Behind the Counter: Exploring a Traditional Japanese Unagi Restaurant

🍽️Discover the culinary techniques of a traditional Japanese unagi eel restaurant, passed down through five generations.

🔥Experience the meticulous process of grilling the unagi over charcoal and dipping it in a signature sauce.

🐟Learn about the special kosui unagi, known for its uniquely sweet aroma and higher DHA and EPA content.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Understand the challenges of preserving a family legacy, as the owner continues the restaurant's success.

🍶Explore the owner's passion for sake and his recommendation for a delicious, high-quality Sakura-inspired sake.

How long has the restaurant been in operation?

—The restaurant has been operating for over 149 years, passed down through five generations.

What makes the unagi dish unique?

—The unagi dish is unique due to the special kosui unagi used, known for its sweet aroma and higher DHA and EPA content.

What is the grilling process for the unagi?

—The unagi is first steamed, then dipped in a signature sauce, and finally grilled over charcoal, resulting in a slightly crispy outer layer and tender, flavorful meat.

What challenges does the owner face in preserving the family legacy?

—The owner faces the challenge of maintaining a consistent taste while effectively managing the restaurant and its workers, requiring a lifelong dedication to learning and improvement.

What sake does the owner recommend?

—The owner recommends trying a Sakura-inspired sake, which pairs perfectly with the unagi dish.

00:00Introduction to a local Japanese unagi eel restaurant and the plan to take you behind the counter.

02:53The history of the restaurant, passed down through five generations, and its dedication to preserving culinary techniques.

08:28Explanation of the special kosui unagi used in the restaurant, known for its sweet aroma and higher DHA and EPA content.

10:58Insight into the challenges faced by the owner in preserving the family legacy and maintaining consistent taste.

12:48Introduction to the Okami, the wife of the owner, and her role in ensuring a delightful experience for customers.

15:41The final process of grilling the unagi, including dipping it in a signature sauce and achieving a glossy coating.

16:39The owner's passion for sake and his recommendation for a delicious, high-quality Sakura-inspired sake.