Metromix tasting at Gazen

Here's the deal on Gazen

Gazen is a funky, somewhat under-the-radar Kaimuki izakaya that doesn't look like much on the outside. (It's right next to a Chevron station on Kapiolani Boulevard.) Yet, it's chic and modern inside, and attracts a diverse clientele — everyone from hip twentysomethings to families. It's a good place for groups to gather, with its long tables and big, comfy booths, but also because the menu is composed of small Japanese and fusion dishes that invite grazing and sharing.

Gazen offers a full bar, including specialty drinks like a highly regarded spicy Bloody Mary, but we decided for this first Metromix tasting journey to focus just on the food.

So here's what we ate.