Ishiro (Canberra)

We were expecting the 𝗔𝗴𝗶 𝗧𝗼𝗳𝘂 ($6.80, 5 pcs) to be silky smooth cubes of tofu sitting in a savoury sauce, but we were presented with five chunks that resembled McNuggets. Nevertheless their crispy exterior and smooth interior provided a delightful textural contrast.

We enjoyed the 𝗖𝗿𝗮𝗯 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗖𝗿𝗼𝗾𝘂𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝘀 ($6.90, 3 pcs) for their shattering skins and sweet, luxurious crab cream.

We were impressed with the sides as well. The fresh and crunchy 𝗧𝗲𝗺𝗽𝘂𝗿𝗮 𝗣𝗿𝗮𝘄𝗻 ($6.90, 5 pcs), with a crispy batter and accompanying mayo dip, was unanimously praised.

The moist and flakey salmon in the 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗸𝗼 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝗺𝗼𝗻 𝗕𝗼𝘄𝗹 ($9.90), topped with torched mentaiko, was excellent. Mixing the onsen egg into the rice made both bowls more heavenly.

The beautifully grilled pork belly slices in the 𝗜𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗼 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝘀𝗵𝘂 𝗕𝗼𝘄𝗹 ($9.90) were tender and flavourful.

For affordable and delicious Japanese rice bowls, look no further than Ishiro. With multiple outlets across the island, there’s bound to be one near you.