Sushi no Kura, located in the basement of a mixed-use building in Sapporo's Odori area, is a reservation-only sushi restaurant known only to those in the know. The experience begins with a heavy sense of secrecy that seems to test the resolve of first-time visitors.■ The Challenge of Finding the Place and the Space Beyond the Stark DoorEven after confirming the building name and descending to the basement, there are no signs to guide you, and the phone line is disconnected, which may leave first-time visitors feeling a bit perplexed. Along with other reservation guests, we relied on information to locate a plain brown door with no signage. Summoning the courage to open that door leads you to the restaurant's entrance.Inside, the dimly lit space features only five counter seats. The owner manages everything from preparation to service single-handedly with impressive efficiency.■ Course of 9 Appetizers and 10 NigiriThe course consists of 9 appetizers and 10 pieces of nigiri. Each dish showcases unique creativity, reflecting the care taken in preparation and the quality of ingredients as they are served one by one.However, there were a few points of concern. Firstly, regarding the serving dishes for the appetizers, there were instances where lightweight wooden dishes were used alongside ceramic and glassware, which somewhat detracted from the delicate nature of the cuisine.Additionally, the owner remained focused on his work throughout the meal, with minimal communication with guests about the dishes or their appeal. This somewhat mechanical, craftsman-like demeanor made it difficult to fully appreciate the warmth and background of the intricate dishes. While the names of the fish were provided, the origins were not mentioned, leaving a sense of missing luxury.■ DrinksThe drink options were limited to bottled beer, wine, and Japanese sake. As I am not fond of wine or sake, I switched to tea after the beer.Conclusion: A Place Where Preferences for Attention to Detail and Service Style May DifferThe difficulty of the approach, the strictly silent one-person operation, and the choice of serving dishes are elements that may greatly divide opinions. This restaurant is suitable for those who wish to engage with the dishes served in silence, but those looking for warmth in service and a special atmosphere may feel a bit of a disconnect.
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