Japa-what? Japadog! It only took me 7 months living here to finally have what's one of the most popular food truck items on the street. Funny - I didn't actually go to a Japadog food truck but to one of their small restaurant locations! I've come to the conclusion that for those that don't like Japadog are nuts. Sure, there's a lot of interesting ingredients thrown into one dog or sausage that may make it seem a little unorthodox, but it's just so damn good! As expected, there was a bit of a line outside the restaurant. But the orders are taken quickly, and like a food stand, everything is made hot and fresh, right to order. It's definitely worth the wait. The restaurant was clean and holds about 20 people, which are quickly coming and going. The staff were also very friendly. Maybe it's just me being nice, but everywhere I go I find asking "How are you doing?" makes a great start! As this was my first time, I had to go on a bit of an adventure to test the waters. So I ordered the Okonomi. A bit about Okonomi - It's a Karubuta sausage topped with Japanese sauce and mayo, crispy flaked bonito and cabbage. I had no idea what Bonito was, but thanks to Google I learned it's tuna. I have to give the place credit as the food actually looks like it does in the photos! When I got my sausage, I immediately could smell the tuna. First bite....I don't even know where to start with flavour. The sausage was juicy and delicious, the bonito provided a nice fish flavour, the sauces were light, but just enough to add some more oomph and then the crispy cabbage. So we have a crispy, juice, fishy hot dog.... stellar!! The sausage wasn't overly filling, which I enjoy when food just hits the spot. I will certainly be having Japadog again and more adventurous dogs. To give you an idea what to expect, here's their menu: http://www.japadog.com/menu_En.html Bon Appetit my friends!
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3/27/2014 12:41:17 am
Hi Melissa - love Japadog! Just a couple of quick notes. The meat they use is called kurobuta, which literally means "black pig" - it's a special variety of pork they import directly from Japan, which is why there's a premium on the kurobuta choices. Also, they only have the one storefront location so far, but you can find kiosks down on Burrard and Smithe, Burrard and Pender, and at Waterfront station. Next time, try out the Terimayo - quite the combination of umami and sweet! (And no, I'm not affiliated with Japadog - just love their take on hot dogs.)
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The Dip 'n Chip
3/31/2014 12:02:28 am
Hey Steve,
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