Aya Japanese Restaurant

1193 High Street

Armadale, VIC 3143
(03) 9822 9571

Food: Traditional Japanese

Website: www.ayarestaurant.com.au 

Date visited: April 2008

I came across these very ancient photos, taken over a year ago, at Aya Japanese Restaurant. It is just down the road from one of my favourite Japanese eateries, Sozai, which I always end up opting for when in the area. Don't get me wrong - the food at Aya is of substantial quality. It's presented neatly, flavoursome and tastes exactly like what is described on the menu. The ambience is also warm, but slightly formal and the waiters very polite. The thing that doesn't cut it for me about Aya, is its lack of vibrance, innovation and the *wow* factor you get at Sozai - from the first impression you get as you step through the front door into the buzzing dining area to the textural and flavour sensations you experience, biting into a delicately wrapped dumpling.

Agedashi Tofu - Fried Bean Curd in Light Soy Based Sauce Topped with Bonito;
Kani Tatsuta Age - Fried Soft Shell Crab in Japanese Spiced Batter


Tempura Udon in Soup; Unagi Kabayaki - Grilled Eel Glazed with Sweet Soy Sauce on a Bed of Rice served with Miso Soup and Tsukemono (Japanese Pickles)