Savory Shin

I've been wanting to try Shin Okinawa Izakaya in Torrance ever since I read a stellar review last December in the Los Angeles Times. Last night, I finally made the trek with Mark and a Japanese-American friend. Why Okinawan food? Why not 寿司or ラーメン?

When I worked in the Motomachi district of Yokohama (often billed as the Beverly Hills of Japan), around the corner from my English school was a lovely little Okinawan izakaya called 葉月(Hazuki). I fell in love with this place: laid-back atmosphere, interesting offerings, decent prices, and great lunch sets. Whenever I visit Yokohama, this is a must for one of my many culinary stops (Pompadour is always first on the list, then Mr. Donut).

Upon entering Shin, I was instantly transported back to my favorite Motomachi haunt. Although I wanted to start off with some Awamori (lovingly referred to as "that damn Japanese firewater" by Mark), I settled on the less-potent Orion. Ordering took some time because, well, I wanted to eat everything.

I was only disappointed with one item. Read on for details...

• Goya Champuru - Gotta love the bite of that bitter melon.
• Raftei - Perfect in its fatty goodness.
• Okinawa Soba - The noodles were かたいjust how I like them, and the fish broth superb.
• Tamagoyaki - With an Okinawan twist, this was still sweet but a meal in itself.
• Karaage - This is the ONLY item I don't recommend. One of my old Motomachi coworkers (and great friend!) cooks the best karaage I have ever tasted. Nothing holds a candle, and this dish disappointed.
• Ben Imo Croquette - Paired with salsa on top, the two definitely did not complement each other. I hastily scraped off the salsa and dug into this sweet, fried delicacy.
• Annin Tofu - This was on the special menu of the day, and I can never pass up this delicious, Chinese-influenced dessert. OH MY GOD. Heaven with a spoon. I'll go back to Shin just to order this.

Overall, it was a pleasant experience, albeit a bit pricey. But, I had to try everything, right? Next time I get a hankerin' for some Taco Rice, I'll be sure to hit up Shin and try that dish next.

BTW, the bathrooms there were quite cozy with lots of "Japanese-style" amenities...folded toilet paper for convenient grabbing, extra oshibori, hand cream...very thoughtful stuff.

My March Madness: My wallet is a bleak landscape after last night's indulgences. Thank goodness it's payday at my tutoring job!