Hoshiki Japanese Izakaya, Damansara Utama
Words: Stephen Reid
Photos: Han Sen Hau
Hoshiki Japanese Izakaya is perfectly positioned on a lively corner in Damansara Utama, directly across the street from the well-known OCBC bank. This area hums with the energy characteristic of Petaling Jaya’s commercial districts. You’ll find a vibrant mix of shops, offices, and other eateries lining the busy streets, making it a central and easily accessible location within the city.
While contributing to the area’s vibrancy, the hustle and bustle of this commercial hub does mean that parking can often be a challenge. Our photographer experienced this firsthand, having to park some distance away before reaching us. He was ready for a cold drink when he finally joined us. So, here’s a pro tip from Monica and me: Grab a ride. Seriously, skip the stress of finding parking and just take a Grab. You’ll get here way easier and can start enjoying the food and drinks at Hoshiki without the hassle.
Hoshiki Japanese Izakaya, Damansara Utama
A line of traditional Japanese paper lanterns (chochin) hangs beneath the prominent Hoshiki sign, stretching across the restaurant’s facade and evoking a classic izakaya charm. Inside, Hoshiki exudes a lively, casual warmth. Rustic wood interiors and a mix of eclectic retro Japanese décor give the space a lived-in, welcoming feel. It’s easy to relax here, whether lingering over a meal, soaking in the convivial energy, or enjoying a quiet moment. High-topped tables near the open kitchen offer front-row views of the chefs at work, while standard seating suits solo diners, couples, and groups alike. Two private rooms, each seating 12 and combinable for up to 40, make Hoshiki a flexible choice for everything from quiet dinners to vibrant gatherings.
Having never experienced an izakaya before, I appreciated our host and Hoshiki’s owner, Aaron Lim, offering some background. When he opened Hoshiki nearly two years ago, he aimed to recreate the relaxed, social vibe of a Japanese izakaya in PJ—a casual spot where people unwind over sake or beer and share small, affordable dishes, especially grilled skewers. Aaron explained that izakayas evolved from Edo-era sake shops that began serving drinks on-site. Today, they’re central to Japan’s dining culture, known for their lively atmosphere and variety of dishes, from yakitori and karaage to sashimi and nabemono.
Drinks Menu
We kicked things off with the Suntory Kakubin Highball (RM 20), Hoshiki’s top-selling drink—even outselling beer. Dubbed the “Highball Hero of PJ,” it’s a refreshing mix of Suntory’s light, subtly sweet whisky, soda, and a squeeze of lemon. Monica noted it’s her go-to low-calorie option. Served in a thick, frosty mug, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular—especially with the all-day happy hour deal of five mugs for RM 80.
Next, we tried the Sui Gin Strawberry (RM 22), featuring Suntory’s new Sui Gin infused with yuzu, green tea, and ginger. Mixed with whole strawberries, yuzu, and strawberry syrup, it’s served over ice in a highball glass. The syrup settles at the bottom, so for a less sweet drink, ask for less or avoid stirring.
The Pink Calpis (RM 18.90) makes a bold impression with its vivid pink hue—Monica likened the colour to Pepto-Bismol, though the similarity stops there. This unique cocktail blends sake, shochu, Calpis, and strawberry for a creamy, tangy, and fruity mix. Served over ice in a highball tumbler, it’s refreshingly different, and its unforgettable colour adds to the appeal.
For a subtler yet eye-catching option, the Frozen Lemon Shochu (RM 21.90) layers thin frozen lemon slices down the glass, encasing a crisp mix of homemade lemon syrup, shochu, and soda. Refreshing and light, it’s an ideal thirst-quencher that won’t overshadow your meal.
Lastly, we tried the Pomegranate Sour (RM 17.00), a bright blend of shochu, pomegranate juice, syrup, and seeds. The syrup settles at the bottom beneath a clear soda layer and floating seeds. Prefer it less sweet? Ask for less syrup—or stir and enjoy the full flavour.
Hoshiki offers more than just great highballs, with a wide selection of whiskies, liquors by the glass, Japanese and other beers (draught and bottled), sake, and soft drinks. We opted for a refreshing iced green tea (RM 3), despite our host Aaron’s friendly nudge to try another popular Kakubin Highball—his enthusiasm likely adds to its appeal!
Food Menu
Appetisers
We began with Hoshiki’s best-selling Nori Tako Sashimi (RM 33.90), served on a textured grey platter with four crisp nori shells topped with fresh tuna, salmon cubes, and bright orange fish roe—a visually striking and tasty favourite.
The Cold Steamed Chicken with Leek Sauce (RM 12.90) featured tender, moist chicken slices on a dark blue plate, topped with finely chopped leeks and crisp lettuce. Fresh and healthy, it’s perfect for calorie-conscious diners.
Okura Marinated with Wasabi (RM 10.90) was a surprise highlight, even winning over okra sceptics. Served in a ceramic bowl, the crisp okra pods avoided sliminess, with a perfectly balanced wasabi heat that delighted the table—a must-try dish.
Cucumber with Salted Konbu (RM 7.90) was a simple, refreshing mix of sliced cucumber and salty seaweed—ideal alongside richer grilled or fried dishes.
After these lighter starters, we moved on to carbs. The creamy Potato Salad (RM 3.90) was satisfying and pairs well with skewers or grilled fare.
Hoshiki Classics
We moved on to some of Hoshiki’s classic dishes, starting with the Chicken Karaage (RM 11.90). This crispy Japanese fried chicken came with a lemon wedge and rich Japanese mayo, made creamier with extra egg yolks. It offered a satisfying crunch and juicy flavour—a true izakaya staple.
Dishes arrived quickly, challenging our photographer and videographer. The Osaka-style Gyoza (RM 15.90) were another favourite. These small, crispy one-bite dumplings, filled with pork and vegetables, were beautifully arranged and topped with nori and dried fish flakes—a popular Osaka snack.
Next was the visually striking Grilled Shishamo (RM 12.90), or Willow Leaf Fish. Four golden-brown smelts with grill marks were served simply with lemon. Typically eaten whole, Monica and I skipped heads and tails, while Ewe Jin and Han Sen dove right in. The smoky char, crisp skin, and roe texture made for an interesting experience.
Not fried but baked, the Sweet Potato Butter Foil (RM 8.90) featured tender sweet potato rounds with butter and a hint of sweetness, perhaps honey—a simple, warm, and satisfying treat.
We tried two sides, the Grilled Eggplant, and Grilled Avocado, both served as generous halves. Expertly charred, they were tender, creamy, and packed with a subtle nuttiness—simple yet delicious accompaniments.
Hoshiki Kushiyaki, Yakitori & Grills
Known as much for its skewers as its whisky highballs, Hoshiki’s kushiyaki—grilled skewered meats and vegetables—is a must-try. Yakitori, made from various parts of chicken and cooked over charcoal, is a popular, affordable dish often enjoyed with beer or highballs.
We sampled a range: classic Beef Striploin (RM 8), spicy Beef with Pepper (RM 7), simple Leek (RM 3), and crunchy, charred Brussel Sprouts (RM 7). The Chicken Meatball (RM 6) with rich egg yolk was a highlight, closely followed by the Citrus Vinegar version, which balanced acidity with richness. We also enjoyed crispy Chicken Skin (RM 5), earthy Eringi and umami Shitake Mushrooms (RM 4 each), flavourful Pork Cheek Meat (RM 3), and Chicken Thigh with Leek (RM 8). Though we skipped the tempting ramen bowls, Hoshiki’s skewers certainly live up to their reputation.
Hoshiki Japanese Izakaya Review
Hoshiki Japanese Izakaya in Damasara Utama offers a wonderfully casual and inviting atmosphere. It is a fantastic spot to unwind with friends or family over drinks and a diverse selection of delicious, unpretentious food. From their renowned highballs and creative cocktails to a tempting array of small plates perfect for sharing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at their own pace.
Reasons to visit Hoshiki Japanese Izakaya: casual and inviting atmosphere, thirst-quenching highballs and great happy hour deals, tasty skewers, the chicken meatballs with citrus vinegar were my favourite, and we all loved the okura marinated with wasabi, a surprisingly moreish and healthy snack.
Hoshiki Japanese Izakaya
109G, Jalan SS 21/1a, Damansara Utama,
47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Link to Hoshiki Japanese Izakaya on Google Maps
+6016 221 8182 (WhatsApp or call)
hoshikiizakaya.com
@hoshiki.izakaya
Hoshiki Japanese Izakaya Opening Hours
Daily: 12 pm to 12 am
Also open on public holidays
Find more of Japanese restaurants in KL here, and stay up-to-date on the latest gourmet and travel happenings around Malaysia via The Yum List on Instagram and The Yum List on Facebook.
