Atlanta - January 30, 2009

Miso Hungry

Miso Izakaya Restaurant Opens

Breaking news from the other side of the train tracks: Miso Izakaya opens Monday.

“Whazo whoso?” Hush. Izakayas are Japanese watering holes popular with nine-to-fivers looking to take the edge off with small bites and lots o’ sake (and flirting with strangers) before heading home to dinner (and their better halves).

Twentysomething chef/owner Guy Wong will keep you occupied until after the street lights come on with inventive tapas (soybeans with kelp-flavored salt; grilled, chilled, and fried bean curd) and sake. (BYOB for now. Keep your pants on, people.)

The design is innovative and intimate. Sculptural wood branches hang over the trio of booths; a backlit wall throws the sushi chefs into shadow.

Rumor has it that patio dining with a great sunset view of the Cabbagetown water towers is slated for spring.

Before we cut to commercial, you should make a reservation.

Miso Izakaya, 619 Edgewood Avenue, Old Fourth Ward (678-701-0128 or tapanese.com).