Sawaraya — Restaurant in Kurashiki

Yeah nah I’m so done with restaurants sneakily plonking down an “appetiser” of actually extremely unappetising fried fish in vinegar and then charging for it. And this was the final (smoked, no less!) straw because it cost 600¥ here — beyond the high end of what otoshi would typically cost at 300-500¥.

That’s so sneaky and it’s unjustifiable that it’s not mentioned anywhere on the menu. It’s only right you give the patron the option to refuse it, or tell us upfront there’s a cover charge of 600¥ so we can make an educated decision coming here. I’d definitely rather be spared of the terrible sour fish you’re starting off my meal with.

So, for the tourists: the moment you step in here for dinner you’re already a minimum of 1200¥ poorer because of “/plonk/ appetiser 🎶” and the compulsory drink you have to order — and frankly, my grapefruit sour tasted like it came out of a Kirin can. I asked how it was made because there was literally zero grapefruit presence in it, and they weren’t able to respond.

Having said that, the smoked sawara was in fact truly delicious. Kamameshi is nothing special imo and the mackerel in it turns out very overcooked.

Service: The younger waitress did nothing to explain the kamameshi so you’re on your own. Also, sanitising solution was sprayed on the table while my drink was right next to it.

To Sawaraya: at the very least, do better in communicating otherwise you’re basically intentionally ripping unwitting tourists off. With this as my last dinner in Kurashiki, that’s what you left me with....

I now understand why this restaurant is fully reserved on both days I was in Kurashiki. Service was so attentive & considerate & food was fresh & generous!

The male server kindly offered half portions since I was solo dining. I was so happy that I was able to try a bigger variety.

The portions are so generous even for half portion! Couple beside me had the same comment for their full portion. Come in a group to enjoy!

When the female chef noticed I had some difficulties finishing the food, she came over to ask if everything was ok & we started talking.

Eventually I packed the smoked sawara, and the chef thought it was better he fully cooks it for me due to food safety considerations. The female server also asked if I needed chopsticks, which I forgot that I needed that.

They go out of the way to make sure each customer has a good time. Plus thick cuts of sawara, the only thing is if you can get a seat here without...

The lady who looked after us was so charming, speaking some English, supplemented with Google Translate.

She advised us how much to order, recommended dishes, and advised us how to eat the various dishes.

Everything was freshly prepared and delicious.

Although this is a restaurant, the level of hospitality felt as if we were in someones home.

We were well fed, and well looked after.

I don't review many places, but I highly recommend...