【Kushi Katsu A-bon】Located about a 10-minute walk from Ashiya Station in Hyogo.Average budget: JPY 15,000 - 19,999Tabelog rating: 4.37 (as of the time of posting)Tabelog Awards Bronze in 2017, 2018, 2023, and 2024.Tabelog Awards Silver from 2019 to 2022, and in 2025 and 2026.Michelin One Star (in the past)After enjoying lunch at Kitanozaka with Mr. Tsutomu Hasegawa, I headed to "Kushi Katsu A-bon" for dinner in Ashiya City, Hyogo Prefecture.Once again, I was fortunate to be invited to a precious seat.This restaurant has earned a Michelin One Star and is ranked number one in the Kushi Katsu category on Tabelog.It is famously known as the **most difficult Kushi Katsu restaurant to book in Japan**.The head chef is Mr. Tsutomu Hasegawa, and the executive chef is Mr. Tsuyoshi Nakamura.Dinner is served in two sessions, starting at 18:00 or 20:30, featuring an omakase course of about 20 skewers.On this occasion, I was lucky to sit right in front of Chef Hasegawa at the 18:00 session, enjoying the unique Kushi Katsu that A-bon offers.The moment I took a bite, I was amazed by its lightness (゜_゜;)The secret lies in the quality of the oil and Chef Hasegawa's skilled technique.He uses Dutch lard, which he claims is **the best oil in the world**.It was so light that it didn’t feel like lard at all, and the refined taste was impressive without any off-flavors!♪Moreover, during their two daily service rotations, all frying oil is replaced with fresh oil after the first session.This commitment ensures that every customer can enjoy Kushi Katsu in its best condition, a dedication that has remained unchanged since the restaurant's founding!With the exquisite oil and Chef Hasegawa's exceptional frying technique, the Kushi Katsu is so light that you forget about the batter itself★☆I truly felt that this was a one-of-a-kind Kushi Katsu that brings out the deliciousness of the ingredients to the fullest, something you can only experience at A-bon!Additionally, the warm smiles and attentive service from Chef Hasegawa, Chef Nakamura, and all the staff made for a wonderful experience, allowing me to enjoy a pleasant time throughout.I am grateful to have shared this precious seat once again!It was a great meal.◆Omakase Course◇Approximately 20 skewers served, with tea soba and dessert included.JPY 9,500, tax included.◆Add-ons◇- Oolong tea- 3 additional skewers*On the day, a total of 25 skewers were served.
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