Café Sardine morphs into Iwashi Izakaya in the evening, serving fine Japanese tapas sized dishes carefully prepared in view by chef Hachiro Fujise. Café Sardine’s izakaya started off as a “pop up” concept that wasn’t intended to stick around for the longterm, but its popularity however, forcefully made it into a staple of Japanese tapas in Montreal today. After working in restaurants such as Marben and Guu, the Founder and chef Hachiro Fujise decided to move to Montreal to create an eclectic and healthy Asian cuisine free of MSG and heavy seasoning.
For a popular café and restaurant that only hosts about 20 people, my friend and I were luckily able to snag a spot to get a taste of what the hype is about over their Japanese tapas. I was very pleased to be seated right next to the kitchen, which is a part of their open concept of having all the customers to see the chef preparing their food. The menu isn’t extensive, but the choice is very carefully selected so that each small dish is delectable.
Sakerinha
Not only does each dish combine interesting ingredients, but it also comes beautifully served. You can either choose a series of different types of small dishes and ramen, or you can opt to choose the Omakase (5 shotgun sized tapas, a choice of ramen, and desert) shared for two. We decided to order several dishes that weren’t included in the omakase, as well as a ramen.But first, we had to start off with the Sake cocktails. I still don’t know which was better, the Sake Mule (sake, vodka, ginger syrup) or the Sakerinha (sake, cucumber syrup, lime). I think I’d have to choose the Sakerinha just because the thought of a sake/caipirinha combination is insane!
Mackarel
The first dish that was served was the Mackerel topped with a ponzu sauce and seabuckthorns. At the same time, they brought some Kimchi (fermented vegetables with a variety of seasonings), which added a great tang to accompany the fish.
Kimchi
Then, came the beautiful Salmon Tataki Perfection (seared salmon, served with pear, and avocado sauce). I didn’t think that this could be topped off, but then arrived the Tuna Tartare, served with green shiso, wasabi and cranberries.
Salmon Tataki Perfection
At that point, we decided to order some hot Gekkeikan Sake, which came served in a red teapot. It was the first time I’d seen sake served with such a fun and innovative twist. To finish off, we had a Vegetable Ramen (served with bok choy, eggplant, tofu) and I must say that was the best ramen I’ve ever tasted!
Vegetable ramen
Ultimately, Iwashi Izakaya is a great and fun experience for anyone interested in beautifully presented and delicious Japanese food. Bring your friend, lover, mother or brother-its food worth sharing and trying again and again and again.
Tuna Tartare
Izakaya Iwashi
9 Fairmount Est, Montreal, QC
(514) 802 -8899
Tuesday-Saturday: 18:30 pm – 23:00 pm
Monday-Sunday: closed
WRITTEN BY CARLA MAVADDAT
IMAGES BY CARLA MAVADDAT