中目のやっこさん
Nestled quietly in the back alleys of Kagurazaka, you'll find "Konbuya." It's a cozy spot for enjoying oden and Japanese cuisine in a calm atmosphere. This restaurant is part of the dining brand operated by Comeal Inc., with other locations in Nishi-Azabu and Ebisu. The group also includes Sekiya Spaghetti and the Japanese izakaya Honoji. Located about a 5-minute walk from Iidabashi Station B3 exit, up Kagurazaka and into a dimly lit narrow alley. The storefront is adorned with a cotton noren curtain, exuding a traditional Japanese ambiance while providing a well-lit space. In addition to the counter and tables, there is a semi-private tatami table seating area in the back, creating an elegant yet cozy atmosphere. The highlight of this restaurant is definitely the oden. They take pride in their oden, made with Rausu kelp and ingredients that bring out the natural flavors, using only a hint of salt without any soy sauce. They offer over 30 varieties of oden, including seasonal specials that change monthly. Each ingredient is prepared differently depending on the material, emphasizing the compatibility and balance with the broth. On this particular day, I had reserved a course menu. Here's what I enjoyed: "Limited-time Bungetsu Kaiseki Course for 6,000 yen" - Appetizer: Karasumi and wasabi greens mustard salad - Assorted appetizers: Salmon sushi with cherry blossoms, bamboo shoot wrapped chicken, lotus root tempura - Sashimi: Bluefin tuna, halibut, red snapper - Oden: Assorted 6 varieties of homemade oden with Rausu kelp broth - Grilled dish: Oyama chicken with salt koji - Fried dish: Ankimo lotus root sandwich tempura - Rice dish: Inaniwa udon with oden broth - Dessert: White chocolate warabi mochi - Drinks: Draft beer, highball, wine, etc., about 3-4 drinks per person. With the course meal and a good amount of drinks, the total cost per person was around 10,000 yen, which is a great value for Kagurazaka. The ambiance is serene and warm, offering a comfortable and inviting space. The menu features a well-rounded lineup, with delicious sashimi and hearty dishes like the savory salt koji grilled Oyama chicken and the ankimo lotus root tempura. The highlight, the oden, with its deep flavor and richness from Rausu kelp broth, paired perfectly with the large ingredients, enhancing their natural taste. The meal ended on a satisfying note with Inaniwa udon in the flavorful oden broth. The well-balanced dishes and cozy atmosphere made for a delightful dining experience, and the lively conversation flowed effortlessly. The most charming seats are the two box sofa seats in the center. Reservations are a must, and these seats are sure to impress, especially with female guests. If you know of a chic oden restaurant like this, your stock will surely rise.