Otafuku

Usually I don't go for the clingy type.

I make an exception for takoyaki, grilled dough shells that imprison a hunk of octopus. At this tiny Japanese takeout joint (which also offers cheese and plain takoyaki), they're served in sets of six that are squiggled with mayonnaise and dark, thick, sweet okonomi sauce, balanced by a salty measure of bonito flakes.

The mayo, sauce, and fish flakes also dress the pancakes called okonomiyaki. Otafuku's version is very loosely knit, almost crunchy, with just enough flour (and egg, I believe) to hold together the cabbage, vegetables, and add-ons, in this case pork (takoyaki and okonomiyaki combo; $9).

If the one small bench out front is occupied, you can ferry your food to nearby Abe Lebewohl Park, at 10th St. You can manage your meal standing up, too, but position yourself upwind of those fish flakes.

Otafuku
236 East 9th St. (Second-Third Aves.)
212-353-8503

Comments

[Joey Deckle]

Oishii!!!!!

[Dave Cook]

Oishikatta, indeed!