Interview with staff member KAMOI Toshio
We spoke with KAMOI Toshio, who has been frying kushikatsu since the opening of Kushi-tei, about the restaurant's features, the charm of kushikatsu, and the story behind its founding.
This interview is based on the content from the initial interview conducted in October 2019.
Opened to promote the rare kushikatsu in Kurashiki
Why did you open Kushi-tei?
KAMOI
The owner of Kushi-tei is originally from Kyoto.
While kushikatsu in Osaka's Minami area is famous nationwide, kushikatsu is a familiar presence in Kansai, including Kyoto.
In the 1990s, kushikatsu was not well known in Kurashiki, and there were few kushikatsu restaurants.
Therefore, the owner opened Kushi-tei with the desire for the people of Kurashiki to know more about kushikatsu and enjoy kushikatsu casually.
The opening was in 1999.
The location is the same as it is now.
By the way, the name "Kushikatsu Baka Ichidai" is taken from the old manga "Karate Baka Ichidai."
How did you come to work at Kushi-tei?
KAMOI
After graduating from school, I worked part-time at various restaurants.
At that time, I met the owner, who asked me to help open a kushikatsu restaurant, and I started working at Kushi-tei from its opening.
However, I was born and raised in Kurashiki, so I didn't know much about kushikatsu itself.
Of course, it was my first time making kushikatsu.
At first, I was confused because I didn't know what to do (laughs).
I was taught the basics, but cooking also has intuitive and sensory aspects.
I learned those while working and through self-study.
The charm of kushikatsu is that anyone can casually enjoy various ingredients
What do you see as the charm of kushikatsu?
KAMOI
The best part is that you can casually eat various types.
Most kushikatsu are about one or two bites in size.
So, you can eat many different types little by little, which keeps it from getting boring.
Moreover, it's easy to adjust the amount you eat, so there are fewer chances of overeating or leaving food behind.
People on diets or those with small appetites can eat with peace of mind.
Also, even foods you might not like can be enjoyed when they are made into kushikatsu.
This is another charm of kushikatsu.
Another appealing aspect is that you can eat it on the skewer without using chopsticks or a spoon.
That's why it's popular with children.
Many families with children also come to dine.
Focused on local and seasonal ingredients
What is Kushi-tei's commitment?
KAMOI
At Kushi-tei, we are particular about our ingredients.
We try to use local ingredients from Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture, and nearby areas as much as possible.
We also actively use seasonal ingredients for each of the four seasons.
As a result, we change the menu with the seasons.
Additionally, we put effort into menus other than kushikatsu.
We also use local and seasonal ingredients for dishes other than kushikatsu.
In particular, the seafood dishes are changed daily based on the day's procurement.
When you visit, look forward to what the menu will be that day.
Also, the fresh gluten and yuba dishes sent directly from the owner's hometown of Kyoto are popular menu items.
Horse sashimi sent directly from Kyushu is also recommended.
This menu was made possible through connections with a vendor we have a good relationship with.
Kushi-tei has a high repeat rate among locals, but strives to create an atmosphere that is easy for first-time visitors
What are the features of Kushi-tei?
KAMOI
Kushi-tei is characterized by a high repeat rate among local customers.
At the same time, we also welcome first-time customers.
There is a hotel nearby, and we receive introductions from the hotel, so business travelers and tourists also come to dine.
We pay attention to creating an atmosphere that is easy for first-time visitors to feel comfortable approaching us.
Kushi-tei values "ichigo ichie" (a once-in-a-lifetime encounter), so the distance to customers is close
Are there any other charms of Kushi-tei?
KAMOI
Since its opening, Kushi-tei has operated with the motto of "ichigo ichie."
Therefore, the distance between customers and the restaurant is very close, which is a selling point of Kushi-tei.
We want both regulars and first-time visitors to enjoy the kushikatsu and dishes in a fun atmosphere.
If you are a first-time visitor and have any questions or want to know about recommended dishes, please feel free to ask the staff!
Conclusion
As Mr. KAMOI mentioned, I believe the charm of kushikatsu is that you can enjoy various flavors.
Moreover, Kushi-tei is particular about local and seasonal ingredients.
Because kushikatsu is easy to eat, I thought you could enjoy many attractive ingredients.
The friendly staff creates an atmosphere where you can easily ask questions.
Kushi-tei is a place where both first-time visitors and regulars can enjoy a wide variety of ingredients.
Please try the local and seasonal flavors of kushikatsu at least once.
Of course, the a la carte dishes are also recommended.
Data on Kushikatsu Baka Ichidai Kushi-tei
| Name | Kushikatsu Baka Ichidai Kushi-tei |
|---|---|
| Address | 2-5-10 Achi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture, 2nd floor White Plaza |
| Contact | 086-426-9483 |
| Parking | None |
| Business Hours | 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM |
| Regular Holiday | Monday |
| Payment Methods |
|
| Reservation Availability | Yes Accepted by phone Same-day reservations possible |
| Seating | 22 seats total ・Counter: 10 seats ・4-person tables: 3 * The number of tables can be increased by rearranging and adding extra chairs |
| Smoking | Smoking allowed |
| Toilet | Western-style toilet |
| Childcare | Stroller access allowed Children's utensils available |
| Barrier-Free | No steps inside the restaurant, wheelchair access is possible, but there is no elevator to the second floor, only stairs |
