I was finally able to attend a private reservation event that I was invited to quite some time ago. I can't even remember when it was, but I believe it was over six months ago. At that time, I had no knowledge about this place, but its popularity made me eager to check it out.On the day of the event, it was unfortunately raining, but since it was my first time in the town of Ashiya, I decided to walk to the restaurant. It took about 10 minutes, which was a nice light walk before the meal.I had heard that entry required a passcode, but I was surprised to find that there was no sign outside, and I almost walked past it.When the time came, everyone gathered, and the meal began.There were eight of us for this private event. The chef, working solo, was very efficient, pouring wine and preparing dishes, yet he appeared completely at ease and natural.There was none of the awkwardness that often comes with a one-person operation, and I was able to enjoy a comfortable experience from start to finish.Thank you very much, Chef.On this day, we enjoyed:- Dashi made from the Isaki fish, prepared by Mr. Fujimoto from Ehime- Risotto with dashi and caviar- Fried abalone topped with pecorino- Sea bream from Akashi in kombu dashi- Grilled Isaki with junsai and dashi, prepared in an aqua pazza style- Botan shrimp shabu-shabu with béchamel sauce- Focaccia- Pasta made only with eggs, served tsukemen-style with fish dashi- Hand-cut, 100% beef hamburg steak without fillers- Clay pot rice (cooked al dente)- Rice with dashi and hanakatsu from Makurazaki- Ice cream topped with matchaAlthough the restaurant is named "Italian Ryori," those unfamiliar might mistake it for a Japanese restaurant. The dishes featured a lot of fish dashi made from the Isaki prepared by Mr. Fujimoto, highlighting the umami of the fish. And everything was incredibly delicious!! The fried abalone was a first for me, and the botan shrimp shabu-shabu was a new experience as well. The flavors were slightly on the stronger side, likely to pair well with wine.Since Ashiya is a bit far from my usual haunts, it’s not easy for me to visit often, but if it were closer, I would want to come back regularly. The chef was very personable, making my first visit quite comfortable. I definitely want to return!
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