25 Comments
User's avatar
Annelise's avatar

You captured this moment so beautifully. I felt like I was sitting in the restaurant with you.

What an incredible experience. Japan is a special place for me, I’ve been there a three times now and always have a pull to go back for moments like these.

Tales on the Table's avatar

Thank you so much, Annelise! It means a lot that you enjoyed reading it.

Japan is indeed a very special place.

Thanks again!

Michal Zámečník's avatar

I like your article and experience. I hope you get even more of them! What is the meal on last photo, please?

Tales on the Table's avatar

Thank you!

It was the final dessert course, a matcha tiramissu if I recall correctly.

Michal Zámečník's avatar

I never heard of this combo. It looks tasty

Tales on the Table's avatar

It was new for me as well!

Urvashi Roe's avatar

Aaah you’re making me miss Japan. I don’t eat meat but this story evokes so many memories of walking in Kichijoji Koen passing the yakitori vendors with the smells of grilled meats wafting over my head. I never mind the smell of meat on charcoal and that smell for me now embodies those walks after work.

Tales on the Table's avatar

Thank you so much, Urvashi!

That is very kind and it means a lot.

I miss Japan already as well!

Elaine's avatar

I was right there with you! Wow

Tales on the Table's avatar

Thank you Elaine. Really glad you enjoyed it : )

Carolina Pires's avatar

Que texto bom. Eu senti a textura como se tivesse comido a carne. É legal demais saber das pessoas por trás da experiência gastronômica

Tales on the Table's avatar

Que bom que gostou!! Fico feliz!

Obrigado, Carol.

Thomas J.A. Watson's avatar

Love the way you describe the food! Makes me want to pay a visit next time I'm in Kyoto.

Tales on the Table's avatar

Thank you! You definitely should, if you ever get the chance. The food is excellent, and the people behind the counter are truly special.

Giorgia Lardner's avatar

How beautifully written, I feel absolutely immersed

Tales on the Table's avatar

Thank you, Giorgia! That means a lot, really appreciate it.

Simon Davey's avatar

Nicely written, felt like I was there too. I could smell the aged beef and feel the flame on my face while I waited my turn on the translator app.. nice one!

Tales on the Table's avatar

Thank you so much, Simon! That means a lot.

Julie Factor's avatar

What a beautiful write-up. Having wandered through Osaka and Kyoto myself, I felt this deeply. The language barrier in Japan can feel incredibly daunting, but the warmth and hospitality you find around the food completely breaks through that wall.

It’s so easy to get overwhelmed by the crowds in Kyoto or get stuck trying to find the "perfect" untouristed spot. But some of the best memories come from these exact, unexpected relationships forged over a counter. Thank you for sharing such a wonderful, human story- it reminds me why I go back often.

Tales on the Table's avatar

Thank you Julie for your thoughtful comment! Indeed, human relationships made over a meal are a beautiful thing and a big reason why I love to travel the world.

Thanks again!

Fabio Ferraz's avatar

I could almost taste it while reading!

Tales on the Table's avatar

Thank you!! Really glad you enjoyed it : )

Stamps of Suzi's avatar

My mouth is literally salivating... I need to go there! You described it so well, I feel as if I was there too. Great post!

Tales on the Table's avatar

Thank you so much!

User's avatar
Comment deleted
Jun 17
Comment deleted