I visited Robata and Oden Yorunagi near Kokura Station after coming from Fukuoka! Even though it was a weekday, the restaurant was bustling with a lot of customers. As a side dish, they serve oden, which is surprisingly… all-you-can-eat! I was really amazed that such a delicious option was available at this price! The gentle broth was very tasty. They had many varieties like egg, konnyaku, shirataki, chikuwa, thick fried tofu, and daikon, making me very satisfied even before the main dishes! I noticed many customers were having seconds as it was so good! They also offer set meals and all-you-can-drink options, providing great value for the price. This time, I ordered a la carte, and everything was delicious! Here’s what I had: - **Sashimi plate**: It had a generous portion with thick slices, making it very satisfying to eat! The freshness was excellent. - **Avocado sashimi**: The avocado was perfectly ripe, topped with green onion and bonito flakes, and was very tasty. - **Koropotato salad**: This had a huge portion with round potato pieces, providing a strong potato flavor that was delicious. - **Angel shrimp skewers**: You can eat these shrimp with the shell on! They were sweet and crispy, and I enjoyed them thoroughly. - **Sweet potato sticks with butter**: These had a dessert-like quality and were served with honey, likely appealing to women! I couldn’t resist eating them even when I was full! - **Five grilled chicken skewers**: Each one was perfectly grilled and delicious. - **Matcha monaka**: As a matcha lover, I absolutely enjoyed the combination of matcha ice cream and monaka. - **Homemade baked pudding**: This pudding was lightly sweetened and had a refreshing taste. With such a wide variety of menu items, I found so many things I wanted to try, and I definitely want to visit again. There were also eye-catching luxurious dishes featuring roe and sea urchin that I’d love to order next time. The staff was busy but remained cheerful and provided attentive service, making it a wonderful restaurant experience!

Today, I visited Robata and Oden Hiro Nagikatsu. The restaurant is just a short walk from Kokura Station, located near the entrance of the Fish Town shopping arcade, and there’s a sign right at the entrance making it easy to find. The restaurant is on the second floor, but there are stairs and an elevator available. I went on a weekday at 5 PM, but the place was fully packed until 8 PM, which shows how popular it is. The clientele varied in age, creating a lively atmosphere. The oden (Japanese hot pot) is 550 yen and comes as an all-you-can-eat appetizer. The first items served included daikon radish, egg, konnyaku, fried tofu, shirataki noodles, and fried fish cake. The lightly flavored dashi was delicious, making it feel like I could eat it endlessly. It’s amazing that this is all-you-can-eat. For refills, one representative from the group goes to the oden corner at the counter with the large bowl originally served. I ordered the sliced buri (yellowtail sashimi) for 748 yen, topped with cut lemon for a refreshing touch. The buri was rich and thick, providing a satisfying bite. It was garnished with plump, tiny marine fish and shiso leaves. The young chicken karaage (Japanese fried chicken) was 858 yen and came with a side salad. The chicken thigh was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a slightly spicy, sweet sauce drizzled on top. I recommend eating the salad and chicken together. The mixed grilled chicken skewers (5 pieces) were 869 yen, featuring momo (thigh), yagen nankotsu (cartilage), sunagimo (gizzard), seseri (neck), and skin. Considering it’s just over 150 yen per skewer, it’s quite affordable. The thighs and seseri were juicy and tender, the skin was soft, the gizzard was satisfyingly chewy, and the cartilage had the proper texture. I also tried the grilled silver salmon topped with ikura (salmon roe) for 968 yen. It came with a generous amount of grated daikon and looked impressive. The salmon was tender, and I recommend drizzling some soy sauce on the daikon before eating it with the salmon and ikura. When I come alone for a drink, the oden and the grilled salmon with ikura would really satisfy me. I had tomato kimchi for 385 yen, featuring a refreshingly slightly tangy kimchi topped with tomato and green onion, which paired well with the fresh tomato. The half-boiled egg on the koropotato salad was 528 yen, where the creamy yolk mixed with pink-colored mashed potato, seasoned with pepper, making it a perfect snack with drinks. Lastly, the crab lettuce fried rice was 858 yen, featuring crab meat in a light-flavored salt fried rice. The saltiness was just right, and the rice was fluffy and easy to eat.

The restaurant is located on the second floor of a building near a major street and is also close to the station, making it easy to enter. The tables have power outlets, which I thought was considerate. The semi-private booths allowed me to relax without worrying too much about the surrounding eyes. Since it operates on a mobile order system, I could place my order at my own pace, and I could easily review my order history, which was reassuring. * The appetizer, oden, had a gentle flavor that made it easy to eat, especially the radish, which was well-infused with taste and delicious. The fact that refills are free is a nice point (refills are picked up by a representative at the counter). * The yellowtail sashimi was fresh with great color and taste, so delicious that I felt I could eat as much as I wanted. * The homemade tomato kimchi was an unexpected combination, but the acidity of the tomato and kimchi went well together, making it light and easy to eat. It was perfect as an appetizer or palate cleanser. * The potato salad topped with half a boiled egg had a light flavor but was seasoned with pepper, which made it go well with drinks. The chunky texture of the potatoes was enjoyable. * The grilled salmon with salmon roe was thick and packed with flavor, making it satisfying to eat. The generous amount of roe was also very satisfying. * The fried chicken with a crispy batter was an irresistible combination of crunchiness and juiciness, and the spiciness of the sauce was just right, making it a personal favorite. * The assorted grilled chicken skewers included five types: thigh, soft cartilage, gizzard, neck, and skin, all seasoned to pair well with drinks. It felt like a great deal to try various types of yakitori. * The crab lettuce fried rice had just the right volume for finishing the meal. It had a slightly rich flavor, making it suitable as a snack. I appreciated the addition of lettuce. * The light celery pickles were truly refreshing, and the sprinkle of chili made them enhance the drinking experience. * The umeshu on the rocks had the right amount of sweetness and richness, making it incredibly easy to drink. I found myself needing to be cautious not to overindulge (laughs). The options included beer, chuhai, sake, shochu, as well as hoppy and wine, which was delightful. I visited on a weekday evening, and there was a lively atmosphere with a diverse crowd ranging from young people to seniors, making it a place suitable for various occasions. It seems there are spacious seats as well, so I’m looking forward to trying it for a year-end party soon.

I had made a reservation for the course meal, and the oden was delicious, as were all the other dishes. If it were just about the food, I would give it 4 stars. However, the attitude of the staff was extremely poor and it ruined my mood. Because of this, I lost the motivation to take photos, and the atmosphere was completely spoiled. It's a great disappointment, especially since the food was so good.

I visited "Robata to Oden Kironaguri Kokura Ekimae" located on the second floor of a building near Kokura Station. During my visit, I chose to sit at the counter and ordered a la carte. The restaurant offers creative dishes made with fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients at reasonable prices. The highlight is the complimentary oden (Japanese winter stew) served as an appetizer, available for ¥500 with unlimited refills. You can enjoy nine types of oden including daikon, egg, shumai, hanpen, thick fried tofu, shirataki, konnyaku, octopus feet (limited time), and satsuma-age. This makes it an attractive option for everyone, regardless of gender. With both counter and table seating, it’s easy to pop in for a quick bite alone. The service was attentive, and the convenient location and affordable prices make this a great spot. - **Oden Appetizer (unlimited refills)**: They bring a plate of assorted oden to the table. For refills, you can take your bowl to the central oden counter and choose your favorite ingredients. Each piece was delicious, soaking in flavorful broth, but I particularly enjoyed the soft, tender daikon. - **Donko Shiitake**: These were juicy and thick shiitake mushrooms, simply seasoned to enhance the natural flavors. - **Ume Suishou**: A perfect accompaniment for drinks. I refrained from alcohol during my visit, but it’s a flavor that would go well with beverages. - **Angel Shrimp Skewer**: You can eat the entire shrimp, from tail to head. It was soft and tasty. - **Spicy Yodare Chicken**: Tender chicken topped with a generous amount of spicy sauce. Eating it with the thinly sliced onions underneath is recommended. - **Octopus Karaage with Daikon Ponzu**: Fried octopus drizzled with grated daikon ponzu, making it a refreshing dish. - **Crab Lettuce Fried Rice**: With crispy lettuce and fluffy rice, it was very much to my liking. **Restaurant Information:** - **Name**: Robata to Oden Kironaguri Kokura Ekimae - **Address**: 2-5-8 Uomachi, Kokura Kita Ward, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, 2F Raffinere Earth Court Uomachi - **Nearest Station**: 5-minute walk from Kokura Station - **Phone**: 050-5593-1107 - **Hours**: 16:00 – 00:00 - **Closed**: Irregular holidays - **Budget**: Up to ¥2,999 - **Payment Methods**: Cards accepted; no electronic money or QR code payments - **Notes**: Reservations accepted, private rooms available, can be booked for exclusive use, all seats are smoking permissible. **Order Summary:** - Oden Appetizer (unlimited refills) - Donko Shiitake ¥638 - Ume Suishou ¥528 - Angel Shrimp Skewer ¥528 - Spicy Yodare Chicken ¥638 - Octopus Karaage with Daikon Ponzu ¥748 - Crab Lettuce Fried Rice ¥858 - Ginger Ale ¥418

**Nearest Station**: Kokura Station, 5-minute walk **Visit Time**: Sunday, around 6 PM **Purpose**: Dinner **Closed**: Irregular days **Reservation**: Available **Number of People**: 2 **Budget**: 4,000 to 5,000 yen **Order Details**: - Sashimi Platter (5 pieces) 1,580 yen per person (tax included 3,476 yen) - Grilled Chicken Skewers (5 pieces) 869 yen - Choregi Salad (Korean Style) 638 yen - Fried Eggplant in Dashi 638 yen - Grilled Scallops with Butter 638 yen - All-you-can-eat Oden (500 yen) **Recommended For**: People who want to enjoy drinks at a relaxed izakaya near Kokura Station. Suitable for groups, couples, or even solo dining at the counter. **Overview**: "Robatato Oden Kironagi Kokura Ekimae" is a place where you can enjoy superb oden. Located just a 6-minute walk from Kokura Station, it offers a great atmosphere with counter and table seating suitable for couples, groups, or solo diners. For just 500 yen, you can enjoy all-you-can-eat oden, featuring classic items like daikon, eggs, thread konnyaku, and thick fried tofu, as well as surprisingly delicious shumai. The drink selection is diverse, and I personally found that the combination with sake was exceptional. This is a place you'll want to visit again! **Review**: - **Sashimi Platter (5 pieces) 1,580 yen per person (tax included 3,476 yen)**: The sashimi, which includes salmon, yellowtail, tuna, amberjack, and sea bream, was very fresh, and the combination with sake was excellent! The salmon, in particular, had a sweetness, and its melt-in-your-mouth texture was addictive. - **Grilled Chicken Skewers (5 pieces) 869 yen**: The crunchy gizzards and crispy skin paired perfectly with highball drinks. The grilled chicken was seasoned with salt and pepper, making it delicious! - **Choregi Salad (Korean Style) 638 yen**: The fresh vegetables combined with a flavorful dressing made for a perfect appetizer. The addition of Korean seaweed made it very enjoyable! - **Fried Eggplant in Dashi 638 yen**: The soft eggplant absorbed the dashi well, offering a strong sweet flavor! It went wonderfully with bonito flakes. - **Grilled Scallops with Butter 638 yen**: You can't go wrong with the combination of scallops and butter soy sauce. The rich flavor complemented the sweetness of the scallops, making it a fantastic pairing with highballs! - **All-you-can-eat Oden (500 yen)**: The daikon, soaked in dashi, was exquisite, and its refined taste filled my mouth with delight! The oden also featured unusual shumai, which I highly recommend trying. For only 500 yen to enjoy such high-quality oden is an incredible value! Thank you for the meal!

Oden is served as an appetizer for 500 yen, and you can enjoy an all-you-can-eat option for two hours. The eggs and shumai were delicious, and I kept eating them... Unfortunately, the octopus feet were sold out, so I couldn't try them, which was disappointing. When I chose the all-you-can-drink option for 1980 yen, it required each person to order two dishes and an additional 500 yen, so I ended up getting quite full just from that; it was really cost-effective. The quail eggs and yakitori were also tasty. If I hadn’t opted for the all-you-can-drink, it's reasonable to say that the 500 yen appetizer could fill you up completely... I just happened to stop by this place, and it turned out to be a fantastic restaurant!

Located just a 5-minute walk from Kokura Station, this place is perfect for a casual drink after work. I visited the restaurant on a weekday at around 4:30 PM. Since it was just after opening, there were still few customers, allowing me to relax, but by the time I was leaving, the counter seats were fully occupied. At this time of day, there were many solo diners. Although there are limited counter seats, the restaurant has plenty of table seating, making it suitable for larger gatherings. One of the highlights here is the unlimited oden (a type of Japanese stew) for just 500 yen. It was served alongside my drink order, featuring seven items: daikon radish, egg, fried tofu, fish cake (satsuma-age), chikuwa (fish sausage), shirataki (konjac noodles), and shumai (dumplings). The daikon was tender, infused with a rich broth, making it incredibly delicious. I found myself wanting more. The restaurant offers more than just oden; you can also enjoy a variety of dishes like sashimi and yakitori. The service was commendable, with staff promptly clearing empty plates and paying attention to details. I tried the Choregik salad (Korean-style) for 638 yen, which had crispy seaweed and plenty of vegetables. It was refreshingly delicious and perfectly seasoned to pair with drinks. Both skin and gizzards skewers, priced at 418 yen for two each, were packed with meat and offered great value. The gizzards had a pleasant texture, while the skin was soft instead of crispy. The Ume Suishou (ume-flavored jelly with shark cartilage), priced at 528 yen, offered a sweet and tangy taste that made for a perfect snack. The tuna sashimi for 858 yen was thick and satisfying, while the sea urchin sashimi for 1,628 yen, topped with ikura (salmon roe), was fresh and rich, making it a great match for sake. The butter-grilled scallops, priced at 748 yen, came with several small scallops and were delicious with a sweet butter accent. The seafood nori roll with yukhoe for 1,078 yen featured fresh seafood mixed with a runny egg wrapped in seaweed, reminiscent of a Korean-style dish and very tasty. For dessert, I had a vanilla monaka for 418 yen, which had a crispy outer shell and a light vanilla filling, perfect after a meal. I also enjoyed a non-alcoholic beer for 528 yen, ginger ale for 418 yen, and hot jasmine tea for 418 yen.

The all-you-can-eat oden is commendable, but the service for the dishes was lacking... The sashimi wasn't very good, and three items I ordered still hadn't arrived even after an hour and a half. Well, I was able to enjoy some drinks with the oden, and the all-you-can-drink option was 1980, so that was good. I ended up paying for everything myself.

The review mentions that although the restaurant advertises all-you-can-eat oden for a 500 yen cover charge, the reality is that the sashimi platter for one, priced at 1580 yen, arrived very quickly. However, the quality of the sashimi platter is quite low, ranking much lower compared to other dishes, and it is on the expensive side. If you're considering ordering the sashimi platter, it's better to choose something else. On a positive note, the two-hour all-you-can-drink option for 1980 yen could be booked on the same day, which was a nice surprise. All the staff members were very friendly.

I visited "Robata to Oden Yorunaki Kokura Ekimae" at 4:30 PM on a weekday. Since I arrived right after opening, the restaurant was still quiet and had a relaxed atmosphere, allowing me to enjoy my time there. However, by the time I was leaving, most of the counter seats were nearly full, particularly with solo diners. This time of day seems perfect for those looking to drop in casually and enjoy a drink. The appetizer included a variety of seven types of oden: daikon radish, egg, thick fried tofu, satsuma-age, chikuwa (fish cake), shirataki (kanpyo), and shumai. I was especially impressed with the daikon, which was tender and infused with flavorful dashi. Having oden served at this moment was a delightful surprise that heightened my expectations. The "Choregi Salad" had a fun texture with crispy seaweed, packed with plenty of vegetables, and a refreshing taste that stood out. The seasoning was just right, making it a perfect match for the drinks. The chicken skin and gizzards skewers were substantial and offered good value. The gizzards had a satisfying crunch, while the chicken skin was softer than usual. It was a different style from the typically crispy chicken skin but was fresh and delicious in its own right. The "Ume Suikyou" (plum crystal) featured a refreshing sourness from the plum paired with the crunchy texture of shark cartilage, making it an excellent small snack to complement the drinks. The thick-cut tuna sashimi was filling and bursting with fresh flavor. It was a simple yet satisfying dish that clearly showcased the quality. The sea urchin sashimi, topped with salmon roe, allowed me to enjoy the rich taste of the sea urchin. The concentrated umami of the ocean made it ideal to pair with sake. The butter-grilled scallops, though small, came in several pieces, and the sweet butter enhanced the scallops’ flavor beautifully. The richness of the butter was a great accent, making them irresistible. The seafood nori-wrapped yukhoe featured fresh seafood and a raw egg that blended harmoniously, and the flavor had a strong Korean influence. It was filling and left me very satisfied. The vanilla monaka (wafer) had a pleasant crunch, and the light sweetness of the vanilla made it a perfect palate cleanser after the meal. It wasn’t too heavy, making it ideal as a meal finale. Overall, the restaurant offered a wide variety of carefully prepared dishes. Alongside traditional robatayaki and oden, the inclusion of Korean-style menu items allows it to cater to diverse tastes. I look forward to inviting friends to experience the lively evening atmosphere next time. "Yorunaki" is a fantastic place to enjoy drinks and meal options, whether you're dining alone or in a group near Kokura Station.

I'm happy that the second serving of oden is free! The flavor is mild, and there were so many ingredients that I felt like I could get full just from the oden, haha. Oden is served by the staff, so I have to call them every time, which is a bit of a hassle. I understand there are hygiene and management reasons for this, but it would be fun if we could serve it ourselves! Also, the pickled quail eggs were delicious, and I couldn't stop eating them, haha. It was a pleasant surprise to find Hoppi available since it's rare in Ogura. The restaurant was spacious but nearly full, so it seems safer to make a reservation.

I visited "Robata to Oden Koto Naki Kokura Ekimae" about a 5-minute walk from Kokura Station in Fukuoka Prefecture. ◽️ Atmosphere Even on a weekday, the place was quite busy with walk-in customers, so I recommend making a reservation! The layout is spacious, with table seats available. If you’re in a group of 2 or 3, sitting at the counter is advisable since you need to bring your plate to the counter for refills of oden. It’s unique for a restaurant to have outlets and USB ports at the counter, which is quite convenient. When your plate is empty, the staff kindly asks, "Would you like to refill your oden? The shumai is highly recommended!" Their attentiveness made a great impression. Many of the servers were beautiful and provided very polite service. ◽️ Dishes - The complimentary oden set included daikon radish, konnyaku, egg, satsuma-age, thick fried tofu, and chikuwa. You can order additional items from the oden pot at the counter. Everyone around was ordering more! I had daikon, shirataki, octopus legs, shumai (highly recommended by the staff), and egg as refills. Everything was delicious, but the egg white was particularly plump and tasty. The daikon had absorbed so much broth, and it would pair perfectly with sake. - The strawberry sours were delightful, as they used two whole strawberries, which felt luxurious. - The celery pickles were a nice palate cleanser, seasoned with what seemed like shichimi (Japanese seven spice), making it a bit spicy, great for those who like heat and enjoy drinking. - The edamame were large and impressive! They weren't specially seasoned, but they served well as a side dish. - The truffle-flavored potato fries were delicious and fluffy; I highly recommend them. - Sweet potato fries were served with honey for dipping, but they were tasty even without it. Occasionally, they had a flavor reminiscent of karinto (a sweet deep-fried snack), which was excellent. - The grilled salmon with ikura and daikon had a gentle seasoning that let the natural flavors shine through, and the portion was satisfying. - The fried eggplant in broth was something you'd want to pair with rice. The eggplant was generously topped with bonito flakes. - The grilled nagaimo (Japanese yam) was the crunchy type, not the soft one. ◽️ Orders - Complimentary oden: 500 yen - Fresh strawberry sour: 638 yen - Sweet potato fries with butter: 528 yen - Truffle-flavored potato fries: 638 yen - Fried eggplant in broth: 638 yen - Rare grilled nagaimo: 528 yen - Grilled salmon with ikura and daikon: 968 yen - Pickled cucumber: 330 yen - Lightly pickled celery: 385 yen - Edamame: 528 yen ◆ About Me I love food and drinks and often explore Tokyo! I also have an Instagram, so feel free to follow me @aki19.95!

I was drawn to the all-you-can-eat oden appetizer and decided to visit. The restaurant was spacious with many seats, but it was already full. The first serving of oden I received was cold, which was a bit disappointing, but the second serving was hot and delicious. Personally, the grilled salmon with ikura on top was absolutely amazing.

**Restaurant Name:** Robata and Oden Kuronaki Kokura Ekimae **Pre-post Tabelog Rating:** 3.54 (71 reviews) **Access:** About a 5-minute walk from Kokura Station, about a 1-minute walk from Heiwadori Station **Seating Capacity:** 122 seats **Recommended for:** Those who want to enjoy plenty of oden and seafood, and those looking for spacious seating. **Visit Time:** Around 7 PM on a Thursday I arrived in Kokura for a business trip in Fukuoka. This restaurant, located near the station, is known for its robatayaki and oden, and had highly praised reviews, so I decided to check it out! The restaurant has just opened recently (March) and has a bright interior with a wooden motif that shines; the atmosphere is amazing with lanterns hanging from the ceiling. To my surprise, they offer all-you-can-eat oden for just 500 yen. It was getting a bit cold, and since I'm a big fan of oden, I decided to treat myself! Overall, the flavors were rich and well-infused, but the standout for me was the "hanpen" (a type of fish cake)! It was soft and melted in my mouth the moment I took a bite. Although it's a standard oden ingredient, the texture was impressively fluffy! The "daikon" (radish) was also memorable; it was thoroughly soaked in broth and burst with umami flavor when bitten into. Now, let me share the dishes we ordered: ♢ **Seafood Chijimi:** This crispy outer layer combined with the chewy filling was exceptional. The special sauce paired perfectly, making it an excellent match with draft beer! The freshness of the seafood made it extremely delicious. ♢ **Braised Beef Tendon with Demi-Glace Sauce (with baguette):** The braised beef tendon was cooked to perfect tenderness and coated in rich demi-glace sauce. Eating it on a baguette enhanced the decadent taste! It was quite satisfying. ♢ **Cheesy Ham Cutlet:** Enveloped in a crispy coating, the melty cheese oozed out with the first bite. The richness of the cheese harmonized beautifully with the saltiness of the ham, making it a must-try for cheese lovers; my friend was blown away! ♢ **Grilled Chicken Skewers (Heart, Skin, Chicken Neck):** The yakitori was also a highlight! The "heart" had a nice chewy texture and perfect saltiness. The "skin" was large and satisfying, full of flavor! The "neck" was fluffy and juicy, each skewer delivering a satisfying experience. ♢ **Sashimi (Salmon, Yellowtail):** The seafood was terrific! The salmon was fatty and melted in my mouth, while the yellowtail was refreshing and mild, with the freshness shining through! ♢ **Snow Crab and Sea Urchin Treasure Sushi:** This was sheer indulgence! The generous mound of snow crab and a hefty scoop of sea urchin was heavenly. It brought pure bliss in one bite, encapsulating the flavors of the sea! ♢ **Cheese Sticks:** Served with a berry sauce, this was a delightful surprise! It felt like eating a dessert, with the sweet and tangy sauce balanced perfectly against the cheese’s saltiness. ♢ **Chilled Cucumbers:** Crisp cucumbers dressed with a salt sauce and salt kelp were delightful. Cut into easy-to-eat sizes, they were perfect as a refreshing side dish. ♢ **Aosa Seaweed Omelet:** The fluffy omelet featured a subtle aroma of aosa seaweed. With a rich broth flavor spreading smoothly in the mouth, it was a beautifully executed dish. ♢ **Angel Shrimp Skewers:** The shrimp skewers were wonderfully fluffy. Juicy yet light, they were an exquisite treat! Grilled to perfection, they highlighted the shrimp's natural flavor. ♢ **Seasonal Sherbet (Yuzu Flavor):** The refreshing yuzu hit the spot after the meal. With a light aftertaste, it made for a pleasant dessert after the heavier dishes. Despite the extensive menu, everything we tried was outstanding. The local ingredients really shone, especially the seafood! The all-you-can-eat oden system is unique and likely draws in crowds during the chilly season.

Although the hot days continue, I decided to visit a restaurant that offers all-you-can-eat oden. I was informed that if I order two dishes per person, I can enjoy unlimited oden, and I also ordered an all-you-can-drink option. There were about six types of oden available, and the style was to grab more from the counter when it ran out. I really enjoyed the light-flavored oden and had a lot of my favorite konjac. A group of four of us fully enjoyed summer oden together.

Recently, I visited "Robata and Oden Kiyorin Naki Okura Station Branch." It's within walking distance from Okura Station, making it a perfect spot for after-work meals or gathering with friends. The exterior of the restaurant is casual yet has a nice charm, which built up my excitement even before entering. Upon entering, I'm greeted by warm wooden decor and soft lighting. The ambiance is cozy, making you want to linger. From the counter seats, you can watch the chefs preparing dishes over the robata grill, providing a lively atmosphere that keeps you entertained even if you're dining alone. There are also table seats available, allowing for a comfortable experience for groups. The staff is friendly and accommodating, making me feel like a regular customer even though it was my first visit. Now, about the food; the "robata-yaki" (grilled dishes) was outstanding. The grilled shrimp, in particular, had a wonderful aroma and perfect seasoning, delivering an incredible umami flavor the moment it hit my palate. The shrimp's juicy texture was delightful, and I highly recommend it! I also tried grilled turban shell and shishamo (salt-grilled smelt), and each dish showcased the quality of the ingredients, delivering a simple yet deep taste. I mustn't forget the oden. The daikon, konnyaku, and thick fried tofu were perfectly simmered, infused with rich broth flavor. The generous portions of the ingredients made for a hearty experience, warming both body and soul. The oden pot was visible in the restaurant, and watching it bubble away was enough to whet my appetite. Savoring the oden that had absorbed all the delectable broth made me feel wonderfully comforted and provided a slice of happiness. Additionally, there is a variety of fresh seafood options, such as ikura (salmon roe) and sea urchin gunkan (sushi). The texture of the ikura bursting in your mouth, paired with the sweetness of the rice, was fantastic and went excellently with beer. Sharing these dishes with friends was enjoyable, and their vivid presentation made for great photo opportunities. The drink selection is also extensive, especially with a rich variety of sake. I was recommended a local sake, and it paired wonderfully with the dishes, encouraging me to keep eating. Overall, I think "Robata and Oden Kiyorin Naki Okura Station Branch" offers delicious food and warm service, providing a delightful experience. It's particularly perfect for the colder months, as the oden and sake warm both body and heart. I encourage everyone to visit at least once—you’re sure to be greeted with tasty food and fun times!

The restaurant opened in March this year, located about a 5-minute walk from Kokura Station, making it easily accessible. I visited during my trip to Kokura! This popular chain has locations across the country, and the Tokyo Shinjuku branch ranked first in the Tabelog access ranking in January 2024! The restaurant is on the second floor, and upon entering, you'll find a spacious and warm atmosphere with private rooms, table seats, and a counter. There’s an oden counter right at the entrance, offering all-you-can-eat oden for just 500 yen! It’s incredibly cheap and a great deal! There are nine types of oden available, including daikon radish, egg, konnyaku, fried tofu, hanpen, shirataki, satsuma-age, octopus legs, and shumai. The daikon is deliciously infused with broth, and the inclusion of shumai in the oden is truly exquisite! It’s impressive to have such quality for a five hundred yen all-you-can-eat option! The staff initially brings several types of oden as a starter, and you can ask them to get more later. Many customers were going back for seconds! The menu also offers course options, which are quite a bargain: - 2-hour all-you-can-drink, 7 dishes for 3,500 yen - 2.5-hour all-you-can-drink, 9 dishes for 4,000 yen - 2.5-hour all-you-can-drink, 10 dishes for 5,000 yen Going for a course is definitely recommended for good value! What I had: - **Sashimi Salmon**: The salmon was rich and delicious! - **Grilled Chicken (5 skewers)**: Includes thigh, cartilage, gizzards, tender neck, and skin. They were crispy and juicy, with the cartilage having a nice crunch. - **Tomato Kimchi**: The combination of tomato and kimchi surprisingly matched well; it's a recommended dish! - **Donko Shiitake**: The thick shiitake mushrooms were delicious, whether eaten plain or with soy sauce. - **Angel Prawn Skewers**: You can eat them whole with the shell, packed with shrimp flavor; even the head is tasty! - **Melty Cheese Ham Cutlet**: A thick ham cutlet topped with cheese—it's a guilty pleasure you can't resist! - **Crab Lettuce Fried Rice**: The crisp lettuce and crab's umami work perfectly together, making it ideal as a final dish or even as a starter. - **Stir-fried Udon**: For my last dish. - **Sweet Potato with Butter**: Crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, dipped in honey—it's delicious for sure! By around 7 PM on weekdays, the restaurant was bustling with guests, so it's advisable to make a reservation! The staff were friendly, making it a great place for solo diners or larger groups and gatherings with friends!

A few days ago, I made a reservation as soon as the restaurant opened and visited on Sunday at 4 PM. When I arrived, the restaurant had just opened and was still quiet, but by around 5 PM, a third of the seats were already filled, which surprised me with its popularity. The clientele was diverse, comprising families, couples, and groups of friends, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere. Making a reservation in advance was definitely a smart move. Now, regarding the food, the first dish that impressed me was the "shaved cucumber." It was seasoned with salt sauce and salted kelp, allowing us to enjoy the cucumber's naturally crisp texture. The refreshing flavor made it perfect as a snack with drinks. Additionally, the "seafood and avocado salad of the day" was exquisite, filled with plenty of white fish sashimi, along with salad greens, seaweed, and avocado. The wasabi-soy sauce dressing enhanced the ingredients' flavors, especially the creamy avocado, which added a rich smoothness to the salad. Another recommendation is the "angel shrimp skewer," which can be eaten whole, shell and all. The shrimp, seasoned with salt, was served on a skewer, allowing a unique experience of enjoying the crisp texture of the shell alongside the tender and sweet shrimp flesh. One of the highlights here is the "oden" (Japanese hot pot). Initially, steaming daikon, eggs, thick fried tofu, chikuwa (fish cake), shirataki (konjac noodles), and shumai (steamed dumplings) were served. The gentle flavor of the dashi broth soaked into all the ingredients, making each bite irresistibly delicious. The daikon was cooked perfectly, soft and almost melting in the mouth. Furthermore, the octopus legs were briefly simmered in the oden broth for about 15 seconds and served fresh, giving a luxurious dish to enjoy. Alongside the mustard, yuzu pepper was provided as a condiment, and the combination of daikon and yuzu pepper was fantastic, offering new surprises with every bite. Finally, we had "salmon and salmon roe sushi." This sushi, topped with a generous amount of salmon and vibrant roe on a gunkan (battleship) roll, was truly a beautiful dish. Each piece of roe sparkled and burst in the mouth, conveying freshness. The pairing with salmon was excellent, prompting me to finish it in one go. This restaurant also features a rich selection of locally sourced sake from various regions. Particularly notable were several well-known sakes from Niigata, including the crisp and dry "Kubota Senju," the incredibly smooth "Jozen Mizunotai," and the slightly sweet "Koshino Kanbai." Each sake complemented the dishes beautifully, creating an exquisite pairing experience. Overall, the quality of the food, the atmosphere of the restaurant, and the level of service contributed to an exceptionally satisfying dining experience. I look forward to visiting again and trying out more dishes and drinks.

I visited because there was an all-you-can-drink option. I thought we could choose between all-you-can-eat oden and a regular one, but it turned out to be only all-you-can-eat. My first impression was that the oden was small! The fried tofu was about 2.5 cm in length and width. A friend of mine was trying to eat the radish, but it was so hard that they couldn't even stab it with chopsticks. The yakitori had no flavor of chicken skin; it was cooked with salt, but it tasted completely bland, so I ended up adding soy sauce. I was attracted by the all-you-can-drink offer, but the highball was too weak, which was disappointing. It was so noisy that we couldn’t have a conversation, so we left after about an hour.

I visited an izakaya in Kokuraminami, Fukuoka Prefecture. **Robata and Oden Koronagira Kokura Station Front Store** Located near Kokura Station in Kitakyushu City, this izakaya specializes in robata grilled dishes and oden. The name "Koronagira" is pronounced as "koronagirai." A unique feature of the restaurant is the oden counter in one corner, where the "appetizer" (¥500) allows for unlimited oden, making it a free-for-all for anyone to enjoy. Near the entrance, there’s an oden counter designed to resemble a street stall, where you can watch the ingredients simmering in the broth and choose your favorites. There are also semi-private seating areas for groups. The atmosphere felt lively with many young patrons around. Orders are placed using a mobile ordering system. After sitting down and contemplating my choices, the appetizer, a mix of oden, was served. The initial assortment included daikon, shirataki, chikuwa, egg, konnyaku, and deep-fried tofu. I started enjoying the oden with a drink. The chikuwa was delightful; its gentle flavor had absorbed the dashi beautifully, allowing me to savor the ingredients' natural tastes. There was also spicy mustard available on the table, which could be added according to personal preference. Once I finished the first selection of oden, I could order more. I was able to specifically select my refills, and I learned that the top three popular options were shumai, octopus legs, and daikon. For my second round of oden, I selected hanpen (fish cake), satsuma-age (fried fish cake), daikon, chikuwa, and shumai. They even added more broth, so I could enjoy the oden warm. The sizable shumai had a satisfying meatiness, justifying its popularity. I noticed many customers ordering multiple portions! The chewy satsuma-age was also a personal favorite. The hanpen had a fluffy texture, fully soaking up the dashi flavor, which enhanced the richness of the soup. I also tried some robata grilled dishes: - **Angel Shrimp Skewers**: The dish featured a type of shrimp called "angel shrimp" grilled to a perfect char. It's recommended to eat it whole, shell and all. The shrimp was beautifully grilled with a crisp texture, and the more you chewed, the sweeter it tasted. The head was especially crispy, allowing for a taste of the delicious shrimp paste. - **Grilled Chicken Skewers (five types)**: This platter included skin, small gizzards, neck, heart, and thigh, all seasoned with salt and served hot off the grill. The thigh was tender and juicy, the skin was plump and fulfilling, and the neck provided a nice texture that showcased the flavor of the chicken. The salty seasoning paired perfectly with drinks. - **Fatty Saba (Mackerel)**: This was a half fillet of mackerel salt-grilled, which felt rather generous for one person. As I picked at the flesh with my chopsticks, I quickly noticed the rich fat content. The fatty salted mackerel was exquisite, melting in the mouth, making it a real indulgence to finish an entire half fillet by myself! - **Snow Crab and Sea Urchin Jewel Sushi**: This dish consisted of snow crab meat and generous portions of sea urchin on a delicate roll. Combining the light vinegar rice with the crab and sea urchin made for a delightful experience. I poured soy sauce over the sea urchin and enjoyed it alongside the crab on the rice, creating a delectable bite. The crab’s flavor shone bright, enhanced by the creamy sea urchin, culminating in a fantastic sushi experience. With unlimited oden included, this izakaya is perfect for oden lovers. The menu items are reasonably priced, making it an excellent spot for group gatherings and drinking parties.