I visited Takajo Kotobuki in Asakusa with a group of six on a weekday evening.This restaurant does not accept reservations from newcomers, so I was finally able to visit thanks to a friend who has been a long-time patron.Even before entering, there was an atmosphere that suggested this was no ordinary place.We enjoyed five different types of duck, sourced from three birds.Currently, they use frozen duck meat, but according to the owner, from November 15 to February 15, during the hunting season, they serve fresh duck.However, with today’s advanced freezing technology, I honestly didn’t feel that the frozen meat was inferior at all.Some might associate duck with a strong flavor or toughness, but this was completely different.The tender cuts, the enjoyable textures, the bouncy mouthfeel, and the smoky aroma from the cooking method all varied greatly by cut and preparation, leaving me amazed at how much character can be created with just duck.The precision in cooking was particularly impressive.They allow you to bring your own wine without a corkage fee, so we brought some along.I believe that the experience of such a restaurant includes what you drink as well.It would be a lot of fun for wine enthusiasts to visit together.The finishing dish, the chicken rice, was also incredibly delicious, making for a highly satisfying course until the very end.Moreover, the ningyo-yaki (doll-shaped cakes) we received as a souvenir were delightful, adding to the overall Asakusa experience.There are a few rules at the restaurant:- No photos of the dishes allowed- Wine and champagne can be brought in (no corkage fee)- Payment is cash only, settled in one sum- Dress code is casual (but be aware that the smell will cling to your clothes)Including these rules, it gave off the impression of a restaurant that upholds a culture close to being by referral only.Overall:- The exclusivity of not accepting new reservations adds to its charm- It completely changed my perception of duck dishes- The individuality of each cut was fascinating- An ideal environment for wine lovers- A renowned establishment that embodies the traditional culture of AsakusaIt was not just "delicious," but a place that will remain in my memory as an experience.
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