Tsukune-yeah!

I drive past Dole and University Avenues once a week and never paid any attention to the orange and black restaurant on the corner until my friends started raving about it. Tsuku-what? Chicken on a stick? Ramen that’s good for your complexion? That got my curiosity.

As it turns out, we didn’t order the ramen as there were so many other things to try: teriyaki tsukune (signature grilled chicken appetizer), tofu dengaku (grilled tofu), kamameshi (seasoned rice pot) and shiitake caps stuffed with tsukune filling. Our  hands-down favorites?  The “sumi” dried squid and rice balls with chicken broth. It’s a comfortable meal, like what you might enjoy in Japan at the home of a good friend.

It’s important to note that Tsukuneya—A Robata Grill is not your typical Japanese restaurant. Think of it as a “sushi bar” style restaurant in which portions are small so you can try a little of everything. And trust me, you’ll want to try a little of everything. tsukuneyarobatagrill.com