お猿と狸
Dad is a newcomer to Asahikawa, so I decided to delve into a bit of history. The popular entertainment district in Asahikawa, Sanroku, used to have a venue called Kagekikai Hall, which closed down a few years ago. Established in 1907, the company operated under the name "Kagekikai Hall," specializing in venue management for banquets, weddings, and ceremonies, as well as running restaurants. With a long history in the industry, the company was well-known in the community. However, in November 2017, the company went bankrupt and the court ordered bankruptcy proceedings. Recently, a local construction-related company successfully reopened the venue. The building has been renovated with a chic entrance and a large curtain. Upon entering, guests are greeted with a spacious entrance and beautiful flowers to celebrate the reopening. The first floor features a tempura counter, a bar counter, and different sections for sushi and tempura. The second floor offers tatami seating, private rooms, and VIP rooms. The menu is on the pricier side but promises high-quality dishes. The reopening has attracted a lot of customers, and the restaurant has been featured in the local newspaper, contributing to the revitalization of Asahikawa. I ordered a tempura bowl, which was served by a waiter with a brief explanation from the chef. The tempura consisted of shrimp, scallops, and white fish, each with its own unique flavor. Despite being smaller and thinner than expected, the tempura was made with high-quality ingredients and was delicious. I accidentally poured the soup over the rice, but it turned out to be a delightful mistake. The rice was cooked perfectly, and the tempura soaked in the soup was a dynamic and satisfying combination. Overall, the meal was elegant and enjoyable, with a sophisticated atmosphere and excellent service.