Chanko - Tampa

WOW, is all I can say! This place is fantastic. They serve amazing Japanese food in a straightforward diner that feels like it's from the '50s. It's a very laid-back spot where you place your order on a tablet, and your food comes out quickly. The food is incredible! The Chicken Katsu is crispy and delicious, and the beef is flavorful and tender. I expected it to be good, but I was truly impressed. You have to try this place; the Japanese food is not only quick but also expertly made!

I went here to meet up with friends. I thought it was a little strange at first that it looked like a diner but served Japanese style food. For fusion places, I guess it isn't a bad idea, but it takes getting used to.Everything there is essentially self-service, whether ordering or wiping down your own table. I don't like that aspect actually because I feel like when I go to a restaurant that is my expectation.The food comes quickly after placing your order; although, it can be difficult to hear above the people talking and music. I ordered the Karage side dish because I had actually already eaten dinner. The flavor was okay. Maybe a different sauce would have made it better. The chicken had been freshly fried and definitely made up for it.I would recommend it for the experience as it is a decent hang out spot.

We visited after lunch time and the place only had a few tables occupied. This is a self serve place where you order from a touch screen monitor and they call you when your order is ready.The Miyagi Okonomiyaki was yummy and portion was generous. The Shrimp rice bowl had enough shrimps in it and the slaw that came with it was good.There are many sauce options and you can buy additional ones.This is a good quick dining establishment.Kid-friendliness: No kid's menu. The area is tight and bringing a stroller is not recommended.

Been here a few times and have loved the food every time. They’re chili oil is spicy and tasty; wish they sold it in jars. They’re curry is also very good, comforting actually. Mind you it’s self service style so if you want to be waited on, try this place some other time then.

I've been coming since before it was called chanko and the menu was more Korean heavy. They changed names and menus to a more Japanese style of food. Their main dish is the okonomiyaki which to be quite honest is a lot of food. Not necessarily my thing but my friend from Japan said it tasted authentic. You order on a screen when you first go up and they bring it out when it's ready. I had the karaage japanese fried chicken bowl. There's options to add an egg which I did and also change from rice to noodles. Both were an upcharge so be prepared to spend 20 for food here, it's my complaint here, it gets pricey fast. They have a really good Japanese beer selection with Sapporo, Asahi and kirin at very reasonable prices $3.50 ish) The portions are huge and they serve them in plastic take out bowls even if you're dining in. Food was fantastic and their chanko sauce is amazing. The place has an old retro diner vibe with Japanese decor, very eclectic but vibey. I often have to decide between here and ichicoro every time I'm nearby. Overall really good Japanese inspired food, highly recommended.