Kemuri Tatsu-Ya

Overall: good food, friendly service but food service was very, very slow, not what we’d expect at a small plates restaurant. For one of the dishes we waited 50 minutes, asked the server for an update and the ultimately had to cancel as it was going to take even longer. Ambience: Upscale dive bar vibes, eclectic decor and funky seating with mismatched chairs and a unique mug that held napkins and cutlery in every table. Service: our server (Anthony?) was wonderful - polite and friendly and helped with our questions about the menu! While the service overall was good, we felt the communication in general could have been better in terms of menu items that take way longer than expected, as well as giving us an update on areas of the kitchen that were backed up. Menu: wonderfully unique menu, Japanese style tapas so you have to order multiple small plates. We got 2-3 dishes per person and it was plenty for a good meal. Drinks: we got the Jiji Negroni (it was good) and the Shukaku Moon. The Shuhaku Moon was absolutely delicious, one of the best gin cocktails I’ve tasted in a while. I could have had several of those, was considering it came in a cute, tiny glass. Vegetarian: if you’re a vegetarian, you won’t be disappointed! The eggplant (Hippie Bone Marrow - perfectly smoky with sesame, miso flavor) and the mushroom skewer (truly incredible, you might at first think they’re meat, they were so yummy) were delicious. The lotus salad was also great. And the dessert (Matcha Banana Pudding) was amazing. Food: rayfin jerky was interesting, served with a mini grill on the table; bluefin carpaccio was fresh and wonderful; the cheesy takoyaki we had to cancel after waiting almost an hour for it; the short rib was sold out which was a disappointment; the hot pockets were good.

Welcome to Kemuri Tatsu-Ya, where the vibrant flavors of Japanese ramen and skewers meet the bold essence of Austin's BBQ scene! If you’re a fan of delectable meat and savory noodles, this is the ultimate destination for you. Picture this: succulent, perfectly smoked meats that melt in your mouth, paired with ramen noodles that transport you straight to the bustling alleyways of Tokyo. And don't miss out on their unique banana pudding with matcha—it’s an unforgettable treat that perfectly balances sweetness and earthiness. I can’t wait for my next visit to explore the menu.

I haven’t been to Kemuri in years. It’s far (especially in traffic). But we went on a date night and wow, how I miss this place! They’ve enclosed the back patio now so it’s nicely cooled - no more sweating our butts off when we eat. They did shrink the puff puff pass (maybe costs have just increased too much for them) but the flavor is still great. There is mezcal in it now (I can’t remember if the old version had it). It wasn’t overly smoky and was well balanced. Of all the dishes I had, which were very delicious, my favorites were all the funky dishes and the grilled fish collar. There is something so fragrant about their grill - it seeps into the fish. So good. The funky dishes included jellyfish salad, squid marinated in its own guts, tako wasa, and monkfish. If you’re even slightly adventurous, try them all! It’s so fun to try flavors that typically aren’t in American cuisine. I can’t wait to go back to Kemuri - it is such a fun dining journey.

As a Japanese, I had to embrace the fusion and let go of the traditional flavors. Fried tofu stuffed with Gouda and brisket was a great food experiment. Resembled an Indian samosa. Marrow edamame = umami bomb. Mozuku shot - would have loved more yamaimo and grated. Yuzu spritz lacked the yuzu fragrance and flavor. Staff was super attentive and helpful. Loved the decor.

Cool concept with some interesting dishes. The hot pockets were probably the best. Meat was solid. Cornbread taiyaki could def be saved towards end as a dessert. Next time will try the ramen.

Fascinating Japanese-Texas fusion concept with bold flavors! 🤔 This restaurant offers a truly unique dining experience with creative Japanese-Texas fusion dishes. The menu features an impressive variety of innovative options that are visually appealing and inventive. However, be prepared for serious heat! Nearly every dish we tried packed significant spice, which unfortunately made it difficult for me to fully enjoy most of the meal 😅 The spice level was quite intense throughout the menu. That said, if you’re a fan of spicy food, Japanese fusion cuisine, and sake, this place will be perfect for you! 🍶 The creativity and quality are clearly there - it’s just important to know your spice tolerance before visiting.

We went to celebrate my birthday and really enjoyed the experience. The place is different, cozy, and very welcoming. I loved the décor and the service was excellent — our food came out quickly. Everything we ordered was delicious, and we enjoyed every dish. I would definitely go back and highly recommend this restaurant. Just a tip: if you’re visiting on a weekend, make a reservation.