A two-year gap in posting past logs.Nestled in a quiet alley in front of Ito Station, Ichi Unagi is a renowned eel restaurant. While the founding year and the chef's background are not publicly disclosed, it operates with just nine counter seats and has been recognized as one of the top eel restaurants in Japan, even receiving accolades from Tabelog.What sets it apart is the meticulous preparation of the eel, which is filleted and grilled only after an order is placed. The result is a perfectly crispy exterior and a fluffy interior, showcasing a unique grilling technique. Instead of the usual sansho pepper, the restaurant pairs the eel with real wasabi, reflecting the chef's desire for diners to truly enjoy the natural flavors of the eel.The menu is straightforward, focusing primarily on eel rice bowls and grilled eel, creating a refined dining experience. In contrast to the large tourist-oriented establishments, this specialty shop exudes an atmosphere where a single craftsman dedicates himself to the art of eel preparation. It stands as a compelling reason to visit Ito, distinct from the seafood and dried fish offerings of Ito Onsen.I enjoyed the eel for my birthday.It was a great meal.