y.kiwi
I met up with a friend from afar in Asakusa and had lunch here. It was a holiday, so both this restaurant and others nearby were crowded, with a decent line outside. Since I couldn't make a reservation in advance and wanted to eat eel, I chose this place for the following reasons:
- Prompt service: Despite being busy without reservations, this eel restaurant was quick in serving, had a second floor, and a decently sized dining area, making the turnover fast even with a line outside. Suitable for those with limited time.
- Reasonable prices: Known for offering eel at a relatively affordable price in the Asakusa area.
- Spacious, bright, and clean interior for a relaxing atmosphere: The restaurant was rebuilt in 2013, making it bright and clean.
This restaurant, established in 1926, is a long-standing establishment of 97 years. However, there is another famous restaurant nearby that has been around for 162 years (since the first year of Bun'kyū era), which is now open only for lunch, with the landlady standing at the grill. The head chef, who used to beat a fan rhythmically with his hand while grilling, is fondly remembered.
We started with eel sashimi, eel rolls, and beer. The dishes came out quickly, almost like fast-forwarding through a traditional eel restaurant experience. We had the largest eel bowl, "Matsu," for 3,520 yen, which I believe offers the best quality for its price compared to other eel restaurants nearby. Please see the photos with captions for what we had that day.
After enjoying our meal with drinks and eel, we spent about 40 minutes, or maybe just 30 minutes, before leaving the restaurant. The rhythmic and lively atmosphere is part of what makes this place charming. Thank you for the meal.
Memo:
- Eel Bowl (Matsu): 3,520 yen
- Eel Rolls: 1,320 yen
- Eel Sashimi: 1,320 yen
- Nameko Miso Soup: 220 yen
- Ebisu New Origin Limited Edition Bottle: 880 yen x 2
- Cash only
- Very fast service, perfect for those in a hurry.