Soga Shabu Shabu - Madison

This restaurant is located on an upper floor of an older building on State Street. Upon entering at street level, you climb a long flight of stairs that are lit... read more This restaurant is located on an upper floor of an older building on State Street. Upon entering at street level, you climb a long flight of stairs that are lit up on either side by a string of blue rope lights. I kind felt like I was on my way to a disco, haha. We were greeted by a friendly waitress who seated us immediately. It was late in the afternoon and very quiet in the restaurant. We ordered the wonton soup and sesame chicken with fried rice. The wonton soup was very good, and the sesame chicken was ok. I'm not a fan of breaded chicken anyway, but it didn't excite me. The fried rice was disappointingly on the cool side. The 3 pieces of broccoli that were on the side of the plate were also cold. I didn't eat any of the egg roll, but was told that it was steamy hot and tasted good. Before the food arrived I visited the washroom to wash my hands, and was aware of just how old this building is! The restroom could really use some attention. I love old and historic buildings and have absolutely nothing against that, but it seemed quite dilapidated and dirty. I was thankful for the motion sensored paper towel dispenser, as I was viewing how dirty the light switch plate was. I seriously don't know when the last time it had been wiped down. And the wall I was seated against had a taped up hole. I'd be willing to visit again and try something on the menu that is more suited to my taste. I would also love to see them put a little more effort into fixing the "tacky" aspects of the interior and scrubbing the place up a bit.

This restaurant is located on an upper floor of an older building on State Street. Upon entering at street level, you climb a long flight of stairs that are lit... read more This restaurant is located on an upper floor of an older building on State Street. Upon entering at street level, you climb a long flight of stairs that are lit up on either side by a string of blue rope lights. I kind felt like I was on my way to a disco, haha. We were greeted by a friendly waitress who seated us immediately. It was late in the afternoon and very quiet in the restaurant. We ordered the wonton soup and sesame chicken with fried rice. The wonton soup was very good, and the sesame chicken was ok. I'm not a fan of breaded chicken anyway, but it didn't excite me. The fried rice was disappointingly on the cool side. The 3 pieces of broccoli that were on the side of the plate were also cold. I didn't eat any of the egg roll, but was told that it was steamy hot and tasted good. Before the food arrived I visited the washroom to wash my hands, and was aware of just how old this building is! The restroom could really use some attention. I love old and... read more

Just a limited experience here, but a nice one. Stopped in yesterday on a whim while walking by on State St. and saw this new restaurant. Decided to try it, ord... read more Just a limited experience here, but a nice one. Stopped in yesterday on a whim while walking by on State St. and saw this new restaurant. Decided to try it, ordered an egg roll ($1) and the Kung Po chicken ($7.95) for carry out. While I waited for my order, the hostess handed me a glass of water, even though I didn't request one (outside temp was in the 80s, so it was a friendly, hospitable touch that I welcomed). I quickly got my food and left. The pork egg roll was tasty. Small-ish, but it was only $1. If you like larger, 'regular' sized egg rolls, just get 2 for $2. It's worth it. My Kung Po chicken order was huge. My only complaint was that I'd have liked more veggies. The dish was very tasty with lots and lots of chicken, so if my only complaint was that there was too much meat, that's a minor complaint. I'm eager to go back and try more dishes, and will update the review at that time.

The food was very unappetizing, and I couldn't grasp how to enjoy it. After having the beef brisket noodles, I felt quite nauseated. The skewers in the evening... read more The food was very unappetizing, and I couldn't grasp how to enjoy it. After having the beef brisket noodles, I felt quite nauseated. The skewers in the evening were a real letdown.

The restaurant has a new owner, and unfortunately, the experience has not improved. The service, food, and wait times were all disappointing, making the visit f... read more The restaurant has a new owner, and unfortunately, the experience has not improved. The service, food, and wait times were all disappointing, making the visit feel unworthy from every angle.