Ever heard behind every strong man is a strong woman? This is the case here. Well, it’s more of a partnership, but Chaya and M Cafe executive chef Shigeumi Tachibe’s wife, Sayuri Tachibe has opened Osawa (77 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena, 91103; 626.683.1150) and I was lucky enough to try it.
It’s a unique Japanese restaurant with Otsumami, Shabu Shabu, and Sushi in Old Town Pasadena. With a focus on Japanese tradition of Omotenashi, or hospitality, Osawa is welcoming, and happy to teach you about the menu.
We tasted Chef Norio Yoshikawa’s Otsumami, tapas Japanese-style, both raw and cooked. We ordered up the special of Kampachi, the Ahi Tuna that came in a refreshing salad, Shishito Tempura Stuffed Spicy Tuna, and Seafood Cigars with To-Ban-Jan Mayo.
We then moved onto a sushi platter that was so fresh and delicious. Plus, we ordered up my favorite dish of the night, Tender Beef Tongue and Furofuki Daikon with Shaved Kelp. See the whole dinner menu here!
We finished with fresh Shabu Shabu of USDA Prime Rib Eye that came with vegetables, Ponzu, Soy Sauces, and Sesame Sauces, that are all made in house. The Shabu Shabu was so fresh, healthy, and the waitress were knowledgeable about how to go about cooking everything.
I highly recommend having your next Japanese experience at Osawa. They have it all fresh under one roof. There is definitely something for eveyone. Chef Norio may be the famous one, but Sayuri Tachibe has rolled out some delicious food of her own.
