Hotaru
33 E 3rd Avenue
San Mateo, CA 94401
(650) 343-1152
www.hotarurestaurant.com
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There are just too many Japanese restaurants in the Bay Area, and majority are plain lousy.

I would say that 95% are owned by Asian restaurateurs that want to make a quick buck, but lack they skill to deliver quality food.

On a sunny afternoon, I hip hopped into Hotaru. A few signals heighten the senses. One step into the cozy dining area, the tart smell from properly seasoned sushi rice and nutty notes from tempura just tease the senses.

A menu written in both Japanese and English confirms that Japanese patrons dine here. Sitting in a cozy booth, I order the bento box ($9.95) so I can taste a range of dishes. Whetting the palate, the miso soup with sweet and savory tones activates Unami, the fifth sense.

The teriyaki chicken was perfectly done. Pieces are slathered gently with a sauce that was not over sweetened, but just right. A notable smoky note reminds me of the goodness of grilled meat.

The grilled mackerel (saba) features tender meat.

With a crispy batter, the tempura just carried the meal. The nutty notes from the tempura complimented the pillowy rice.

The Californian roll was soft complimenting the sea-sweet salmon and tuna sushi.

Service is on par, reminding me of my great meals in Tokyo. Tea was often refilled.

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