Enso 円相 in Tsim Sha Tsui

"A cozy izakaya/bar located at TST. The vibe was chill and relaxing, a really nice place to have a drink or two. We didn’t drink but ordered some of their signature and popular dishes. We had three dishes with mentaiko, and all of them tasted amazing! Nothing to be picky about at all! Definitely recommend the egg roll, cold udon and pickled eggplant!"

"If you’re looking for a dining experience that feels both personal and unforgettable, Enso is a must-visit. This modern Japanese Izakaya in Hong Kong doubles as a craft beer and sake bar, where the atmosphere is intimate and the food is nothing short of remarkable. What sets Enso apart is the owner, who’s often on hand to greet you with warmth, offer new dishes to try, and make you feel like part of the family. It’s the kind of hospitality that keeps you coming back. Enso’s dishes are a masterclass in flavor. The omelette is so incredibly delicious, it’s as if a samurai is grilling it on a blazing hot sword in the kitchen, delivering something that tastes impossibly clean and satisfying. Then there’s the Japanese curry with egg and rice - simple, yet so full of comfort and flavor. Don’t miss the pickled eggplant and potato mochi, which are also standout dishes, but the crown jewel of the menu has to be the Cold Udon with mentaiko sauce, crab roe, and shrimp. This dish is in part why we call Enso our favorite restaurant in Hong Kong. And don’t forget dessert! The oat milk and maple pudding is out of this world - easily one of the best desserts in Hong Kong. Its creamy texture and perfectly balanced sweetness make it the perfect way to finish your meal. The space is tight and cozy, which adds to its charm, but you’ll want to book ahead if you’re coming on a Friday or Saturday night. The atmosphere can get lively, especially with their incredible selection of craft beers and sake on offer. If you’re in the mood for something different, try the mango and pomegranate cider - it’s a refreshing twist that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of the food. From the impeccable service (especially when the owner is around) to the great value of their lunch menu sets, everything about Enso is a win. It’s a place where you can indulge in excellent Japanese cuisine while enjoying a unique and welcoming atmosphere."

"The *Mentaiko Yaki Onigiri* ($46) immediately grabs attention with its generous topping of spicy cod roe sauce. Visually enticing and even more pleasing on the palate, each bite of the rice ball is infused with rich, umami-forward mentaiko that’s delicately spicy—enough to awaken the taste buds without overpowering them. The sauce is applied so thoroughly that it complements every grain of rice, masking any brininess with its bold character. The *Soy Sauce Grilled Onigiri* ($42) is a masterclass in simplicity and technique. Every angle of the rice ball is evenly coated with a savoury soy glaze, which seeps into the rice and forms a beautifully crisp, golden crust. The exterior is pan-seared to a satisfying crunch, offering a smoky, caramelised bite that disappears faster than expected. *Crispy Chicken Cartilage with Yuzu Pepper* ($68) offers a refreshing twist on a classic izakaya snack. The light citrus note of yuzu lifts the deep-fried richness, while the pepper adds a subtle punch. Each crunchy nugget of cartilage is addictive—balanced in flavour and never greasy. It’s an ideal pairing with a cold drink and lively conversation. The *Japanese-Style Seaweed Squid Tentacles* ($88) are fried to a golden crunch without a trace of oiliness. The freshness of the squid shines through, enhanced by the crisp texture and savoury seasoning. It’s a snack that’s both satisfying and light, with just the right amount of chew. The *Yakitori Skewer Trio* ($98) allows for a delightful mix-and-match experience. Two of the skewers featured minced chicken grilled to a crisp exterior, then glazed with a sweet soy sauce and served with a creamy raw egg yolk for dipping—adding a silky richness to each bite. The chicken gizzard skewer stood out with its firm texture and perfectly scored surface, which absorbed the marinade deeply. Finally, the *Marinated Japanese Eggplant* ($42) serves as an ideal cold starter. Chilled and imbued with soy sauce, the eggplant offers a sweet and savoury taste that’s both refreshing and satisfying. It’s a light, flavourful introduction that opens the appetite in the most elegant way."

"A charming izakaya that specializes in drinks, this place is a hidden gem. With a wide selection of craft beers, sake, and umeshu, there's something for every palate. The ambiance is welcoming, making it an ideal spot for a casual gathering with friends. The food quality is impressive. I ordered the mentaiko cream udon, and it was absolutely delicious—fresh and flavorful, with the right balance of creaminess and spice. The yakitori options are plentiful, offering a variety of skewers that are both crispy and flavorful. Each bite is a delight, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality. This izakaya is perfect for a relaxed evening of drinking and snacking with friends. Whether you're a fan of craft beverages or simply looking for tasty bites, this place won’t disappoint!"

"Very cozy and cute izakaya! They have super spicy ice cream and fried rice. The chef gave us a small bite of ice cream (which seems to be the mildest and I have to say it is insane."

"I recently visited Ensō in Tsim Sha Tsui, a place that bills itself as a "healing-style" izakaya, and the atmosphere lived up to the hype. Tucked away on Austin Road, it felt like a quiet escape from the Kowloon chaos, especially with the curated local indie music playing in the background. Mentaiko Cream Udon: This was the highlight. The sauce was incredibly rich and velvety, with just enough spice from the mentaiko to balance the cream. The thick char siew ramen was also great too, a winter special and paired with shoyu broth and springy noodles. As a fan of craft beer, I was impressed by their rotating selection. You can pair the skewers with a local brew, though their sake list is extensive if you're looking for something more traditional. It’s the kind of place where you’re encouraged to linger over a glass while soaking in the healing vibes. Sadly this place is closing down in mid Feb."

"Always a very nice place to visit. Good select of foreign and local craft on tap - 12 or so varieties at any one time - an some interesting Nihonshu. Lovely service and great food every time I've been. The Lunch curry is great and my only complaint is that these are not available all day!"

"This down-to-earth izakaya is very comfy and good fit for a weekend feast with family and friends! Food are great and economical. Recommend the grilled eel, grilled ox tongue, dried hokke!"