[jlo mein]

Went to the Robson location this past weekend for a small birthday group, and I found it to be a very good night. The Ika Meshi (grilled squid stuffed with unagi/salmon/shittake sushi) was unbelievably tender and tasty, I've never had anything like it. I've had similar sushi compared to the Mango Paradise roll (california roll topped with smoked salmon and mango), but the salty smoked salmon makes this version the most appealing.

Some items were disappointing. The soft shell crab dish was soaked in a vinegarette that made it unpleasant, so I couldn't taste the crab. The Hamachi Inferno was disappointing, since the fish was sliced so thinly it had no taste or texture. Others at the table ordered more items and commented that too many of the dishes/sushi came with mayo/cream sauce.

I was driving so I didn't order any drinks. However I noticed the bartender was pouring cocktails filled with cubed ice, and he was free pouring. No jigger, no consistent speed pour spouts, not even pouring into an empty glass and then adding cubed ice after. I doubt his drinks have any measurable consistency at all.

One thing of note is that the restaurant seemed to be packed with a very young crowd, like underage drinking young. There were very few tables with the 20's and 30's crowd. I don't know if this reflects positively or negatively on the restaurant, just an observation.

Overall I was impressed by Ebisu. It is definitely a place I would go back to, especially on a hockey night with the huge projection they have setup on a wall. It's not a restaurant without it's faults, but it's decent. I would choose it over Hapa Izakaya simply because of service and the fact that Ebisu takes reservations. I would say Ebisu also has an edge on Guu based on location and value. (note: I know Ebisu is not an izakaya, but the format and menu are similar).

BTW: I'd really like to see nachos and taco rice removed from the menu lol...but if people like it, all the power to you.