Checked out a new restaurant in DC the other night after various suggestions and trying not to go for the tried and true that I’ve had.  So, I have now check Daikaya in Gallery Place-Chinatown off my list.

I was told that it has two levels and be sure to go upstairs.  I naturally picked the wrong place to go at first.  Their lower level is a noodles restaurant for quick, easy meals.  It’s perfect to grab before a game (this place is right next to the Verizon Center, so ideal for Caps or Wizards game night) or at lunch.  So, I had to ask where to go.  An obvious common question based on the quick answer.  Immediately next to the bright-light was a hidden black door with the Daikaya name on it.  Upstairs we go.

This non-ramen portion of the restaurant is based on how “the cuisine is freestyle and adaptive in nature and each izakaya in Japan puts its own touch to their menu items. In this spirit, we also like to put our twist on our dishes and drinks and embrace our role as an izakaya in DC, with international and American influences as we feel inspired.”

It’s very similar to a tapas restaurant.  Everything on the menu was small plates and you might need 3-4 per person, if not more.  They also had quite the drink menu, from beer to sake.

For the drink, I opted for a red beer, in a bottle — Echigo Red Ale.  It was hilarious because they bring you a glass that is the size of a juice glass at breakfast.  I guess it makes you feel like you’re drinking a lot from the 12oz bottle.  Very unique and nice beer.

For food, opted for a few different tastes.  There were so many choices on the menu, it was honestly hard to pick!

-fried garlic
-grilled avocado
-tuna poke
-cold steamed chicken breast

This picture doesn’t do the food any justice.  The flavors were incredible!  I wish I had room for more food to taste for options from the menu.  Will definitely have to go back again.  If you live in DC or are visiting, definitely add it to your list!