Best of Boston

1999 Best Japanese Restaurant

Tatsukichi Boston

The branch in the Shinjuku district of Tokyo is famous for its fried foods, but the Boston outpost doesn’t slack in that department, either, offering lightly breaded fried treats, as well as a vast array of sushi. For a real taste of japan, however, try the egg custard soup, called Chawan-Mushi, which takes a while to make but is certainly worth the wait. The tatami benches are a homey touch, but don’t expect an intimate dinner since the space is slightly cramped. For rowdy partiers, there’s karaoke upstairs in the evenings.

189 State St., Boston, 617-720-2468,