Unagi Tei Tomoe in OdawaraA renowned restaurant for blue eel.This is my second visit.I reserved eel over the phone, and they seat you in the order of arrival.I got off at Fumizaki Station on the Odakyu Line and arrived around 12:30.After waiting for about an hour and a half, I was finally seated.The restaurant still has its charming appearance, with ochre walls and a gabled roof.As I pass through the noren (curtain), a different world begins.Unable to wait for the eel, I started with some delicacies and Japanese sake.I ordered uruka, konowata, and karasumi, along with eel's salted guts.I may have ordered a bit too much...For sake, I had Yamano Katsu.It has a floral aroma and a refreshing taste with a transparent umami flavor.Then I tried Atago no Matsu, which is rich and dry with a nice finish.Now, onto the main event: Unaju (grilled eel over rice).It’s opened from the back.The eel is fluffy and moist, bursting with rich juices.It's hard to put into words, but the different parts of the eel have unique flavors, which is what makes eel so interesting.The thickest part, slightly closer to the head, is creamy and juicy, almost drinkable like milk.What an incredible impact!Near the tail, the balance of concentrated umami and smokiness is wonderful, making me reach for more sake.The sansho pepper is vibrant and has a fresh aroma, with a mild numbing sensation.Each bite was a delight, and I truly enjoyed this happy moment.Even though it was my second visit, I experienced the same excitement as the first time.Last time was in December, and this time in August.Though the seasons are different, both eels were well-fed.So far, Unagi Tei Tomoe's eel is my best.Although it was sold out this time, I definitely want to try the freshly prepared liver!I will absolutely come again.It was a great meal!