Matsuya Japanese Restaurant
Matsuya Japanese Restaurant G/F, Kiu Fung Mansion 14-18C Austin Avenue Tsim Sha Tsui Other branches in Causeway Bay, Mong Kok and Hung Hom Tel: 2736 2302
Grub: High-quality Japanese buffet at a reasonable price.
Vibe: Simple and clean, with some Japanese-style decoration.
Who to bring: Great for everyone, whether old or young, friends or relatives, big groups or small, or even for a date.
What's hot: There are quite a few all-you-can-eat Japanese buffets in Hong Kong, but this one will surprise you with both the quality and quantity of the food.
The sashimi is definitely up to standard. There is not a wide variety, but it is very fresh and you really can eat as much as you like. The tuna and abalone are particularly recommended.
The owner claims their chef was sent to a famous grilled skewer, or kushi, restaurant in Japan to learn traditional cooking skills. Whether or not this is true, some of their grilled skewers are really outstanding, especially the juicy mushroom, sweetcorn, crispy chicken soft bone, and the delicious cuttlefish ball, beef tongue and chicken sausages. There are more than 20 different skewers, so you're bound to find one you like.
The deep-fried sesame chicken wings and deep-fried seafood rolls with cheese are also excellent. The sesame greatly enhances the taste of the chicken wings, while the seafood rolls taste rich and satisfying. Don't miss the shrimp and eggplant tempura, either, which are crispy, without being overcooked.
Udon and ramen noodles, and rice are all served in big portions. They are all freshly prepared when you place the order and served scorchingly hot.
Be sure to leave room for the ice cream. Green tea flavour is always a favourite at Japanese eateries, and it's great here. But give the red bean and pineapple a try, too; they are filled with chunks of the respective fruit.
What's not: Waiters tend to be less than patient, especially during rush hours, and they will occasionally forget orders.
Sushi is just so-so, so don't even bother ordering it.
Advanced table reservations are crucial. You may need to book up to seven days in advance to get a table on Friday and Saturday nights, and even if you've booked, be prepare to wait before you're seated.
Price: HK$150-HK$200 each, depending on your time slot.