Kemuri Tatsu-Ya

For Texans seeking a truly distinctive dining adventure, Kemuri Tatsu-Ya in Austin offers an experience unlike any other. This acclaimed Japanese restaurant defies easy categorization, masterfully blending the casual, convivial spirit of a Japanese izakaya with the bold, smoky flavors of Texas barbecue. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, creating a menu that is both surprising and deeply satisfying. If you're tired of the ordinary and looking for a culinary journey that celebrates local flair with international inspiration, Kemuri Tatsu-Ya is a must-visit destination.

Born from the creative minds behind the popular Ramen Tatsu-Ya, Kemuri Tatsu-Ya takes a different path, focusing on small, shareable plates, expertly grilled skewers (yakitori), and a remarkable array of smoked dishes. The name "Kemuri" itself means "smoke" in Japanese, a testament to their commitment to integrating Texas's beloved BBQ techniques into Japanese cuisine. This fusion results in a menu that is "creative and delicious Japanese fusion—fun, flavorful, and far from ordinary," as described by appreciative patrons. It’s a perfect spot for a lively night out with friends or a unique date night, offering a cozy yet character-filled ambiance.

Kemuri Tatsu-Ya is conveniently located at 2713 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78702, USA. Situated in East Austin, this location places it within a vibrant and rapidly developing part of the city, easily accessible from various neighborhoods. East 2nd Street is known for its burgeoning culinary scene, making Kemuri Tatsu-Ya a prime spot for those exploring Austin's diverse dining landscape.

The restaurant’s appearance from the outside might suggest a more modest establishment, with one reviewer noting it "looks like a hole-in-the-wall from the outside." However, stepping inside reveals a "spacious and full of character" interior. While street parking can be typical for the area, its proximity to other attractions in East Austin makes it a convenient destination for those exploring the area on foot, by ride-share, or public transport. Reservations are often recommended, especially during peak dining hours, to ensure prompt seating.

Kemuri Tatsu-Ya provides a unique dining experience centered around its innovative Japanese-Texas fusion concept:

• Full-Service Dine-In: Enjoy a relaxed dining experience with attentive table service, allowing you to explore their extensive menu of small plates and skewers.

• Japanese-Texas Fusion Menu: The core offering is a creative blend of traditional Japanese izakaya fare with Texas barbecue influences, featuring smoked meats, grilled skewers, and unique appetizers.

• Extensive Skewer Selection (Yakitori/Kushiyaki): A wide variety of skewers, including popular options like scallop and wagyu, alongside other meat, vegetable, and seafood choices.

• Smoked Dishes: Leveraging a smoker on-site, they offer unique smoked items like brisket, eel, and fish collar, often available as part of bento boxes or standalone dishes.

• Creative Appetizers and "Munchies": A selection of innovative starters such as Taiyaki Cornbread, Char Siew Pork Belly, and "Hot Pocketz" (bbq brisket, smoked gouda, tofu skin).

• Full Bar Program: A comprehensive drink menu featuring a wide range of sake, shochu, Japanese and American whiskies, Japanese and Texan craft beers, and innovative Japanese-influenced cocktails.

• Reservations Recommended: Given its popularity, making a reservation, particularly for dinner, is advised to secure a table promptly.

Kemuri Tatsu-Ya stands out for several compelling features and highlights that draw in Texans looking for an unforgettable culinary experience:

• Unique Japanese-Texas BBQ Fusion: This is the defining characteristic of Kemuri Tatsu-Ya. They seamlessly blend traditional Japanese izakaya concepts with the smoky, savory traditions of Texas barbecue. This fusion manifests in dishes like smoked eel, brisket dipping ramen, and brisket buns, offering a truly unique flavor profile that you won't find just anywhere.

• Creative and Flavorful Menu: Patrons consistently describe the food as "creative and delicious Japanese fusion—fun, flavorful, and far from ordinary." The menu goes beyond typical Japanese offerings, with standout items such as the Wagyu and Scallop skewers, the well-loved Char Siew Pork Belly, and the surprising yet delicious Taiyaki Cornbread.

• Inviting and Character-Filled Ambiance: Despite potentially looking understated from the outside, the interior is "spacious and full of character." The decor cleverly blends elements of cowboy culture with Japanese aesthetics, creating a "cozy and perfect for a fun night out" atmosphere. This unique setting contributes significantly to the overall dining experience.

• Exceptional and Attentive Service: Multiple reviews highlight the "amazing" service, describing staff as "friendly, knowledgeable, and super attentive." This high level of service enhances the dining experience, making guests feel well-cared for.

• Skewer (Yakitori/Kushiyaki) Expertise: A significant portion of their menu is dedicated to expertly grilled skewers. While some can be rich, the variety and quality of options like beef tongue, chicken meatballs (tsukune), and various vegetable skewers offer a delightful exploration of flavors and textures.

• Michelin Bib Gourmand Recognition: Kemuri Tatsu-Ya has received a Michelin Bib Gourmand, a prestigious recognition for "good quality, good value cooking," underscoring their commitment to culinary excellence and affordability for the quality provided.

Kemuri Tatsu-Ya has been known to offer special promotions, particularly their Happy Hour (often referred to as Otsukare Happy Hour). While exact timings and offerings can vary, past promotions have included "50% off small bites" and discounted cocktails, sake, and beers. One review mentioned getting "a ton of food and two rounds of cocktails for under a hundred bucks" during happy hour, indicating significant value. Historically, Happy Hour has been available daily (or on specific weekdays) during early evening hours, for example, from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM, or sometimes Sunday through Thursday from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, though this can change.

Beyond happy hour, Kemuri Tatsu-Ya occasionally features seasonal tasting menus or special events, such as a Valentine's Day tasting menu, which typically includes some of their most loved dishes. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on their current happy hour schedule, specific menu specials, or any upcoming events, it is highly recommended that Texans check Kemuri Tatsu-Ya's official website or call them directly. These promotions provide an excellent opportunity to sample a wider range of their innovative dishes at a more accessible price point.

For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about Kemuri Tatsu-Ya, you can reach them through the following:

Address: 2713 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78702, USA

Phone: (512) 803-2224

Kemuri Tatsu-Ya is perfectly suited for locals in Texas, especially those in the Austin area, for several compelling reasons. It offers a fresh and exciting deviation from traditional Japanese restaurants, providing a unique fusion experience that resonates with the adventurous spirit of Texan diners. The blend of Japanese izakaya small plates with the beloved flavors of Texas barbecue creates a culinary niche that is both familiar and exotic, making it an ideal spot for those looking to expand their culinary horizons without venturing too far from home.

For locals, Kemuri Tatsu-Ya provides a "fun, flavorful, and far from ordinary" dining experience, ideal for social gatherings. The shareable nature of the skewers and small plates makes it perfect for groups of friends or family to try a variety of dishes. The "spacious and full of character" interior offers a cozy yet lively atmosphere for a memorable night out. While some outdoor seating experiences might be prone to natural elements like insects, the indoor ambiance and the overall culinary innovation make it a highly desirable destination for many.

The "amazing" and "super attentive" service ensures that diners feel valued and well-cared for, a quality highly appreciated by local patrons. Furthermore, its recognition with a Michelin Bib Gourmand speaks to its commitment to both quality and value, making it an accessible high-end dining option for the local community. Kemuri Tatsu-Ya isn't just a place to eat; it's a destination where Austin's vibrant culture and Texas's culinary heritage meet Japanese artistry, providing a truly local and unforgettable dining experience that residents will want to revisit time and again.

Kemuri Tatsu-Ya

2713 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78702, USA