Gekko

Gekko is a Japanese izakaya at 535 Merchant Road in Kyauktada Township, in the downtown grid of Yangon, Myanmar. An izakaya is a Japanese pub where drinks and small dishes are ordered continuously through the evening, and the venue follows that model with a menu of grilled skewers, sashimi, grilled fish and other shared plates. Signature dishes include yakitori, chicken and other skewers grilled over heat and seasoned with salt or tare sauce, as well as sashimi and grilled fish, which are typically ordered alongside rice or noodles toward the end of a meal. The format encourages ordering several small dishes at a time and sharing, which suits groups and longer evenings. The dining room is lively and informal, with a social atmosphere, moderate to high noise levels in the evening and casual dress. Beverages are central to the experience, with beer, sake, shochu and Japanese-style cocktails typical of the format, alongside soft drinks and tea. Prices fall in the mid-range ($$) bracket for Yangon, although seafood and imported drinks can increase a bill. Reservations are recommended on weekends, when the room fills with groups, while weekday evenings are easier to manage with a walk-in visit. The restaurant typically opens in the evening, so visitors should verify hours before travelling. The Merchant Road location is in the heart of downtown, close to City Hall, Sule Pagoda and the Strand riverfront, making it simple to reach on foot from many downtown hotels. Visitors can pair the izakaya with a heritage walk earlier in the day and finish with a late dinner. Those with dietary restrictions should check ingredients, as soy, fish and shellfish feature heavily in the menu. Ordering a mixed skewer selection is a practical way to sample the kitchen.