Kasadela

Kathleen Squires

Citysearch

The Scene
The entrance leads into a dim, narrow bar decorated with sake bottles, exposed brick and a beautiful arched wooden ceiling. The dining room alongside is brighter, thanks to a big picture window and glowing yellow orbs of light. A tastefully eclectic mix of music, ranging from Tom Waits to Duke Ellington, entertains locals who seem delighted to have stumbled upon the inconspicuous spot.

The Food
Gourmet twists are given to simple Japanese dishes with even simpler prices. Sesame seeds add a nutty hint to sweet, thinly shredded burdock, while extremely finely diced salmon, avocado, shallots and wasabi combine for a wonderfully textured tartare. Tomato ponzu sauce provides a sweet and spicy punch to cigarillo-sized spring rolls, and a spicy mayo turns rock shrimp tempura into a Japanese spin on Cajun popcorn. The tasting-sized portions are especially convenient for a quick bite before an East Village barhop.