Unagi "poppers" at Usagi Ya

We ventured into Usagi Ya for the first time last night. As jalapeno poppers are a guilty pleasure of mine and I love unagi, the first thing that caught my eye from the "Before" section of their menu was - "Unagi-Jalapeno Tempura with Cream Cheese and Spicy Sauce." I thought to myself that item is either going to be perfect for a "worst thing you've eaten lately" or a "best thing you've eaten lately" post. I had to try it. I've had some pretty good meals lately, so I don't know if it qualifies as BEST, put I found it incredibly tasty. A little greasy, a nice spicy kick from both the jalapeno and the spicy mayo, an intensely creamy center of cheese.... Might not be everyone's cup of tea, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I'd wished I had a camera with me. Maybe if I give Ronnie_Suburban the $8 and some gas $, he'll go take a picture that will do it justice.

I also found their space very comfortable and service was both engaging and efficient. When our server delivered the "poppers" she described them as the perfect hangover food. I wasn't hung-over, but I could totally see that. The rest of the meal, while nothing spectacular, was certainly good. Fish was fresh, presented nicely, and I did enjoy the special roll of the evening which was a Green Dragon Roll.

Usagi Ya
1178 N Milwaukee Ave
(You can make a reservation through Open Table.)