When you think of Japanese food, sushi, teriyaki chicken, and robe-clad iron chefs usually come to mind. Takara Japanese Steakhouse on State Street is all that and more. From its traditional yet modern interior to its mouthwatering fresh sushi, Takara provides a pleasing dining experience that is sure to impress.
From Lucknow, India to Harbin, China, we've eaten our fair share of delectable treats from around the world. Takara was among the best. When we walked in, we were warmly greeted and immediately found a seat. The friendly wait staff sat us down next to an elegant indoor water-wall. The décor was stylish with an oriental theme. The first thing we noticed was the diversity of the patrons. Some were couples sitting down to a romantic dinner, while others looked to be having lively conversations. Chefs were putting on a fiery show at the hibachi grill while the wait staff bustled around. The atmosphere was excellent, and the food even better.
The vast and diverse menu featured every kind of sushi and sashimi along with three course dinner entrées. It included filet mignon teriyaki, shrimp teriyaki, swordfish and many other appetizing selections. My roommates and I divided the menu and sampled all they had to offer. Each meal was served with a delicious salad, warm miso soup and a bowl of rice . Although we were a little disappointed by the pricy soda, the delicious food presented to us more than made up for it.
We first tried the chicken teriyaki, which came out on a sizzling platter served with fresh vegetables. The quality of the chicken was excellent, as was the teriyaki seasoning. Although we are most familiar with Indian and Chinese food, the Japanese teriyaki chicken was among the best we have experienced so far. Served with a side of rice, the meal was reminiscent of the cuisine we had sampled in Asia. While the chicken was tasty, what really excited our palates was the sushi.
There are many good sushi restaurants in Madison. Takara's fresh-made sushi rolls, however, were not only delicious but affordable. Sushi is notorious for being too expensive for the average college kid to afford. The sushi at Takara, however, started at just $4.25. Furthermore, it was presented in a visually appealing way worthy of a posh Manhattan restaurant.
While the main course certainly wasn't as cheap as McDonald's, the food was reasonably priced. Most dinners cost $12-15 and gave portions that were more than satisfying. In fact, compared to many similar Japanese steakhouses, the cost of the main entrées was slightly cheaper.
Whatever the price, we would recommend trying Takara Japanese Steak House. Whether you're looking to take your special someone out to a nice dinner, bring your parents to a State Street restaurant or just go out with your friends, Takara is sure to provide an all around outstanding dining experience.
