09/05/17
Hopstix Robata Grill & Rawbar Brewery is located in the Chamblee area north of Atlanta. The brewery/restaurant serves housemade beers along with small plates and a few Japanese inspired entrees. The atmosphere is really laid back with indoor and outdoor seating and an open kitchen for patrons to see chefs prepare their meal. This was the first time I've tried Monkfish Liver (Ankimo) and was not disappointed. I was tentative because some animal and fish livers if not prepared correctly tend to be chalky in taste and lack any seasoning or discernible flavors. This Monkfish liver is comparable to foie gras with its' soft, delicate and creamy flavor. The taste is slightly fishy but extremely rich. No chewing necessary since each bite melts in between your tongue and roof of your mouth. It is seasoned with a little salt and pepper and brushed with a light ponzu sauce that is simultaneously sweet, tart, bitter, and salty. This small plate is served on a bed of ice and banana leaf and will run you $5 (order 2-3 or you might regret sharing). It's definitely a raw dish worth trying in order to see how various animal/fish livers differ due to diet, upbringing and preparation techniques. It also goes really well as a bar snack with Hopstix's Golden Gate Ale beer. Until the next BTB ✌🏽