Izakaya Wa

For Houston locals seeking fresh, high-quality Japanese food, Izakaya Wa on West Gray Street offers an intriguing option in the heart of the River Oaks area. While it might give off an initial impression of being an upper-scale, fancy establishment, many discover it to be a more casual dining spot, focusing on fresh ingredients and a diverse menu that goes beyond just sushi. It’s a place where the freshness of the food is paramount, and the experience aims to bring authentic Japanese flavors to your table.

Izakaya Wa prides itself on its commitment to fresh ingredients, which is consistently noted by patrons. Their menu is extensive, offering a wide array of choices from sushi and sashimi to various small plates, skewers (yakitori), ramen, and donburi. This makes it a versatile choice for different cravings, whether you're in the mood for traditional raw fish or a hearty cooked dish. Dishes like their beef udon, chicken karaage, and various sushi rolls are often highlighted as flavorful options.

While some diners might find the portions on the smaller side for the price point, and service can sometimes be inconsistent, the restaurant generally aims to provide a pleasant experience. Notably, their busboys are often commended for their efficiency and politeness, ensuring a tidy dining environment. Izakaya Wa provides a decent spot for enjoying fresh Japanese food, especially if you prioritize ingredient quality and a varied menu in a convenient Houston location.

Izakaya Wa is conveniently located at 2015 W Gray St ste j, Houston, TX 77019, USA. This address places it in the highly sought-after River Oaks district, a central and easily accessible area for many Houston residents. West Gray Street is a well-trafficked thoroughfare, making the restaurant simple to locate and reach.

For those driving, it's important to note that parking is now paid. While this might be an inconvenience for some, it is a common practice in bustling areas like River Oaks and often ensures available spaces, albeit for a fee. The restaurant is situated in a suite, which typically means it's part of a larger complex or strip, offering a distinct entrance. Its central location makes it a practical choice for residents in River Oaks, Montrose, and other surrounding neighborhoods looking for Japanese cuisine.

Izakaya Wa offers a variety of services to enhance your dining experience:

• Dine-In Service: Enjoy your meal in their casual yet authentic Japanese setting.

• Lunch and Dinner Service: Izakaya Wa is open for both lunch and dinner, accommodating various dining schedules throughout the week.

• Happy Hour: A specific happy hour is available Monday to Friday from 5 PM to 7 PM and Sunday from 11 AM to 4 PM, offering specials on food and drinks.

• Takeout and Delivery: For added convenience, takeout and delivery options are available, allowing you to enjoy Izakaya Wa's cuisine from the comfort of your home.

• Full Bar: The restaurant features a full bar, likely offering sake, Japanese beers, and other spirits to complement your meal.

• Reservations Accepted: While not always explicitly necessary, reservations are generally accepted and recommended for peak hours.

• Wheelchair Accessible: The establishment is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfortable access for all guests.

• Vegan and Vegetarian Options: The menu includes various options suitable for vegan and vegetarian diners, catering to diverse dietary preferences.

Izakaya Wa distinguishes itself with several key features and highlights that draw in its clientele:

• Fresh and High-Quality Food: A recurring positive point in reviews is the freshness of the ingredients used in their dishes, from sushi to other Japanese fare.

• Extensive Menu: The restaurant offers a broad selection of Japanese dishes, including a variety of sushi, sashimi, skewers (yakitori), ramen, donburi, and appetizers. This diverse menu allows for a wide range of choices.

• Efficient Busboy Service: Many patrons praise the busboys for their excellent manners and efficient table clearing, contributing to a tidy and pleasant dining environment.

• Clean Restroom: The cleanliness of the restroom is noted as a positive aspect, reflecting attention to hygiene throughout the establishment.

• Authentic Izakaya Style: The "izakaya" designation implies a Japanese pub-style dining experience, with a focus on small, shareable plates and a relaxed atmosphere.

• Happy Hour Specials: Available at specific times, offering discounted prices on various food and drink items, making it a more accessible option.

• Variety of Dishes beyond Sushi: Beyond the fresh sushi, options like Karaage (fried chicken), Ika Ring (fried squid), and various ramen and curry dishes provide substantial choices for all tastes.

Izakaya Wa offers a highly attractive Happy Hour that is a definite highlight for many Houston locals. This special is available Monday through Friday from 5 PM to 7 PM, and uniquely, it's also offered on Sundays from 11 AM to 4 PM. These extended hours provide ample opportunity to enjoy discounted food and drink selections.

During happy hour, patrons can find significant savings on a variety of items. For drinks, they offer $7 House Specialty Cocktails, $5 Well Drinks, $5 Lively Libations (mocktails), and $5 Hot Sake. Draft beers like Asahi, Sapporo, and local craft options are available for $4. Wine lovers will appreciate half-off all wine, by the glass or bottle. On the food side, happy hour includes tempting options such as $6 Izakaya Edamame, $7 Karaage Chicken, $7 Chef's Donburi Bowl, $5 King Trumpet Mushrooms (2 pieces), and $3 Chicken Bao (1 piece). They also offer $4 Cucumber Salad, $5 Agedashi Tofu, and $5 Chicken Skin Cracklins. These deals make Izakaya Wa a fantastic option for a value-driven and enjoyable Japanese culinary experience.

To experience Izakaya Wa's fresh Japanese cuisine and enjoy their happy hour, here’s how to get in touch:

• Address: 2015 W Gray St ste j, Houston, TX 77019, USA

• Phone: (832) 548-1889

It's always recommended to call ahead for any specific inquiries, especially regarding current happy hour details or if you wish to make a reservation during peak times.

For Houston locals, Izakaya Wa presents a suitable and appealing dining option, particularly for those in the River Oaks and surrounding areas. Its primary strength lies in its commitment to providing fresh and high-quality food, ensuring that diners receive flavorful and authentic Japanese dishes. While some find the pricing a bit high for the portion sizes, the consistent emphasis on fresh ingredients offers a reliable culinary experience.

A significant draw for locals is the generous and well-priced Happy Hour, available during convenient times on weekdays and even on Sundays. This makes it an excellent opportunity to explore their diverse menu, from skewers and appetizers to sushi and ramen, without a significant financial commitment. The restaurant’s casual atmosphere and a menu that caters to various preferences, including vegan and vegetarian options, make it versatile for different occasions – whether it’s a quick bite or a relaxed dinner. Despite potential inconsistencies in server attentiveness, the efficiency of the busboys and the overall cleanliness contribute to a comfortable visit. For Houstonians prioritizing fresh Japanese food in an accessible location with attractive happy hour deals, Izakaya Wa is a worthy consideration.

Izakaya Wa

2015 W Gray St ste j, Houston, TX 77019, USA