KUALA LUMPUR, May 2 -- You escape from real life the moment you push through the noren leading you into Kappa Kaisen Izakaya.

Their mascot, a kawaii kappa (Japanese water spirit) riding cowboy style on a fish with a mug of beer, signals loud and clear that you're in for a ride of fun, great food and drinks.

Mimicking the Japanese salary men's favourite after work past time, this casual dive lets you decompress or even banter (over drinks of course) with that boss who just chewed you out at work.

Being kiasu about where you sit is important here, as those coveted front row counter seats allow you to be in the thick of the action, just like watching your own personal cooking show.

Failure to secure such a seat is not the end of the worl...