While we were a bit sad to leave Kyoto, which is one of Missus's favorite cities. We were excited to be back in Tokyo.
Beyond the rather overwhelming, sensory overload of the city; we loved the various neighborhoods, the order, the streets packed with wonderful surprises at every turn. We'd gotten used to the rhythm of this city of over 13 million people.
The Missus had gotten really fond of the Yotsuya neighborhood, which is where we decided to stay on our return to Tokyo. There's something less touristy and more "real" about this neighborhood; at least to us. And while we have yet to find Hattori Hanzo's (the real one) grave or have yet to see obake in the neighborhood, we love walking the back streets and exploring.
Plus, the view from our hotel wasn't too shabby at all.
Another reason for staying in the neighborhood; is that our favorite restaurant, perhaps in the world, resides down one of the narrow streets of Arakicho. Yes, even after visiting Osteria Francescana on our recent trip to Italy; or Azurmendi, Disfrutar, David Toutain, Alliance (post coming up), or any number of other places, even from my pre-blogging days (The French Laundry/Gary Danko, etc). Suzunari remains our favorite.
Honest, seasonal, perfectly prepared Kaiseki for non-tourists......it just resonates with us. Business must be good, Chef Murata now has two assistants. And like our previous meal; our good friend Reiko joined us. Once we told her we'd be returning to Tokyo and Suzunari, she was quite excited, and rightfully so.
I'll spare you the 10,000 words here; since I've posted on this place several times before.
From the stuffed sakura leaves to the Hassun….everything tasted as good as....and even better than, it looked.
The Missus still calls the simple, broiled rockfish (kinki) we had on this evening, the most perfect fish in terms of texture She has ever had.
I loved the abalone on bamboo shoots....and the abalone liver even more!
Reiko is allergic to shellfish and some forms of seafood; so instead of the usual kamameshi; they made us a version with takenoko (bamboo shoots), and provided lovely, savory dried shrimp for the Missus and I.
There's something about this place that just resonates with us.
We gotta get back to Japan (and Suzunari) again soon.
Suzunari
7-9 Arakicho, Shinjuku-ku
Tokyo
Returning to the room; I opened a "cold one".
And looked off into the night......
Thinking about how blessed we are to able to travel as much as we do.....and to be able to say; "yes, our favorite restaurant is in Tokyo."
Thanks for stopping by!
Tokyo looks lovely at night!
Posted by: Soo | Thursday, 12 July 2018 at 09:09 AM
Everything looks good! Never been to that part of Tokyo.
Posted by: Junichi | Thursday, 12 July 2018 at 09:59 AM
nice!
Posted by: kat | Thursday, 12 July 2018 at 04:59 PM
It sure does Soo!
For some reason; we really enjoy Yotsuya Junichi....it seems less hectic.
It was Kat!
Posted by: Kirk | Thursday, 12 July 2018 at 07:20 PM
One day I will visit Japan and go home fat and happy.
Posted by: Nhbilly | Thursday, 12 July 2018 at 09:12 PM
I hope you get to visit soon Billy!
Posted by: Kirk | Friday, 13 July 2018 at 06:55 AM
I was lucky enough to make it to Tokyo last December and I've been plotting to go back ever since.
Posted by: janfrederick | Friday, 13 July 2018 at 12:55 PM
I hope you manage to get back soon Jan! Tokyo and Japan is a great place to visit.
Posted by: Kirk | Saturday, 14 July 2018 at 05:07 PM