Kokoro Donburi

This place is delicious. Been here twice in two weeks. This is Japanese comfort food at its best. ????????

Driving by I noticed HABANAS Cuisine is gone replace with KOKORO DONBURI, not a surprise as industry is gradually changing. This pandemic have people hunker down at home making it easier to score a parking space right out front. At first I thought they were closed, but saw a sign to open at noon so I sat in car and wait it out around thirteen minutes. Once open I walked in lady at cashier was very enthusiastic for the small group of customers eagerly waiting themselves. You can tell she had prior experience from somewhere might even be the owner for all I know. The layout of place hasn't changed you can tell japanese design is just for convincing and look, but yet modern. Menu is more on the curated side known for bowls made from rice or udon and small plate are under USD$10.

After peruse of menu I didn't want anything, but felt bad during this world of uncertainty so I got OYAKO DON. Bowl was hefty and steaming hot weighing in over two pound (estimated weight), but is it worthy of it's weight? The bowl was lacking taste pretty bland and boring despite strips of grilled onion, chopped green onion and pinch of black pepper, it didn't help this thing. Two things they did right is chicken, it was tasty and good nice size chunks seen so that was a delight just need more seasoning and rice were short grain fluffy and not mushy. This place could be successful giving the location which isn't bad being the only player offering donburi around Park St with a budget price point.

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Japanese Curry has landed in Alameda. I’ve been craving this for months. Curry is a little sweeter and less spicy than I expected. I’m not complaining but if I could ask them to change anything, plates instead of deep bowls for the curry and spicer curry options.

Nice home style Japanese food. A little on the pricey side but portions are very large.

Tendon was delicious, a huge pile of well made light tempura.

Katsudon was solid all around, although the breading was fried more to a dark brown than golden brown; could have also been crispier inside, especially compared to other katsudon served in Japan.

Sukiyaki udon: udon was excellent, served in a not too salty tsuyu broth with a rich flavor. Sukiyaki itself was okay, but there were some odd flavors from the beef that weren't fully cooked out (typically indicative of not the freshest beef or not enough sake used in cooking) and the beef was rather tough. Would lean more towards the katsudon.

Karaage was good for a side but a huge pile. Great to share among many people.

This place is absolutely amazing. Fantastic vibe, Amazing staff, food is delicous and pricing is very reasonable. A must try in Alameda if you're around the area. The owner is very accommodating and great to chat with. Also try the mojitos. Just like habanas!