Biwa or Be Square

Biwa is an Izakaya, which is basically a Japanese bar that serves food best accompanied with sake. Supposedly it's been a rising trend out here in Portland, supplementing the sushi trend from years ago. My favorite part: small portions, which means a delightful nosh throughout dinner.

We've been to a few izakayas here in Portland, but so far, our favorite is Biwa, and according to Cassio, it's also the most authentic within our izakaya repertoire. I adore the atmosphere, especially during our delightful rainy afternoons. It's set below street level and presents clean architectural lines and design while continuing to be warm and welcoming.

This is the perfect kind of place for sharing, and we shared it with Cassio's brother, Ciro, several weeks ago. Let your taste buds run wild, be adventurous and frisky and order mounds of enticing delicacies. Just try a bite and pass, or lick the plate. The choice is yours, or I guess yours and your guest's depending on if you're licking things.

On to the food: as I mentioned, Cassio felt this was the most authentic thus far. The food was simple, yet flavorful while also being seasonal and authentic. My favorite was a curry and pork croquette. It was like a little potato cake, but was perfectly crispy and absolutely delicious. I was also quite fond of the miso scallop, but scallops rarely disappoint. Oh, and instead of sake, I imbibed on a black pepper soda. Huh? Yeah, but it was mmmm, mmmm good.

Here's what we had, and yes, we were quite satisfied. Would highly recommend this place:

Crisp & Spicy Radish & wasabi salad
Miso soup
Soft tofu with green onion and soy sauce (I usually don't like tofu, but this was excellent)
Savory & Succulent Chicken breast on a stick (Izakayas have lots of stuff on a stick; perfect while you're getting your sake drink on)
Miso scallop on a stick YUM, MY FAVORITE!
Pork belly on a stick
Mustard greens
Chicken thigh on a stick
Skirt steak on a stick
Curry rice
Curry & Pork Croquette OH MY GOODNESS!
Pickled stuff (like onions, beets, cabbage, etc.)

http://biwarestaurant.com/