I wandered into a cafeteria called "Ikkyu" after taking a break. It's close to my house, but once I pass the third intersection, I start to feel a bit lazy. However, hidden in the residential area are some excellent shops. The interior of the restaurant is long and narrow, like a eel's sleeping place. It has a slight snack-like atmosphere, but the high ceiling makes it feel spacious and comfortable. The menu is varied and the prices are quite cheap, starting from 200 yen. They even have oden to warm you up. The sashimi usually includes tuna and octopus, but when I went yesterday, they also had katsu. The slices are quite thick and generous. It feels like going to eat grandma's cooking, a place to relax and unwind. It's perfect for when you're feeling down or tired and just want someone to listen to you.

I found a nice red lantern a little off the main street of Kuramae, a bit past Ryogoku and towards Kinshicho. The menu looked good so I walked through the noren and opened the door to a small cozy place with a long counter. As it was my second stop, I ordered some sashimi with tuna and octopus, both of which were thawed but well done without any fishy smell. Feeling a bit hungry, I also added some homemade dumplings which were comforting and delicious. After finishing the meal, I started chatting with the landlady and another customer who had won an award in a folk music competition. It seems like a place where you might even get to hear the landlady's beautiful singing voice if you visit a little more. Recommended for those interested in folk music.

In the narrow alleys around Kinshicho, the temptation of a dimly lit red lantern catches your eye. Intrigued, you approach the storefront where two whiteboards display the daily specials, with snacks and drinks starting from around 300 yen. The welcoming owner greets you as you enter the small restaurant, where a middle-aged man sits at the counter. The cozy space has only about 12 seats, and you are asked to sit closer together due to a group of regular customers arriving soon from a bowling tournament. The walls are adorned with the names of past winners of the bowling cup held at the restaurant, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere. The restaurant's name, "Otemoyan," comes from the owner's hobby and passion for folk songs. You enjoy a bottle of beer, duck meat skewers, simmered sea bream, highball, and miso hot pot, each dish offering a taste of tradition and warmth. Established in 1987, Otemoyan provides a charming setting and delicious food that will make you fall in love with the place.