There's just something about the ambiance at Maruhi Sakaba.
There's no air-conditioning, there's no expensive carpets and there's no interior designing.
But what makes this place so popular?
Authenticity.
That's what this place is all about.
According to a Japanese friend, Maruhi Sakaba reminds him of home a lot.
He said the concept is very similar to small izakayas found in Japan.
But of course, the owner is none other than Fuji-san, who is famed for running another popular Taman Desa restaurant located at Bukit Desa that sells bowls and bowls of handmade udon.
People commune here after work during happy hours.
That's typically what an izakaya is unique for.
There are regular groups of Japanese who flock here after work.
Must-tries: start off with the hayashi tomatoes followed by the tofu; enoki mushrooms wrapped with bacon, tsukune stick, raw chicken liver, chopped chicken skin in mustard sauce and the pork belly of course.
Wash it all down with a Carlsberg or any of the Japanese beers on the menu for absolute bliss.
If not working the next day, ask what sake they have in stock.
Or better yet, get a large bottle of soju to share with a group of friends.
While it may be a sweaty affair, and your clothes may hold the flavours of food after that, I can assure you that you will return for more.
Bring cash though as they do not accept credit cards here.
Kampai!!!