Honest Review: The Unagi Bowl at Mua — A Memorable Lunchtime Indulgence

A Go-To Spot for an Unforgettable Lunch Break

Choosing a lunch spot near City Hall can be tricky, with many places focusing on quick bites. Mua stands out with its calm ambiance and comfy seating, making it ideal for a leisurely meal. I tried their Unagi Bowl, and though it's a bit pricey, it's certainly justifiable for a treat.

Location & Atmosphere

Accessibility

Located close to City Hall, Mua is easy to find and access, though it can get crowded during lunch rush. I recommend arriving 10–15 minutes early.

Ambiance

The place is tidy and quiet, perfect for solo dining or conversations, with ample space between tables to ensure privacy.

The Main Event: Unagi Bowl Experience

Flavor: Savory Goodness

The sauce on the Unagi Bowl isn’t overly sweet but offers a savory delight, ensuring the flavors don’t become overwhelming. The eel has a nicely grilled exterior with a succulent interior, with no fishy aroma evident.

Texture: Satisfying Thickness

Unlike some places where the eel can be too thin, Mua’s Unagi offers a satisfying bite — it’s easy to manage with chopsticks without falling apart easily.

Composition: Well-Balanced Sides

The Unagi Bowl’s flavors can grow monotone, but the complementary sides offer a nice break, preventing a repetitive eel-and-rice combo. Sides may vary with your visit.

Tips for Enjoying Your Meal

1) Start with the Eel

The rich taste of the eel can be overshadowed if mixed with rice from the start. Enjoy the first bite of eel on its own, then mix with rice for a fulfilling experience.

2) Moderate the Sauce

Since the sauce is flavorful, avoid mixing it through all the rice at once — it might get too salty by the end. I found that mixing halfway through and savoring it in stages maintained balance.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Minimal fishy taste, with delightful grilled aroma
• Sauce isn’t overly sweet, sustaining interest till the end
• Quiet ambiance enhances dining focus
• Convenient City Hall location for easy meet-ups

Cons

• High price point might deter frequent visits
• Possible wait during lunch peak
• May feel too mild for those who prefer strong spicy or sweet flavors

Recommended For

Ideal For

• Anyone seeking a quiet, quality meal near City Hall
• Unagi lovers who prefer less sweet or greasy versions
• Those looking for a subtle yet classy menu for gatherings and meetings

Perfect Situations

• Lunch: When in need of a lunch that refreshes, not just fills
• Dinner: Prefer a clean finish rather than heavy drinking

Overall Impressions

Mua's Unagi Bowl offers a clean yet satisfying flavor, perfect for those not looking for flashy spice. While it is on the pricier side, it’s a great choice for a “worth it” meal outing near City Hall. Next time, I’m tempted to explore other menu offerings to compare.