For dinner, we decided to head to Shinjuku, known as the "Times Square of Tokyo" because of the brightly colored lights on all of the buildings, advertising everything and anything. But this was no Times Square. You really can't get lost in Times Square because, well, it's just a small square. But we exited the Shinjuku metro station at the wrong place (relative to the restaurant we sought) and discovered that Shinjuku's lights and activity cover an area about 1000 times bigger than Times Square with lights that are 1000 times brighter! And people were streaming everywhere, mostly young people. Where were they all going???
We knew our restaurant, a tempura spot recommended in our guidebook, was next to the Mitsukoshi department store. So we started asking people where that supposed landmark could be found. Everyone was very helpful, but I think we did a huge circle before honing in on the correct spot. The entire walk was extremely stimulating! Lights, Lights, Lights! Action, Action, Action! But by the time we arrived at the restaurant, Livia was totally pooped. And there was a line to get in (a good sign in terms of food quality, but hard when you're ready to fall asleep!). As we waited, I held my arms under Liv's arms, and she fell asleep standing up. I didn't think that was possible! By the time we got seated, Liv was solidly asleep. Scott had to carry her upstairs to our tatami room table. But at least she could sleep on the
floor! Our tempura included eel, which Tor said he wouldn't eat but then... tada... he bravely did!
Very funny! I still remember a tempura bar Mom, Dad & I went to. I think it was in Kyoto. There was a counter where you sat (kind of like in a diner) but no tables. There was a chef behind the counter who served you your food. He only spoke one word of English. As he wiped the counter he'd say, "Oh sanitation, sanitation, sanitation!" I honestly don't think I will ever forget that!
ReplyDeleteSo was the food good? You didn't say.