I was thrilled when my friend suggested Nanbantei for lunch as I had a wonderful meal here the last time I was here. Surprisingly, the place was not full even though it was Sunday. Perhaps it was still early as we were given counter seats since some of the tables were marked for reservation.

Having lunch here is definitely less hurting on the wallet as the set lunch menu is very reasonably priced. Even though I don't eat rice, I ordered the Salmon Shioyaki set ($10.40++) as it's better value for money than the ala carte menu. The grilled salmon was definitely the star: plump and juicy with crispy skin. Absolutely delicious! I polished off everything (pickles, tuna salad, miso soup and watermelon) but the bowl of rice was left completely untouched.

My companion had the signature Yakitori Obento ($12.50++) which was quite a feast for the eyes with 5 assorted yakitori. I tried the quail egg which had a smokey flavour and was very bouncy. The set came with a red bean paste dessert which was quite good as it was not cloyingly sweet. But I suppose this only appeals to beans-loving people like me as my friend didn't like it at all.

From the ala carte menu, we had the Pork with Leek ($5.70++). Since I don't eat meat, I only tried the leek which was charred and quite fragrant. I wanted to have the shishamo initially but being fickle minded, I had it changed to Unagi with Long Onions ($5.80++) at the last minute. This is my favourite! The grilled eel was so soft and smooth that it almost slid down the throat.

I wanted to have the shishamo initially but being fickle minded, I had it changed to Unagi with Long Onions ($5.80++) at the last minute. This is my favourite! The grilled eel was so soft and smooth that it almost slid down the throat.

It was fun sitting at the counter as we could get to see the chefs preparing and throwing a liberal amount of salt on the food while grilling. The squid seemed to be very popular and I think I will try that next time! For I will surely come back for another satisfying meal.

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