Asian Sensation

When a restaurant is an icon, there’s generally a good reason.

But, when it comes to the iconic Yakitori Sake House, guests cite endless reasons for returning time and again to the landmark restaurant in Boca Raton’s Royal Palm Place.

Perhaps it’s the ambiance, which is equal parts cozy and edgy, with a blue-light sushi bar that sets the mood. Or it may be Yakitori’s flavorful Lychee Martini, topped with its namesake fruit. The extensive list of sakes is a big draw, too, boasting rare selections and options from various Japanese regions.

But there’s no doubt it’s Yakitori’s authentic cuisine that keeps foodies coming back. Virtually nowhere else can you find such a large assortment of top-quality sushi and sashimi prepared in so many creative ways. Kick things off with a to-die-for appetizer: Carpaccio with thinly sliced sea scallops, wahoo or yellowtail, served with truffle oil, wasabi yuzu, sea salt and fried garlic.

Take your time choosing among the many Raw Signature Rolls, Cooked Signature Rolls and Cucumber Wrap Rolls. 

In the latter category, we couldn’t get enough of the Toro Tataki with Foie Gras: seared bluefin tuna belly, foie gras, caviar, scallions and special sauce.

I could live happily just on the elegantly served Tartar with Caviar, served with your choice of the freshest otoro (tuna belly), bluefin tuna, yellowtail or salmon, plus a generous dollop of caviar. Feeling adventurous – or overwhelmed with choices? Go for the omakase, and Yakitori’s skilled chefs will choose your meal for you.

Those averse to sushi aren’t overlooked. Indulge in 12 choices from the robata grill, including lamb chops, short ribs and whole squid. Noodle dishes, soups and fried rice choices abound, such as the wildly flavorful Curry Fried Rice with Ribeye. There’s also a deliciously interesting take on whole fish: the Whole Snapper, which is semi-boneless; fried; and accompanied by seasonal vegetables, pine nuts, fresh ginger sauce, potatoes, snow peas and sweet chili sauce.

At meal’s end, the desserts are just as enticing. We appreciated the fusion approach of the Crepe Cake Green Tea, which incorporates matcha to put an Asian spin on the traditional French mille crepe cake (comprising many thin layers of cake and cream). But – tempted by the Tempura Cheesecake, Mochi and Fried Ice Cream – I’m already planning on returning to Yakitori soon. Very soon. O

Yakitori Sake House is located at 271 S.E. Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton. For more information, call 561-544-0087 or visit yakitoriboca.com.

Photos by Libby Volgyes