Complete with a miniature waterfall, charming decoration and subtle lighting, Takara Japanese Restaurant on State Street makes moderately priced dining feel like a trip around the world. Between the atmosphere and their locally renowned sushi, hibachi, and a list of entrees, Takara is one of the best options for Japanese dining in Madison.
For the most part the Takara wait staff is friendly and helpful. Some tend to hang back unless service is requested. Others are happy to help patrons decide how to order and seem to enjoy describing their own favorite dishes. Traditional dining with chop sticks is encouraged and silverware is most often only provided upon request. Upon entering, diners are presented with four options for seating.
On one end of the restaurant there are hibachi grills where talented chefs flash knives and set large bursts of flames on the grill. I observed one chef flipping an egg from fork to fork before cutting it in midair to land in perfect position to cook with fried rice. At a different time, a chef let one patron try her own hand at fork juggling. Hibachi orders are served with soup, salad, a hibachi shrimp appetizer, vegetables and white rice. Prices range from $12.95 to $30.95. However, this option is usually reserved for larger groups.
Across the room is a sushi bar where chefs delicately wrap many kinds of seaweed and rice rolls. Diners can choose this bar style seating, although sushi can be ordered regardless of seating choice. Maki or Temaki (roll or hand roll) choices range from $2.95 to $9.95. Guests can also choose from tea room style seating or al table where they will be able to choose from a sushi, teriyaki or tempura style Japanese cuisine ranging from $10.95 to $59.95(for the most expensive sushi option). Most entrees cost less than $20.
The food is served fresh, bubbling hot and it comes relatively quickly. In the meantime, dinner guests are served a light tofu soup and a lettuce salad with ginger salad dressing. While most entrees are tasty, there is a reason Takara is known for its fish. The two piece salmon teriyaki entree is tender, flavorful and came recommended to me by one helpful waiter. The salmon is so good you won’t put down your chop sticks until it is gone. It is served with a side of vegetables and rice for $14.95.
After all that food there is just one last thing that can’t be missed when dining at Takara: fried cheesecake. The cheesecake is served warm with a sugary, tempura crust around the outside and whip cream on the top for just $3.95. It is the perfect ending to a perfect meal.
If you like Japanese cuisine and you spend time in Madison then you must check out Takara. The professional yet comfortable atmosphere makes it the perfect place for a date, birthday celebration, or family dinner. It’s even a little bit of international culture right in the heart of Madison.