Found a Local Authentic Gem – Takumi Izakaya

Vegas has a lot of choices when it comes to Japanese food. From large strip Venues to all you can eat to what I used to consider one of the best sushi in the world (Kabuto, its not as good as it used to be but still a good option for authentic omakase), you can find it in Vegas. However, if you are looking for something off the strip, that is not all you can eat and leans more to the authentic side, it can be hard to find. Until now. Last night, I tried a place called Takumi Izakaya and I was blown away. First the sushi:

The chu-toro was high quality, fatty, and very tasty. The rice was good. Just the right amount (leans on the less rice side which is how I like it). The uni was equally fresh and had a balanced sea and sweet flavor. The wasabi did not appear to be freshly ground but did not detract from the enjoyment. I ordered a second round of this. The tempura was perfectly crisp, bite sized, and not over battered.

The dish which brought I big smile to my face was the cold soba. First, once I mixed the wasabi and green onion into the sauce, it perfectly added just the right amount of umami and kick to each bite. The noodles were perfectly textured. Not under nor over cooked. The only minor thing I wish was that they were a bit colder. I’m still thinking about this dish the next day.

The scallop dynamite was good, and very generous on the scallops.

The chicken karage was well battered and bite sized (its a per peeve of mine when they are served in huge chunks).

Although, I was getting full, I also ordered the curry. I had to try it (chicken). The chicken was so crisp and tasty. The curry was savory with just the right amount of heat. I had to force myself to stop eating. Its been a while since I felt stuffed. I took the rest home.

Even though they were busy, service was not slow which was impressive. They had customers coming in and out, and takeout and everything was handled smoothly and professionally. Food was close to perfect. I will definitely be back and highly recommend you check it out.