ぽぽぽlぽーん
"KiSuimaru" is one of the up-and-coming seafood restaurants in Fukuoka. Recently, they have created an all-weather food stall alley in the Daimyo area, gaining attention regardless of rain, snow, strong winds, temperature, or toilet issues. Currently, their Tabelog rating is a solid 3.53, indicating high praise. Curious about what they offer, I decided to visit.
The restaurant is located along the Gairinmachi Street, which runs from Daimyo towards Akasaka. Outside the store, there are multiple signs and fluttering noren curtains, making it hard to miss. I arrived at 11:30 AM and entered through the noren. Inside, there were several food stalls, and surprisingly, there was only one group at the first stall. I was quite taken aback by the unexpected quietness, especially since this time would see significant crowds at the KiSuimaru/Solaria location.
After informing the staff that I was visiting alone, I was guided to an available stall, effectively getting a private space just for myself. Orders are placed via QR code. I ordered the "Seafood Tamatoro Don" for 1,290 yen (tax included). At this point, I was captivated by enticing phrases like "fresh seafood," "tuna belly," "generous serving," "endless mentaiko," and "free large rice and refills," raising my expectations to the max.
When the "Seafood Tamatoro Don" arrived, however, I was taken aback. This isn't what I expected… There were some ingredients at the front, but the back was just a layer of shredded egg. I had imagined a bowl overflowing with seafood, but it was far simpler than anticipated. The tuna belly that seemed so plentiful in the menu photos was minimal. Looking closely at the front ingredients, I noticed mentaiko and tobiko that are available for unlimited servings, as well as chopped seaweed and green onions. At least I didn't choose the higher-priced "Dairyo Tamatoro Don," which was a small solace as I lamented.
I transferred the food to a separate dish, first tasting it normally and then adding some fish bone broth. The broth had a strong flavor of sea bream, which, unfortunately, leaned more toward a pungent profile than umami. I adjusted it with sesame sauce from the table. Both the takana and mentaiko were available in small jars for unlimited portions. Given the balance of toppings and large rice, I decided to enjoy half of the rice with the mentaiko and takana.
Typically, "large rice" and "endless mentaiko" would score big points, but this time they seemed like excuses to justify my disappointment with the dish. I couldn't help but wonder about the cost-effectiveness. Having been to several locations of KiSuimaru before, I felt even more let down this time. The disparity between my previous experiences and this meal was disheartening.
On a positive note, the staff maintained a welcoming attitude like those at other locations. If I visit again, perhaps in winter, I might try the oden menu. Thank you for the meal.