Both times I’ve eaten at Biwa I’ve been really impressed. Their fresh, spare dishes are right on the mark, and during happy hour there are some great deals to be found. Yakatori-inspired skewered meats like pork belly, beef tongue, hanger steak, chewy pork cheek and chicken thigh are all delicious and most are just $2. The vegetable and garlic skewers are also really good. You can get a giant Sappora for $3 or good house sake for $4. The happy hour, I’ve been told, is now all night for those who choose to sit at the bar.

And going to Biwa, located in the Buckman neighborhood, is not just about the food; it’s an experience. The servers bring you hot towels after you sit down. The atmosphere is clean, modern and romantic. You can really settle in here and forget about your hard day at work. And if the atmosphere alone doesn’t cut it, they have a great drink and sake menu to help tip the tide. Biwa, although a little off the beaten path, is a great addition to the burgeoning East Burnside scene. I look forward to heading back soon!

Biwa
215 SE 9th St.
(503) 239-8830
www.biwarestaurant.com

To view an interactive map of the Buckman neighborhood, click here!