Unlike the typical cafe that offers a mundane Western menu, the newly opened Nodernus Restaurant at Irrawaddi offers a Japanese-inspired fusion menu. Find Soba, Don and Okayu (Japanese Rice Porridge) on the menu but with a local twist. Food choices may be a little limited at Nodernus, they have the edge over others in terms of pricing... imagine a decent portion of Japanese Rice Porridge at RM12. A decent option for a casual meal without putting a hole on the wallet.
We started off with Tok Tok Soba, a refreshing rendition of the Japanese Buck Wheat Noodles. The Buck Wheat Noodles were dressed in a light Soy Sauce and served with shredded Egg, julienned Cucumber and Chicken Popcorn. We did not understand the presence of Chicken Popcorn here, pretty much like 2 separate dishes. The Soba itself was okay but would prefer something lighter like Yuzu Vinegar. The Tamago Kayu Congee was not shabby- it has a bold earthy Shitake Mushroom and Dashi flavors; might be a little monotonous towards the end. The Chicken Katsu Curry Don was okay too- the Japanese Curry Sauce was nicely done, our only complaint was the slightly dry Chicken Katsu. For side, we topped up with Volcano Chicken Popcorn which was basically Chicken Popcorn served with Tartare Sauce-influenced dips with a spicy kick (and Soy Sauce).
Taste: 7/10 (1-3 bad. 4-7 average, 8-10 good)
Address: 38, Jalan Irrawaddi, 10050, Georgetown, Penang.