Hidaka — Restaurant in Ibusuki

The woman staff/manager/boss did not smile, talked rigidly, and made us feel very unwelcome. We sat down for a while and no water was offered. When we made the order, she stood behind our back and stared at us as if very impatient. One of the food we ordered was sold out and she went to confirm with the chef and realised she forgot to deliver the appetiser. We ended up have to ask for the water. In the midst of our order, she also interrupted by saying “That’s enough.” As if we are not allowed to order the amount of food we want.

What we ordered included some cold appetiser. Waited for 45mins without any service (take away finished dishes, adding water), nothing. The appetisers finally came along with the main dish, so all of a sudden we went from starving to death to having six dishes to swallow at once.

The food was actually great, but because of the time management, it was not pleasant for our stomach.

After finishing the food, I went to the bathroom. As usual, she stared at me in silence as if there’s a problem with me going to the bathroom, so I asked for the bill to avoid the awkwardness.

This is the only restaurant that did not accept card among so many times and areas I have been to Japan, but is probably not surprising for people as unfriendly as her.

Will definitely not come again because of this...

Soooo delicious. What a delightful experience! All ingredients were fresh and local. The white asparagus/bamboo was in the season. It was sweet and aromatic. Sea bream was salt grilled. It was heavenly. Grilled chicken was crunchy outside and tender and moist inside. Very flavourable. We also had charcoal grilled wagyu and salt grilled prawns. Everything was divine. And, love its charamushi, vege miso soup and tempura. We had a very satisfying meal. Sooo good. Thank you....

It was a hidden gem along the dark streets of Ibusuki. If you’re in town for the sand bath, make the most out of the trip by heading here for a meal.

Everything is well done and the 土瓶蒸し (dobin mushi) is really exquisite, order the one with matsutake mushroom. I’m glad I visited this restaurant, like the lady boss said - good choice. She speaks good English as well, was hoping to chat more but I had to catch the train back...