Behind the Counter at a Traditional Japanese Restaurant

[@PaolofromTOKYO]

tokyozebra.com/btc - Watch more of my Japan Behind the Counter videos www.tokyozebra.com/merch - Help Support the channel via my Toe-Kyo Merch Get 10% off with my link on Squarespace - squarespace.com/paolofromtokyo

[@darrenn141]

Could you make a video of the guys who sell sweet potatoes? Interesting that they do that rather than sell ice cream like other countries.

[@ropro9817]

Daaaaaaaamn, why can't we have nice bento boxes like that for $10 in Americaaaaaaa~~~~~~! 😭 So jealous!

[@janlav653]

Wow! 🤩 The presentation was superb and looks 👀 yummy ! 😋

[@rileydonahue420]

@Carlos Varela Gonzalez fi8o8

[@ryanyoung7433]

I have this place saved in google maps and def will be going there in November!

[@ivanwill]

Mad respect to the manager of that restaurant. Starting a business at 50, simply can't be easy, even more so, starting during a pandemic! Boss!!

[@hansdoreen]

And their bento's only like 7 something dollars, with quality that high I was expecting something like 15-20$.

[@scottibass]

The crew also works super hard but seem in control, which is rare in a kitchen

[@greatleader4841]

I mean it was a smart move. He's 100% right, Business couldn't get any worse so why not start now? The only place you could go is up.

[@dagda3000]

Pretty sure that dude already earned so much money that he would never have to work again. I guess starting this restaurant is just fulfilling a dream for him

[@importanttingwei7747]

please do a video tour of 2 hour walkthrough of Suntory distillery

[@aadriohno]

I genuinely smiled when the kitchen worker found out Paolo had a few things in common with him, it just brought a glimmer to his facial expression

[@fabrizio4190]

ikr it seemed like he wasn't vibin with Paolo but then they talked and it was wholesome asf

[@junsjulywonpilsyonpilchany5241]

True. His entire demeanor changed after their hobby convo. Having similar things you enjoy with the other makes the start of socializing easier.

[@HarRuRuKaaa]

Yeah, it's like he wanted to friend him

[@foxriverpapi]

ong

[@marqbarq5977]

This one is one of your best. The host is so open and friendly. I so want to eat there. Thanks Paolo!

[@PaolofromTOKYO]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Fernwehklicker]

Yap it is. A really special Episode with some handsome people.

[@catherinebond7474]

I agree. If we ever get back to Japan (2024/25? 🤞), I'd definitely look him up.

[@ShaferHart]

I agree. Everyone's personality shone through here even though the video is very short. That's quite a feat Paolo!

[@rbu2136]

I’m looking for a girlfriend. Lol. So cute.

[@aleks-33]

made me tear up to see a boss (and a chef at that!) say his workers are also gods. WIsh this dude immense happiness and success. Also made me teary when he said he's gonna leave the business to his workers not his French Chef son! hahaha. Paolo, this one was amazing!

[@Jordan-inJapan]

My sentiments exactly. 🍻

[@Aeybiseediy]

Notice how he brought his youngest staff to shop for fish in the morning and also treat him to breakfast. I bet he didnt even put him to so much physical labor since the ingredients are delivered directly to the restaurant instead. Not many employers nowadays care abt trivial things like that towards their staff.

[@ShaferHart]

His son does a different type of cuisine so it really doesn't make sense to leave a traditional Japanese restaurant to him.

[@prashantgurung2635]

@@ShaferHart His son is also a chef and why would you leave your business business to the workers rather your son seems like he is not in good terms with his sons

[@pmatq5004]

@@prashantgurung2635 Different styles of cooking. Just because you’re a cook doesn’t mean you’re fluent in every type of cuisine. I guess the owner values perfection of his craft so therefore he doesn’t see his son fit to make traditional Japanese cuisine.

[@Shibafi]

super adorable when the owner smiles at the guy looking for a girlfriend, you can tell they have a great dynamic even outside their roles in the restaurant, genuine care.

[@Oyuki-Mayonesa]

Yes, so cute, and looking like James Dean with that haircut, he will ding a girl in no time :)

[@drix4275]

@@Oyuki-Mayonesa What everyone always thinks; "That cute/nice person probably already has someone." Like when the prettiest girls don't get asked for prom because everyone thinks someone already asked them. You should ask Paolo for the contact details of the Japanese James Dean (Japames Dean :D) and ask him out. :)

[@debarghyabarik9886]

I like your attention to detail.

[@v.d.2738]

Time stamp for that. 16:12

[@DavidJGlad]

@@Oyuki-Mayonesa Nice to believe that, but Japan really is a pioneering country in lifelong bachelors and a glimpse into the future for many other countries. Wish him the best, of course.

[@bigtom7351]

Having been a chef in America for a long time, the way these Japanese shops flow is peaceful to my brain. It’s truly inspiring. I love the content.

[@xymzk]

Yes, the flow is amazing

[@深夜-l9f]

japanese culture is founded on harmony of me and others.

[@glennchua.hianbeng2440]

@@xymzk They never rush the foods out.

[@interruptingcow2418]

Yes. No shouting or arguing lol.

[@juniyananajukyu]

No egos, just working to give the customer the best product. Omotenashii

[@InVerum]

Wow, this restaurant is the absolute embodiment of 'Little things done well'. So much attention to detail compounded resulting what appears to be an absolutely top tier dining experience. Really cool to see restaurants like this profiled.

[@ChauNyan]

This is true fine dining. These restaurants are highly underrated. Foreigners only think Japan is just Sushi, but there's a huge selection of cooked delicacy such as eel, te tempura, dumplings, rice bowl, etc.

[@v.d.2738]

@@ChauNyan I like that Paolo mentioned the dashi (broth or soup stock) at 6:40, which is a core part of Japanese cuisine. Ramen has inherited this culture. It puts huge importance on its broth/soup.

[@rosm9601]

These guys are hilarious! Especially the dude who says he's on the lookout for a girlfriend! 😂 I will definitely have to visit next year. I agree with one of the commenters - you can feel the energetic vibe with the team!

[@DavidJGlad]

It's smart to say. Having worked in a kitchen myself though, lot of cooks are divorced. Probably due in part to the demands (namely odd hours) of the work.

[@rosm9601]

@@DavidJGlad he's definitely not the shy and retiring stereotypical Japanese though! I guess if you don't ask, you don't get.

[@retro527]

He’s really cute too haha 😛

[@SirShazar]

10:00 The dad who runs a traditional Japanese restaurant. The rebellious son who works at a French restaurant. I feel like I've read this story somewhere in a manga. Amazing video as always!

[@southcoastinventors6583]

The only thing missing is people eating there and their clothes flying off in the process.

[@ivyengee]

Then years later after dad's passing, the son studies the cuisine of his dad and opens a restaurant in his dad's name

[@RandomUserX99]

lol his son is not rebellious - he said his son got hired at the same restaurant he did so the dad also worked as French chef before

[@Jordan-inJapan]

I think it’s a universal archetype. But it reminds me of a similar story in my own area: father passes family business (mochi sweets and soy sauce) on to son, and son rebels by turning it into a beer brewing operation. (True story. And it’s done really well actually. 🍻)

[@paolo487]

Deaimon but the son loves music

[@katarina1338]

Hirana-san has an extremely friendly vibe. I'm actually in awe that he will give his restaurant to his hardworking employees when he retires. Their dishes look very beautiful and I'm sure they taste even better than they look. This episode was super fun and well made, thank you Hirana-san and Paolo.

[@kananbabayev3863]

He doesn't want to give it to his son becsuse his son is a chef but for French cuisine. That's probably insulting

[@Goleon]

@@kananbabayev3863 - I think it’s more like he knows his workers will know how to and be more able at continuing the restaurant the way he does it while his son who’s learning a different cuisine that has it’s own way of dining won’t be able to and might have trouble figuring out what to do. Also it seems like he wants his son to do more of his own thing.

[@EeveeTheNaruto]

I love how the owner gives off such positive vibes when answering questions or talking to his coworkers/customers. It's so refreshing to see them have such a close bond compared to the usual high stress and hostile environment many chefs work in. I'd love to visit one day and try one of those delicious dishes!

[@sputnikalgrim]

The respect and care they show to their jobs and each other is what stands out to me.

[@juri991]

this is my favorite PFT video. I found myself smiling all throughout the video. First, the owner and the staff look like they have a fun camaraderie. Second, the effort and talent they put into this restaurant is unbelievable. Imagine they cook, serve and wash dishes? Third, I just love the vibe overall. If only I am in Japan, I will be a regular. I hope it gets a cult following. The guy who is looking for a girlfriend actually looks good. I am pretty sure he will get one soon.

[@Epolusgaming-gl2wn]

Agree, also the worker looking for a gf seems a lot younger like 25 26 hes going to get it

[@mariansue4107]

Paolo: You must be tired Chef: not at all. I can go forever Thats how Japanese really passionate about their work. Work ethic is incredible.

[@Zehahahahahahahahahahahaha]

That's why they ended up committing suicide

[@wolflike24124]

When Paolo is doing so well in the series, cameos start showing up! hahah

[@KennyTarnished]

That was awesome to see

[@MrBlazemaster525]

pretty soon we'll have the Paolo-verse

[@ShaferHart]

he has crossovers from time to time. It's awesome!

[@VerhoevenSimon]

I loved the manager, and his answer to whom would take over the business.

[@kaydeekelly5852]

such a nice working environment and the foods look awesome. the bento beautifully arranged and the colours are sooo vibrant

[@PaolofromTOKYO]

Yeah, a lot of effort goes into making the food.

[@abdulkhalil8493]

this has easily become my favorite episode in the series. you can tell the owner truly cares for his workers and they care for him also. its great to see such a nice environment

[@ageoflove1980]

10:24 "HAHA, no its not fun...." Love this guy! He seems a lot more upfront than most people. Perhaps because he is the owner and doenst have to watch what he says that much, but I love it!

[@AviatorFan15]

As someone from Germany that learned the job Chef to see how a japanese Restaurant works it such a Joy.Mad respect especially for the owner starting in this critical Times a Restaurant. And thanks as always Paolo for such a good Video with this high quality.

[@thomasji7614]

I yearn to eat at one of these restaurants in Japan in near future. Hopefully Japan will ease up on the full free entry eventually. Paolo sounds little beat at the beginning of the video, please stay healthy and well during the tough time! Thanks for the another fun and great video, have a great weekend! :D

[@tylin168]

kudos to Paolo for waking up early to go to the fish market to film this (that'd explain his "less upbeat" intro. if buyers wake up late, they are not going to get any quality purchases.

[@Jordan-inJapan]

You may be in luck. I just saw on the (Japanese) news that the government has decided to allow ‘free’ tourism starting from mid September. (That tour-groups-only requirement was pretty annoying, right?) Let’s hope they don’t change their minds (again)! 😅

[@jeanettefuller6354]

I also thought Paulo was a little flat at the beginning, but understandable now l realise he had to get up early for the market.🦘🐨🦘🐨😷

[@The_Curious_Cat]

It's "Paolo". Not "Paulo".

[@Aznfanta]

@@Jordan-inJapan u still need a tour agency to do ur scheduling, so no matter what you're paying for extra.

[@greenchilli6660]

I love this guys logical thinking, start a business when you feel things can't get any worse and even naming his restaurant according to this logic that all business has ups and downs like an ocean has tides and ebbs, you can see how happy he is trusting his own instinct and knowing things are not always the same, he flows with the ocean, amazing to see that kind of positive energy, love it!

[@heba6890]

The attention to detail from purchasing products to final presentation of food is wonderful to see. I'd definitely love to eat in his restaurant if I was there.

[@vasiovasio]

10:48 look how he prepares one full bento box for Display and, after that, uses it for references for the other boxes and to be sure that do not forget any of the goodies that he needs to put into the box!

[@jackt53]

clean restaurant. fresh ingredients, a chef that's been in the industry for long before open his own, a crew that work well together. you can see them cook while waiting for your food.

[@JorgeBravoPratscher]

By far the friendliest restaurant I've seen in Japan. While caring for details and being uber professional they do seem to have a nice friendship. Teamwork goes without saying. I don't know if I will be able to go to Japan this year, but I am definitely saving this place. Thanks Paolo

[@brettpatching]

This man is so cool!! So experienced and deeply connected, and seemingly a great person to be around. I fully understand why his employees chose to follow him when he left to open his own restaurant. The restaurant's interior and graphic design are lovely, and what detail with the flowers. Thanks Paolo!

[@ΔημήτρηςΚαραδουλαμάς]

Man I am really glad you met Mori san at the fish market. It really adds a whole different feeling to your videos and it indicates that you leave a good impression to the owners as well. Great video once again and keep the quality high Paolo!!

[@sophiaisabelle027]

Behind The Counter are one of my favorite videos to watch from this channel. It's just so fascinating to see behind-the-scenes processes.

[@JoseMendez-qk6jm]

What a great restaurant. The owner is so professional and he has an awesome staff.

[@onofresilva9325]

wow, I love how you interact with the people It's so wholesome, specially in this video with the conversations

[@mr.wescottx7129]

Ikr, Japanese people so nice.

[@demonsorrows]

Growing up here in the US I've seen too many disrespectful entitled people be complete jerks to workers in the service industry. So while I understand the reasoning behind the saying "customers are gods", I see it the other way around. The hard working people that serve, cook, and assist others, regardless of whether it's a career or just passer-by work on the road to a passion job, they deserve the utmost respect and recognition for what they do.

[@ButterPacket]

I'm always happy whenever one of your videos drop on KZbin, Paolo. Keep up the awesome work! you always bring a lot of behind the scenes on many Japanese people's normal lives.

[@greeneclipse8088]

A new video from you is a perfect birthday present for me! I turned 25 today and I've been watching every video from you since I saw your day in the life of a mechanic. Keep up the great work!

[@MuslimahNefertari]

That one guy cleaned up so nicely, he looked like a completely different person, very handsome, plus his so focused, wish I was in Japan to shoot my shot lol

[@bennethbugna7795]

I love the energy and the chemistry of the trio of this restaurant. I can definitely see the respect and the experience they all gained through out their careers of working together. They seem really chill and friendly too, and their dishes look so amazing! Really deserves an applause 👏👏👏

[@warrenlancaster286]

Amazing how hard they work in Japan . The food always looks amazing .

[@bigbro05]

A true leader will always attract great people to follow him/her. I see that in this beautiful restaurant.

[@jerricandres6422]

I can't imagine preparing, cooking and plating and serving while also doing the dishes will be like this. they are all in sync! Plus the details in the food are amazing. Japanese food is really something.

[@monamieturtle]

So much respect to the manager that he will give his restaurant to his hardworking employees that chose to follow him ! This place looks delicious , will visit next time in Japan

[@calwooten]

i've always wanted to go to Japan, not sure what I'd do the whole time but stopping at restaurants like this would definitely be on the list!

[@annettecaitlyn1058]

Me too. Have wanted to visit from the time I was young!

[@peanutbutter7357]

Sight seeing and restaurants are on my bucket list, Japan looks amazing

[@yingshelly7960]

it would be amazing when we check out Paolo's featuring sights and run into each other too!

[@Vikturus22]

Nice touch with the fresh flowers. Its the little things like this that make me want to go to that place

[@pbarcubez]

Sounds like the owner is a Trader. He says words like "bottomed" and "waves". He's a true businessman.

[@teemupuumalainen3051]

This feels like the best episode yet but I think I have felt the same in every episode. So many different personalities, customs and ways of life. Also very informative

[@crystaldziadosz-brown9882]

I loved the great relationship these men have with each other; you can tell they really get along. The owner has such an inviting personality, the guy who likes the motorcycles is jovial, and I love the one guy at the end saying he is looking for a girlfriend. I feel lots of people think of Japanese as very reserved, but they can be friendly and have personality.

[@justincredibletours4175]

I enjoy watching these videos and now I want to visit Japan just for the culinary experience.

[@jhebztv1595]

It's nice in Japan, everything they do is organized and looks clean

[@IndustrialGradeCopium]

With every video about restaurants you got to respect their love of craft and how dedicated they are to create such amazing dishes and this restaurant right here proves how much expertise they have and time it consumed to be this amazing.

[@Agnagna]

Shared meals and taking rest between the lunch and dinner hours i find absolutely magical and eye opening !! Where else in the world are they doing this cuz it’s definitely not happening in the states. Leisurely time is needed for the mind and important for good productivity and work flow

[@mingmedia808]

This is pretty common for small shops here esp outside the big cities. If you dont get lunch before 2-3pm, lunch is at the combini, a chain, or or waiting for dinner service. Its common in europe too (siesta).

[@Agnagna]

@@mingmedia808 It honestly should be a common practice every where. I love it 😍

[@birdseyeview1543]

You capture on video what most do not, while many show the mechanics of Japanese jobs and life, you show us much more. We see the hearts and minds of the people. Through you, we understand subtleties and nuances of why they do things the way they do. Thank you Paolo.

[@alexp.1965]

Hey, Paolo. I would just like to tell you that I really enjoy watching all of your Behind the Counter episodes. It helps me create interaction with my Japanese students in my online English class. Whenever food becomes our topic I always share your videos and the things I learn from them. This also makes me miss a lot about my life in Japan back then. Japanese foods are truly healthy and delicious.

[@Matt_P]

Wow! I think this might be my favorite video! Mad respect for not only opening a restaurant at 50, but during COVID!! Plus those employees of his are truly a vibe. I wish nothing but the best for all of them.

[@ev721]

If I ever make it to Japan, I'll have to check this one out. Food looks amazing and staff seems so friendly.

[@leedavies7580]

That food looked amazing, shows what a good team can do !

[@eumyrjoemarcelino211]

Hope you could do one for a Japanese Coffee shop. I went to one before when I went to have my vacation in japan, It was very simple and I know I enjoyed my stay there and the food and coffee was so good. Thanks and more power bro!

[@SY_STAR]

It's so nice to see people open up - Paolo is such a friendly medium - Finding common grounds and seeing people smile and laugh. It was lovely to see the chief feel more relaxed 😊✌️

[@iamReddington]

5:18 Gotta commend him for opening during covid. Also very nice of him to offer you some tea.

[@PixelNorse]

What I love about these videos, is the people you're filming seems to enjoy your presence and explain everything they can, they're polite, kind and very imformative, I always learn a lot watching.

[@senguptasthiti]

I love how meticulous Japanese chefs are- from picking the fresh ingredients to cleanliness to presentation, they are just top notch! Love the coordination between chefs and the main restaurant owner seems so fit 🙂. Lots of love from India 🙏🏽

[@canata377]

I love the baskets they serve the food on, really amazing presentation! That cook can't still be single, he's a cutie 🥰

[@MissWeerdo]

I love the professionalism! And the food looks so yummy!!!

[@youtubehandol]

10:36 was a bit of an oof moment after your last knife making factory tour! lol, love the honesty though

[@angiep8217]

Everything is so fresh & made so well. Kitchen is so clean too! Japanese food in Japan is so good everywhere😋

[@YARCHLRL]

What I find interesting and quite refreshing is not only do they open their lives to you to show us all but the pride all of the staff has showed in all of these videos is simply amazing. When one can beam pride and enjoyment in their vocation is becomes a calling not a paycheck . I thoroughly enjoy these videos.

[@vhyleung]

A truly heartwarming inside look this was :) And it only increased my appreciation and love for traditional Japanese restaurants.

[@mikegoldbey6186]

Total respect to the manager and his team. The food looks gorgeous and the ethos is brilliant, having total respect for his colleagues.

[@fullmetvl1017]

I really like this video Paolo. The chef, the workers and the restaurant are amazing. I would definitely eat there, hopefully soon when I got to 🇯🇵.

[@yeevita]

Amazing restaurant. I love how much attention they pay to all details, so everything complements the food. The food, of course, is also beautiful, and looks absolutely delicious!

[@Terahnee]

I'm with him. Grilled salted mackerel is amazing. I can only get it frozen now and I miss going to the fish market to pick out the fish I wanted.

[@aribusarebetti1]

Probably one of the best behind the counter you have ever made! Excellent job Paolo!!! 😍😍

[@hukmai]

I love the scenes with the substantially large mushroom top fern leaves in a box, very Japan

[@lastborn08]

That food looks absolutely delish! The owner is so humble. Lastly Paolo I have enjoyed watching your videos all the way in South Africa,please continue to make more of the behind the scenes and the day in the life series. Thank you for all the amazing videos

[@Zzues]

When my wife and I finally visit Japan in a few years, we must eat here, looks delicious and they are so nice 😀.

[@wloww]

Aw what a humble group and the food looks so delicious

[@HarajukuSiren]

These "day in the life" videos are one of my little joys! I get so happy when I see a new one is up. I just love seeing other people's slice of life at work. Idea for a new series: Japanese cultural events. I would LOVE to see festivals, concerts, meetings, etc. Thank you for making these great videos Paolo, they really brighten my day!

[@JasperCasper24]

aw what a trio of great guys

[@Yquan151]

Sorry Paolo, but the chef stole the show! Such a pleasure to watch him. Great video!

[@Jordan-inJapan]

Yeah, it’s rare when someone can ‘out-personality’ Paolo! 😆

[@davidbishop4015]

Great video. I enjoy your videos very much. I like seeing a part of the world through your eyes because you keep it interesting. Stay safe.

[@SinisterMD]

If circumstances were different I would absolutely love to live in Japan. The culture, food and people are all amazing. Thanks for sharing it with us.

[@charisjunianto]

I really want to Open my own business in the future, Your content really Inspire me a Lot, Thanks Paolo!!

[@Chaaos2]

Wow, I am absolutely amazed. He makes everything with thought and care.. a true master craftsman. I would love to go to this restaurant

[@kenjix1794]

I really enjoy your restaurant episodes the most it shows the love and hard work that's being put in each prepared meal. It makes you appreciate each meal and bite you take so much more.

[@marcriter]

Great video Paolo!! I have been watching all of your videos since 50k subs and you always amaze me, the videos always manage to top the last. Keep up the great work, I wish I could meet you some day! Thanks for this video!

[@jasonking6892]

Brilliant video Always top class 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@TheLilFood]

The bento for that price… I would eat it every day if I could. The video production quality was amazing also!

[@lonesquid]

Wow, Paola! You are a master at presenting Japan! Awesome job building rapport with those you interview! Most foreigners probably don’t realize how special that skill is - especially with the Japanese, who are generally very private. Thanks again!!!

[@Thorium_Th]

4:02 Oh they have to import fennel to Japan? That's interesting. We have fennel fields here in Germany and I love the scent of fennel. Fennel tea is also very delicious and good for the digestive system ❤☕

[@Macho_Fantastico]

Their food looks amazing.

[@TheJohn8765]

Damn. I wish I could get a bento box of that quality for that price around here. Their food looks really, really good! And the team looks happy, too. Nice to see.

[@rekuhizakidrg9540]

One of the best episode!!!

[@ChihirosJapaneseKitchen]

Another great video Paolo! I actually opened a ramen store in Tokyo during covid (terrible timing I know 😆) since I was always fascinated by how much care and pride these small mom & pop type Japanese restaurants operate. I failed the first time around, but hope to open one again back in the US eventually!

[@jessicamendes4366]

Sad to read that, but great things happen to great people so you’re definitely going to succeed in US or any other place! ^-^

[@ChihirosJapaneseKitchen]

@@jessicamendes4366 thanks Jessica, Ill make it happen eventually👍

[@rattlehead2199]

Wow that food looks amazing

[@sordove]

I love when you randomly use slang words like "no cap" it makes my day 😂

[@Nokenify]

Amazing episode. Thank you!

[@wisecanadianwoman]

Paolo, I really enjoyed this video. I like watching all of your videos but in this one you could feel the amazing energy that they all have with each other and that always shows and tasts in the food they create.

[@natanielchiu9396]

Looking forward for more day in the life and behind the counter vids please.

[@nazilahhashim1870]

i love the Behind the Counter segment👏👏👏👏 thank you Paolo

[@CrazylorFTW]

This one was so nice. It was nice to see the interactions between them all. You could see the respect they have for their boss and the love their boss shows them. To have this kind of work relationship and lifestyle is admirable, it's always nice to see humans bonded so well and healthly together. It shows in their work and the food looks amazing, I hope by the time I have the chance to visit Japan I will be able to go to this place. Wish them all the best.

[@chad_artiaga12]

I really like Japan! ❤️ It's so clean and their work ethics are amazing 🔥🤩.. Keep it up, Hirana-san and staff. 💪