Mr Vigs

Wow, sounds like quite a show! Does Yonakiya specialize in a certain kind of ramen? I usually order Miso flavor, but also like shio and shoyu.

Thanks for the Ramen suggestion! I'll be sure and check it out. What time of year is the Menbaka Ichidai? Is it right in the city, or outside like the Himatsuri? Any other interesting spots or shops in Kyoto would be welcome!

I'll be visiting Kyoto this fall, and am looking for some restaurant recommendations. I'm particularly interested in okonomiyaki, yakiniku, unagi, ramen, and izakayas. Thanks in advance!

I see from looking around the Grub Shack that Mamster is quite an experience Thai eater. I love Massaman curry. What is your favorite spot it Seattle to have it?

Anyone tried Nonna Maria in Lower Queen Anne? I've heard some good things . . .

Anyone know where real ramen can be had in Seattle? I've got a serious hankering for it in this rainy weather! I used to go to a place next to Fort St. George in the ID, but it's gone now. I've heard about a Japan-based chain called Ezogiku on Broadway. Anyone tried it?

Cafe Juanita is one of the greats! My favorite waiter there won Best Server in the Seattle magazine article. Very knowledgable about the wine selection.

What are your favorite Italian places? Here are two of mine: In the formal category, I LOVE Tulio (Vintage Park Hotel, 1100 5th Ave). Top to bottom, I have never had a disappointing meal there. The appetizers are fantastic: sweet potato gnocci with marscapone and sage, a bundle of asparagus wrapped in proscuitto. Service is also excellent. In the neighboorhood bistro category, Salvatore's (61st & Roosevelt) is amazing. I've been there probably 25 times. The menu is fine (get the grilled mussell appetizer), but the 5 daily specials are where it's at. Tremendous veal and chicken dishes.

Thanks for the warm welcome! There seems to be a small but active group of regular posters. I'll try and spread the word. I will definitely report back after patronizing the Kabob House.

The best sushi I've had in Seattle is at Shiro's (2nd & Battery). Pricey, but a cut above anywhere else I've been (Nishino, I Love Sushi, Sanmi Sushi, Mashiko). I haven't tried any of the newer places though: Saito's, Chiso, Todai. My favorite sushi is Albacore (shiro maguro "white tuna" ). Melt in your mouth tender. Love yellowtail, fresh salmon, eel, tuna, fatty tuna (toro). I have a really hard time with salmon roe (ikura), squid (ika) and sea urchin (uni) though.

Has anyone been to Kabob House on Greenwood? The review in the Stranger (http://www.thestranger.com/2001-12-06/chow.html) sounded amazing! " . . . the flavors are unleashed without hesitation, taking over the mouth with such strength, the body submits in delight." Wow! I'm going to have to check it out.