Asakusa

Looking for a Japanese restaurant and not wanting to drive to the city on a suddenly cold wet Melbourne night I found Asakusa at 127 Waverley R, Malvern East (Ph 9569 2051) What a surprise
This is a small restaurant, seats 40 at the most, with an area in front of the kitchen where Chef Steven Yu can be seen making fresh Sushi rolls to order.
We started with half a dozen deep frie oysters in a light batter ($16), Tempura oysters you might say. They were a beaut start. Two more entrees - Gyosa, five moist, lightly seasoned dumplings, and then Eggplant stuffed with minced chicken, were both outstanding although one of the Gyosa was slightly burnt. We had the Katsu- Curry, deep fried crumbed pork in Japanese curry served with a small dish of salad. The pork was more delicate and tender than a chicken breast! and the curry mild and satisfying. a slight hiccup in the kitchen resulted in Sakana Teriyaki - grilled butterfish basted in Teryaki sauce arriving after the curry. It was a little dry perhaps because we were not ready for it when it was ready for us but none the less more than acceptable.
For dessert the Red bean filled pancake with red bean ice cream was super. The black sesame seed ice cream interesting but not sweet enough for my taste.
They have a small OK wine list but corkage for BYO is only $2/ bottle
Price: Mains are around $20 to $25. Desserts, mostly icecreams, $3/ scoop. BYO corkage $2/ bottle
Comments: This is really good Japanese cooking from an extensive menu which is sure to please. It deserves a good rating in the AGF Guide, in which it doesn't get a mention but does score 3 stars in Cheapeats. They are only open Tues to Sun from 5.30 pm and also have a take away menu.
Score: 14.25/20