Konohana translates as “flowering trees” and there is probably no better metaphor for the delicacies you’ll find on the menu at this traditional Japanese restaurant. Konohana overlooks a beautiful Japanese garden and, when you visit, you’ll feel like a VIP who has been escorted to some ancient temple in Kyoto. The garden and the presentation of the food complement the fresh and delicate seasonal ingredients you’ll find in each dish. The restaurant naturally offers a delectable range of authentic, Japanese cuisine. The name of the course we had the pleasure of trying was “Saizen,” meaning “colorful dishes.” It was…
Author: Seasider
Sparta is Japan’s first and oldest Greek restaurant—it’s also probably one of its best. Founded by Elias Skantos in 1953, it’s now run by his disciple Akutsu Yasuyuki (the chef) and his wife Yoko (a wine sommelier). Together, the two travel to Greece yearly to update their knowledge of the cuisine. Sparta may seem casual, but the range of food, the quality, the wine and the price make it quite a winning restaurant. There are three dinner course options that hungry patrons will want to consider: the Olympia (¥3400), Athens (¥4000) and Sparta (¥6000). They all include hors d’oeuvres, salad/bread/soup,…
Birthplace: Shin-Yamashita Born: 1958 “The same year as Tokyo Tower, the same day as Donald Duck” Father is American, but went to Japanese schools all his life—”I prefer speaking Japanese.” Currently in his third year as owner of the pub-restaurant Miracle Shôkai. Before that, worked for ten years as a carpenter. 30 years ago, was the first manager of “bar bar bar” in Kannai. “That’s where I learned this line of work.” Plusses of the job: I get to talk to all kinds of people Best item on the menu: whatever uses our fresh vegetables of the day Hobbies: Aikido…