So yes, I'm actually doing a "dessert" type post. Long time readers of our blog know that I don't have much of a sweet tooth and some are a bit surprised when I do a post on sweets. It's kind of a saving grace for me at times. And while no, enjoying desserts isn't a New Year resolution, I've got to come to enjoy the concept of Le Goûter (French afternoon tea), and we've always appreciated a good Japanese style Cheesecake. During our first trip to Tokyo back in 2014, we met up with our friend Reiko for dinner and though I didn't mention it in my post, Reiko gave us a Japanese Cheesecake as an omiyage. We recall having it back at the apartment; it was light, "jiggly", just mildly sweet, with a hint of an almost lemony-citrus flavor. Since then, we've tried different versions of that style of cheesecake when we go to LA. In fact, our good friend "Alle" enjoys the version from Sunmerry, so when the Missus drops by one of the locations in LA for Her pineapple cake we pick a cheesecake for her. She is quite happy to know that it looks like Sunmerry is opening here in San Diego.
When we were in Paris last month, the Missus was craving some Japanese Cheesecake and I found a place named Takumi. The cheesecake was not bad. So, of course after returning I mentioned that we had at least 3 cheesecake places opening in Kearny Mesa and that Uncle Tetsu, which I had noticed back in October had opened. So, the Missus and I drove on over to try out the cheesecake.
This is of course one of those infamous parking lots on Convoy, but it was right at 11am and we found parking. The small shop is located between Kura and Mochinuts.
There are currently four different flavors currently available; original, pandan coconut, ube, and strawberry which costs $13. Service was friendly and quick.
As I mentioned in my previous post Uncle Tetsu originated in Hakata, Japan and according to Eater the Panda Restaurant Group (know them, right?) is managing the brand.
We've currently made two visits where we tried the "original". The cheesecake was consistent.
It's light and fluffy, but not "jiggly" like the Missus prefers. I pick up stronger cream cheese tones and strangely, I thought it could be a bit sweeter! It's also missing the slight almost citrus tanginess that we like. It is quite delicate. The Missus prefers this version slightly refrigerated.
On our second visit we bought one for "Alle" who sent me a text saying: "I like the packaging, it's so fluffy and delicate. Yes, it doesn't jiggle but it's delish."
So there you go.
Now of course, the Missus is waiting for YikoYiko and Sunmerry to open.
If you check out Uncle Tetsu, let me know what you think!
Uncle Tetsu
4609 Convoy St.
San Diego, CA 92111
Current Hours:
Daily 11am - 7pm
looks great :)
Posted by: kat | Monday, 02 January 2023 at 02:21 PM
I haven't been to Uncle Tetsu yet (not wanting to brave that parking lot!). I've been to Uncle Tetsu in Arcadia and in Honolulu, and enjoyed the cheesecakes. I think they were the only two US locations for awhile. Can't wait to try the Sunmerry cheesecake. BTW, none of the new places (by Target/Costco Business) are open yet.
Posted by: Sandy | Monday, 02 January 2023 at 02:25 PM
It was pretty good Kat!
If you do get to the Convoy location of Uncle Tetsu, let me know how it compares Sandy!
Posted by: Kirk | Monday, 02 January 2023 at 04:01 PM
We’re finally getting these places here? How many years later?
Posted by: Som Tommy | Monday, 02 January 2023 at 05:38 PM
Well, isn't that how it usually is ST?
Posted by: Kirk | Monday, 02 January 2023 at 07:54 PM
Oh, I do like fluffy japanese style cheesecake! I'll have to try this out one of these days ^^
Posted by: Lynnea Fleming | Monday, 23 January 2023 at 03:46 PM
Yes, this was not bad Lynnea. And you should have even more choices soon!
Posted by: Kirk | Monday, 23 January 2023 at 05:36 PM