Food and Drink

In the middle of Shibuya, it would seem that people are far more interested in graffiti than grocery shopping. Yet somehow, in some way, this fascinating little shop soldiers on, creating a bygone sanctuary of sorts amidst the noise and modernity of the busy streets nearby.

Despite the far from modern surroundings, this small Tokyo bar has only been around — at least in its present form — for just over a decade, making it practically new compared to lots of other, similarly tiny establishments. But, despite being a relatively new kid on the block, it still has that wonderfully relaxed, rough and ready approach that is so often the feature of such places. Meaning the prices are low. The food is whatever the owner has chosen to prepare that day. And the customers are talked to, or tactfully left to their own devices, depending on what it is they are after.

Whatever the weather, and whatever the season, ramen is a firm Japanese favourite. A love affair that means one is never far away from a place specialising in the stuff. Some are fancy. Some are big. But more often than not they are tiny, tumbledown places like this. And invariably they are all the better for it.

Unlike many other kinds of eateries, cleanliness isn’t something one necessarily looks for when it comes to yakitori. In fact, it arguably involves an inverse correlation of sorts (if that makes any kind of sense), meaning the dirtier the place is, the more delicious the food will be. An idea that would suggest the chicken on a stick in this place is top notch.

A conclusion I can happily confirm is absolutely spot on.