A Tasty Japanese Street Snack – Takoyaki at Otafuku
Posted in East Village Food Tour on February 26th, 2010 by Terry – 4 CommentsA crowd stands outside a tiny hole-in-the-wall stand on 9th Street, between 2nd and 3rd Avenue. As you look closer, you see that most of them are eating small balls covered in a dark sauce. Takoyaki, known as Japanese octopus balls, is a street snack that is widely popular in Japan. This dish has made its mark here to Japanese and Americans alike. Otafuku is where you can get one of the most tasty and authentic takoyaki in New York City. On the East Village tour, this destination is one of the highlights where you can experience real Japanese street food!
Served straight off the takoyaki cast iron pan, you can feel the heat emanating from the plate. Take one bite and you find yourself pleasantly surprised, tasting both sweet and savory flavors. The octopus in the middle provides a nice chewiness through the dense batter and katsuobushi (fish shavings) enhances the seafood intensity. The ponzu brings the acidity that cuts the oil and the okonomiyaki sauce adds another layer of sweetness. There is also mayonnaise that brings out fatty flavor to the takoyaki. Immense pleasure overcomes you; your stomach satisfied.
You get to try takoyaki and Otafuku on our East Village Tour! Please check out our website for more details. Be sure to give us your impression on this dish when you participate in our food tour!