There’s something a little muddled, peculiar even, about going out to dinner to cook your own food.
And then being slugged with the bill for the privilege.
There used to be restaurants in the 1970s where people chose an over-priced steak from a window, before going about destroying it on a communal barbecue with a side of pre-mixed salads.
Sure, it was short-lived fad. But the Japanese have found a way to make it attractive.
It’s difficult to mess up a thinly-sliced cut of wagyu, and the idea of Japanese barbecue is to accompany the food with a beer or sake of choice, and linger over the aromas while the conversation takes shape around you.
This is a social occasion, and the secret is in the marinades and condiments.
Shinbashi Yakiniku on Kingston Rd at Underwood cheats a little, using some Korean and Chinese tricks in their sauces and food options.
But a subtle sesame seed through the wagyu, shallots with a delicate soy on the chicken, and a side dish of soy or soybean paste to dip the cooked product is delightful.
When ordering a platter, you might feel it’s a bit light. Rest assured however, that it’s more filling than it looks.
If you’re still not convinced, the restaurant does an “all you can eat” option on Saturday and Sunday nights. You won’t get the premium meat cuts, but it’s a great way to taste the variety of meats and vegetables.
Some things will come from left-field such as a salmon or seaweed porridge.
But lotus chips and chicken karage make a great starter – just be sure not to overdo the deep-fried early. Take the full time of 90 minutes and pace yourself into the grilled pork belly and miso-flavoured chicken thigh.
Be warned: The “all you can eat” nights come with a $45 price tag, but it is an enjoyable experience with a broad array of flavours to tantalise the palate.
And seriously, nobody wants to be cleaning that grill when you’re done. Leave the washing up to the trained crew, and enjoy yourself.
Kanpai!
