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We check out Roji, the contemporary izakaya tucked away in the backstreets of Central, to take part in the authentic gastronomical experience indicative of Tokyo’s street-food dining. Read on for our review!
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Venue & atmosphere
Hidden away in a narrow, inconspicuous alley that branches off the beaten path of the Lan Kwai Fong slope is Roji, a secluded enclave. You will encounter a dining room of small tables, slender countertops, a sleek bar, and open-air seating that emulates the feel of a curbside yatai (屋台; mobile food stall). Here, the atmosphere is buzzing with activity, and its dimly lit setting comes to life with the sounds of chatter and R&B hits. Roji only accepts walk-ins, so be sure to time your visit before the place fills up!
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Food & Cocktails
Roji serves up intricately reimaged Japanese izakaya fare, showcasing modernised elements as well as a French touch. Talk about farm-to-fork dining done right! Sourced from Japan, their menu highlights include seafood plates like the scallops, torotaku, and the refreshing seafood box as marine mains.
Comfort items like the A5 Wagyu beef and chicken katsu offer up heartier choices. Revitalise yourself with their cocktails, featuring combinations like the sake-and-gin-hybrid saketini, as well as the strawberry highball with refreshing summer flavours. Did we also mention their highballs are poured unbeatably smooth? All thanks to Hong Kong’s first-ever highball machine, serving frosty mixes of gin, sochu, and whiskey.
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Desserts
Before the night came to a close, we ended our meal with a unique and mouth-watering dessert. Sent to the table straight from the oven in an adorable mini-cast-iron griddle, their skillet pancake with homemade hojicha ice cream was a gorgeous note to finish on. Soft, chewy, and delicate, the white-chocolate-chip-filled blondie cake was a great compliment to the astringent inklings of the tea-infused ice cream.
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Verdict
Roji perfectly encapsulates the energy of a hole-in-the-wall chophouse, whilst successfully elevating well-known, Japanese street-style izakaya cuisine through a modernised vision. It must be said that owner Agnes Mu’s deep-felt love for the project shines through clearly, as do her intentions of Roji serving as a space for convivial gatherings. A chic and secluded joint, this is where groups of friends or jovial dates can come and gather for a casual evening made memorable with delectable small bites, frosty drinks, and great vibes.
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Roji
Tel: (+852) 2877 6160
Email: info@rojihk.com
Address: 20A D’Aguilar Street, Central
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