“What’s Cookin” with Michael Castaneda

Midterms are upon us and students are going to want to take a load off. A great place near campus for some good grub is Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ located on N. 19th St. and Callowhill St.. Tables stretch to the back of the building with grills set in the middle of them. At this restaurant guests have the opportunity to cook their own food. It’s a fun way to experience eating out.

What’s also amazing about Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ is their happy hour special, which can be up to 50 percent off select alcohol, for those of age.

Being of age, I had the pleasure of drinking a Barbancourt Rum Punch, which is filled deliciously with Barbancourt eight-year rum, Pineapple juice, Fresh lime juice, Triple sec, Orange juice, Sugar, Angostura bitters, Grenadine and Nutmeg. The glass was filled with ice and sat close to 14 inches high. After spending six hours at school and then going straight to work, and doing that for eight hours, my typical 14 hour day was reduced to a tropical paradise.

The tropical drinks are on point at Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ. I had late night drinks with the Editor and local food blogger of Click Go Review, Emma MacDonald, and she had a Caribbean Martini. Her drink came with Captiain Morgan, Malibu Rum, Chambord, Pineapple Juice and Cranberry Juice. “It’s tropical but it’s strong like a martini” she said.

The bartender was charming and made sure that every guest was taken care of properly. People were laughing and enjoying a great night, which is the perfect atmosphere for taking a moment to enjoy yourself after studying and working hard like I know you do.