A friend who has since relocated to Florida but was previously known (to me anyway) as “the Mayor of Garden City” first tipped me off to the original Ebisu on Pontiac Avenue in Providence a few years ago.

They have since expanded to a second location, aptly named Ebisu.2, over on Warren Avenue in East Providence, so our friends in that neck of the woods don’t have to miss out.

Of course, I ADORE that they have vegetarian options (see a photo from my camera roll at the bottom), but there’s a whole lot more to this underrated destination for Japanese comfort food.

It’s not fancy or Insta FAMOUS (no selfie walls or trending hashtags to speak of, folks): I mean, you’ve probably motored past the one on Pontiac dozens and dozens of times without even realizing.

Once you have been seated, though, you will understand exactly why it has such a devoted following in real life — the food is truly amazing!

They have an extensive menu of scrumptious small plates, ramen, and shabu shabu (a classic hotpot dish), not to mention daily specials.

It’s THE PLACE to go with friends or fam who appreciate flavorsome Asian food in a casual, no frills and super friendly environment. (Pssst…We all have those people in our lives who live for frequenting delightful restaurants that are kinda sorta under-the-radar.)

Go for the Hakka Eggplant, Veggie Rice Burger, and Miso Ramen, and stay for the Japanese craft beer, fried ice cream, and Miso DOUGHNUTS.

Find Ebisu at 38 Pontiac Avenue in Providence, RI.

As always, if you go after reading THIS, please do let them know you were inspired by Patty J and PattyJ.com.