Izakaya Tori - Tampa

THIS PLACE IS THE ABSOLUTE BEST!! I'm Japanese and the food, service, and atmosphere are freaking AMAZING! Very traditional and extremely well done food. The sushi is perfect, noodles are cooked perfectly, you really can't go wrong with anything on the menu! Anime and Japanese pop music playing, great decor as well. Parking is atrocious, but just keep circling the lots and don't give up, I promise it's worth it! Also do yourself a favor and get the matcha creme brulee ? Everything about this place is just *chefs kiss*

Prepare to wait to be seated even with a reservation. We were told we might lose our table if we do not get their on time. We had to wait 30 mins even though we did. They are usually extremely busy. The food however kept coming fast. The server was patient explaining various dietary restrictions and options. The lychee cocktail is a must try. The tangerine sake was very smooth as well.

First off, reservations are highly recommend but they only take with parties of 6 or more. We got the sit down table and you have to take off your shoes before seating.Parking is a nightmare because it’s small and limited to just the parking lot in the front or back. Anywhere else and you will get towed.It’s not too large of a space so it gets crowded fast and the bar seating is definitely tight.Lychee , good but too sweet. Couldn’t finish it., we got the NY strip and pork belly but it wasn’t anything special.Chicken , not much , sauce was overpowering., probably the best thing there and that’s not saying a lot.Creme , it was green tea which I didn’t know. Flavors were lacking.Our server was tentative and staff were very nice and helpful. Overall, it’s not what I thought it would be. I wouldn’t return. It’s definitely a one time experience.

First time going. Got the tonkotsu ramen and gyoza. Gyoza was pretty standard, ramen as well. Ramen didn't have that full creamy soup as other places. Chili oil added the flavor it needed. Obvinot a ramen spot per say but good enough. Sushi rolls looked fantastic though.

Environment was delightful, the food was amazing... I heard rumors of the parking being hard to get and it packed but mid-week for us tonight wasn't bad at all. Buddy that lived in Japan said this is the most authentic Japanese food since he left and it was amazing, must try. And a very clean bathroom.