あてるい
We used this restaurant for a company party organized by the office manager. Located in the basement of a building on the left side of Hakata Ekimae Street, just a short walk from Hakata Station's Hakata Exit towards the West Japan City Bank direction. The interior of the restaurant is not very spacious, but the sunken kotatsu-style seating can accommodate a large number of people when the dividers are removed, making it convenient for office year-end parties. However, be careful as you may be squeezed in if there are other reservations. When we made our reservation, we were supposed to have more space to sit comfortably, but on the day of the party, we were surprised to find that the tables had been reduced without any prior notice, and we were crammed into a small area. The restaurant is not smoke-free, so those who are sensitive to smoke may need to endure it for a while. Our office manager arranged for a 4,000 yen all-you-can-drink course. It started with the usual sashimi platter, followed by the restaurant's specialty Kyoto skewers platter, salad, meat dishes, and sushi. Just when we thought dessert would be served as the finale, a hot pot of pork shabu-shabu was brought out, which was quite surprising. The variety of dishes was of a high standard and delicious, although apart from the Kyoto skewers, there was nothing particularly unique to this restaurant. Another surprise was the mysterious man who was busy walking back and forth along the aisle next to our table during the party. He was dressed in a regular white shirt with rolled-up sleeves, no tie, and normal business suit pants, giving off a typical salaryman vibe, but upon closer observation, he seemed to be the chief of the restaurant. Overall, if the restaurant had honored the initial agreement by allowing us to use the sunken kotatsu seating more comfortably and implementing proper smoke separation within the establishment, as well as if the chief had dressed more elegantly, the service and atmosphere would have been more commendable. However, considering the quality and quantity of food served for 4,000 yen all-you-can-drink, the value for money is undeniable.