Downtown hot spot Tadashi Japanese Restaurant has opened its doors at a second location, and owner Jerry Gao is excited to bring new flavors to customers.
The original Tadashi, at 206 W. College Ave., is very popular, but the small place is a little cramped at times with a line often forming for people looking for a taste of the Japanese favorites such as sushi, ramen and other traditional dishes.
The new spot, located on the first floor of The Metropolitan high-rise at East College Avenue and South Atherton Street, offers more space in a nice, bright atmosphere.
Diners will still be able to watch the cooks making their favorite dishes, along with a view of the busiest intersection in town from big windows.
“The reason we opened the new place is because the old place is too small. I wanted something a bit bigger and bring the new food to the customers,” said Gao. “I hope the customers enjoy the new offerings.”
Where the original location focuses on ramen dishes and sushi, the new spot will focus on traditional Japanese rice bowls called donburi and thicker noodle dishes called udon, along with sushi. But don’t worry, ramen lovers, the original location will remain open and continue serving the dish.
For now, the new location does not have a liquor license and does not allow customers to bring their own alcohol, as at the original location, but Gao said that may change eventually.
In the summer months, the new place looks to have room for outdoor seating, but Gao will decide if they will offer it when the time comes.
Right now, the new Tadashi location is in a soft opening. Current hours are 5-9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 5-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 5-9 p.m. on Sunday.
Tadashi’s original location at 206 W. College Ave., State College, remains open. Photo by Vincent Corso/The Gazette
