Toh Zan Nagasaki Grill - Mesa

The service was excellent, and the chicken tonkatsu skewers and takoyaki were outstanding. The ramen was decent, but it had so many noodles that I couldn’t finish it. The restaurant was very quiet—almost like dining in a library, as there was no music playing. However, if you ask, the owner may even serenade your table!

I’m not sure why I keep giving this place another chance. Some people seem to enjoy it, and I genuinely want to like it too. It’s conveniently located near my home, family-owned, and situated in a mostly empty strip mall. I really want to support them, but I just can’t bring myself to. The shrimp tempura was barely warm and lacked the signature crunch— instead, it was soggy. The curry was no better than a box of S&B curry, and the little pieces of vegetable were so mushy that I could crush them with my tongue. The restaurant’s appearance is fine, but for most of my visit, I was the only customer there. It’s a bit disheartening.

We walked into this restaurant and almost left without giving it a chance because it felt like a ghost town and the decor wasn't very appealing. However, we decided to stay since the food reviews I had read were excellent. As it turns out, everyone was spot on about the food; it was delicious! The sushi was fresh, the tempura was light and crispy, and the beef was savory. Plus, the service was quick. Within just five minutes of eating, we knew we would be coming back soon to explore more of the menu. I mentioned to the elderly Japanese owner that he should play some authentic Japanese music to enhance the ambiance, and he just smiled and said he would sing me a song next time. It made me laugh—I appreciate characters like that!

It is a little place, old fashioned mom/pop cafe. An older Japanese couple. The menu is big and 100% authentic. Everything is cooked at the time you order. Tons of food served. Happily took much home with me.

This is one of my personal favorite restaurants. The unagi-don and pork ramen are both delicious!