RK
- With the opening of the Namboku Line in September 2000, a station was established, relinquishing its status as a landlocked island. In December of the same year, the Oedo Line also opened, making Azabu-Juban a more accessible and familiar town from various parts of Tokyo. Originally known only to locals, there were hidden dining spots scattered around the area, but with the improved access due to the subway opening and the proliferation of the restaurant search pioneer "Gurunavi" in the same year, followed by the birth of Tabelog five years later, these so-called "hidden gems" became easily known to everyone, leading many hidden gem establishments to transform into more mainstream restaurants.
- "Teppanyaki acalli" opened its doors in November 2005, coincidentally the same year Tabelog was born. Located about 500 meters south of the bustling dining area of Azabu-Juban, near the base of "Sannohashi." Being quite a distance from the main commercial area, it offers a peaceful environment. Even after seven years since its opening, hidden gem restaurants are still maintained in this area.
- The restaurant is situated on the second floor of a small three-story building, with a Japanese restaurant "Araki" run by the owner's older brother on the first floor (which is also quite delicious).
- The interior consists of four tables for four people each near the entrance, and a counter with six seats towards the back.
- The building faces a narrow alley running parallel to the Metropolitan Expressway Meguro Line, where both vehicle and pedestrian traffic is minimal, creating a calm atmosphere. The entrance to the restaurant is located next to the first-floor shop, and although accessed by a narrow staircase, the presence of the restaurant sign and menu facing the street makes it easy to find.
- The view from the inside of the restaurant overlooks the outside scenery. Despite the unattractive view of the polluted Furukawa River and the bleak buildings across the river, the owner's ingenuity is evident. By installing a long horizontal glass window at a height of about 50cm at the eye level of customers sitting at the counter, it restricts the view of the undesirable highway, hides the buildings across the river at a distant perspective, and creates a sense of depth by adding greenery right outside the window, giving an illusion of depth perception.
- The clientele mainly consists of locals, with a few couples using it for dates. Unfortunately, there are fewer foreigners in the area, likely due to the distance from the station, but overall, the customer base is decent.
- In the vicinity, there are few second locations or affordable parks to enhance the atmosphere with a date. The nearest Arisugawa Park unfortunately closes at 9:00 pm (5:30 pm on weekends and holidays), and heading to Shiba Park aiming for Tokyo Tower is a straightforward and less creative option. A more affordable and lively spot within a 20-minute walk is the pedestrian bridge at "Fudanotsuji Intersection." From here, looking north, you can enjoy a splendid night view of Tokyo Tower, far more beautiful than that of the Skytree. Moreover, the effects of the garlic rice you just enjoyed will kick in just right, making it a perfect time to check into a nearby hotel (with a couple's plan including breakfast starting at 7,900 yen for two).
- The owner is very sociable. Depending on how busy the restaurant is, striking up a conversation when it's not crowded can lead to the owner talking so much that they neglect the cooking (making you nervous about the meat and vegetables burning). Is this considered service?