this great standing bar about five years ago when it first opened. It had great reviews for being cheap, with great food, and a fun environment. It was exactly that. This is not your typical izakaya with Japanese fare but includes many tapa-style bites. The menu includes home-cured bacon, escargot, smoked butter toast, pork simmered in balsamico, and deep-fried octopus. The drink menu is extensive, including cocktails and whisky, but I stick to wine or sangria as it seems to be the best match with the food. The bar serves seven wines by the glass and is it is a busy place, the bottles are usually fresh. It is only a few minutes’ walk from the station, so perfect to stop by and have a drink and a few small plates if you are in the area.

Q

Shibuya-ku, Ebisu 4-4-2, Kuresuto Ebisu 1F

03-5793-5591

closed Sunday and holidays

17:00 – 4:00 a.m.