Today I had lunch at Yanagi with one of the groups that I work with.

I knew that Yanagi probably meant something, so I decided to do a little research. I found out that Yanagi or Yanagi-ba-bōchō is a knife that is used in a Japanese kitchen to prepare fish. The name means willow blade knife and the knife is long and flexible like a willow branch.

The meal started off with an appetizer of edamame. These are immature soybean pods that are cooked and finished with salt. This is a common way to start a Japanese meal.

I also had a nice bowl of miso soup. I really like to have miso soup when I am at a good Japanese restaurant. I have tried the instant miso soup at home and it is never quite the same.

I shared a Red Dragon Roll with sushi pieces with one of my colleagues. I really like the color on this plate and the sushi was also really good. Especially with a bit a wasabi and soy sauce.

I also had a chance to sample the Caterpillar Roll that my manager ordered. I especially liked the large pieces of avocado.

I also had a nice katsudon rice bowl. The egg is hiding the katsu (deep fried pork cutlet). I would have much rather had tonkatsu which is katsu served with a special savory sauce. However, it was not on the menu.

The food was wonderful and I am sure that I will be returning to Yanagi in the future. I saw a few more items on the menu that I would like to try. I have driven by Yanagi many times and have always wanted to give it a try. I am glad that this is where the team decided to have lunch today.

What is your favorite Japanese food?

Steven