Dinner at Dan Izakaya Japanese Restaurant in San Jose with the Rothenbergs

"An izakaya in Tokyo made international news in 1962, when Robert F. Kennedy ate there during a meeting with Japanese labor leaders.”

—Wikipedia

Historically an izakaya is a type of casual Japanese bar that serves alcoholic drinks and snacks for after-work drinking similar to an English pub, a Spanish tapas bar, or an American saloon or tavern. Dan Izakaya is a full service restaurant in San Jose, CA., that serves cocktails, wine, beer and an array of sake. Izakaya-style establishments existed in Japan at the early 700s. Dan Izakaya presents itself with a warm inviting atmosphere and bright ceiling lamps.

Always open to try new places, Bill and Sarah recommended Dan Izakaya, a place they had eaten at once before. Bill and I shared a bottle of Sapporo Premium beer. For our appetizers we all shared a Sashimi Salad with avocado and tomato served over romaine, topped with sesame seeds, green onions and shredded seaweed, Miso soup; and Steamed Gyoza (little potstickers) stuffed with pork, chicken, and vegetables.

For our entrees, Sarah and Bill ordered the seared Salmon Meshi sashimi and flying fish roe on crunchy skillet of rice in a stone pot topped with green onions, sesame seeds, and shredded dried seaweed. Cecile had Salmon Teriyaki Don: grilled Salmon with teriyaki sauce on the side, with rice topped topped with green onions and and sesame seeds, and I had grilled Salmon & Beef Teriyaki Don prepared the same way. The food was excellent, our waiter was friendly and service was timely. Though the Yuzu Sherbert (100% Freshly squeezed and quickly frozen) sounded refreshing, we hit the Dairy Queen for dessert.