17 Samsen Rd., Banglampoo, 08-9445-6302.
There are a few things you should know about Bar Musashi. To begin with, this roadside shophouse is tiny, with just four tables and five stools at the small bar. Second, you’ll leave the place smelling like the food as the kitchen is attached to the bar. And third, service can be painfully slow if it’s busy, with only one cook leaving you waiting at least 30 minutes for your order. Finally, don’t expect recommendations unless you speak Japanese. Just point to the pictures of the dishes you want and they’ll get the idea. So why would we ever recommend it? Because luckily, most of the menu is great value and reliably yummy. Sorry, no fancy sushi or sashimi, this neighborhood izakaya is a bar first and a restaurant second. Instead, you get small-portions of unpretentious food along with cheap cocktails (try the plum sour) and beer. For something salty and greasy to go with the booze, try the buttery stir-fried mushrooms with bacon and the crispy gyoza. If the chicken teriyaki is too sweet for your liking, then opt for the torikara age. Sprinkled with chopped garlic, spring onions and grated ginger, the deep-fried chicken is addictively good—crunchy on the outside and juicy inside. We also love the fluffy Japanese omelet and the agedashi tofu (deep-fried tofu cubes simmered in broth). For those looking for something more hearty, there are items like okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pizza) and cold somen noodles. But our favorite is the Japanese rice soup with ume. The comforting bowl of khaotom with a Japanese plum and fresh wasabi is a great hangover cure. While the homespun food might not be worth crossing town for, Bar Musashi is definitely a great neighborhood hangout to enjoy a simple meal while mingling with Japanese expats and, surprisingly, a farang regular who speaks fluent Japanese. Just make sure you call in advance if you come with a big group of friends. That way, you don’t have to wait too long for your food… On the bright side, you’ve got stacks of Japanese soft-porn magazines to read while you wait. Corkage B200.
