Dinner at OHKUSA (オオクサ)

Dinner at OHKUSA (オオクサ)

at OHKUSA (オオクサ) on 21 July 2026
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This restaurant truly exceeded my expectations.The charming atmosphere of Arakicho had me excited even before entering, and the warm hospitality confirmed that I was in for a treat. The interior features an 8-seat counter, and while reservations are likely hard to come by, I was fortunate to find an opening on the day of my visit and made an immediate reservation. All slots for the following week were already booked, so I felt lucky!The menu consists of a single course priced at JPY 15,000, which includes 8 skewers along with various side dishes served in between.Today’s offerings included Takasaka chicken, Hakata jidori, Shingen chicken, and Mitsuse chicken. It’s impressive to have 4 different types in just 8 skewers!The corn soup, accompanied by chicken consomme, was incredibly delicious with a strong sweetness, making it a perfect start.The peach burrata also enhanced the sweetness remarkably.The Amela tomatoes showcased a dedication to maximizing the flavor of the tomatoes.The fresh spring rolls featured excellent rice paper, and the rolling technique was very meticulous.The Takasaka chicken risotto was astonishingly good, with a raw egg yolk on top that added an otherworldly touch.The chicken breast was cooked to perfection, allowing for a delightful combination of tenderness and firmness.The heart was by far the best I’ve ever had.The thigh and leg meat were a true testament to craftsmanship, with a crispy skin and a rare, juicy interior that is a must-try. The cooking technique was exceptional.The neck had a punchy saltiness and a pleasant texture that paired wonderfully with the fat.The liver was plump and completely free of any unpleasant odor.The thigh was large and at the highest level I’ve experienced, with perfect cooking that offered a variety of textures.The chicken wings were impressively large, with a different flavor profile compared to other parts, leaning towards a rich, fatty taste.The kidneys were a first-time experience for me.This was the lineup. I was certainly satisfied, if not nearly full.The drink selection was extensive, featuring wine, Japanese sake, whiskey, beer, sparkling, and shochu, all presumably well-paired with chicken. I opted for gin-based drinks, which I usually don’t order, and they were refreshingly dry and delicious. The drinks were not sweet and had a nice spice, perfectly matching the meal.Everyone was incredibly attentive, and I felt no stress at all; the 2.5 hours flew by.I definitely want to return to this place.

9 / 10