Behind the Counter at the ONLY Japanese Monkfish Restaurant in Tokyo

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Behind the counter at a rare Japanese Monkfish restaurant in Tokyo Japan. This hidden Tokyo food gem is definitely a one of kind. I'm taking you deep into the kitchen of Isegen, which has a generational history. Once a traditional eel dojo restaurant dating back to the Edo period, it underwent a remarkable transformation under its second owner, evolving into a distinguished Monk Fish specialty shop. The very structure of the shop so steeped in history, it’s earned recognition as a protected architectural site by the government that its meticulously preserved, ensuring its timeless beauty.

Monkfish, aka Ankou, is a considered a premium ingredient similar to lobster in Japan and it’s fished from the bottom of the ocean, often served in a delectable hot pot followed up with an irresistible porridge. Today, the shop proudly continues it’s almost 200 year legacy, serving a distinctive dish helping preserve one of Tokyo’s culinary heritage, passed down from generation to generation.

Isegen Monkfish Restaurant

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I'm from TOKYO JAPAN, I've been living here for a long time. I'll be your Tokyo Travel Guide, taking you to the spots I love as well as showing you what to do all around Japan and maybe sometimes overseas. I'm also into Tech so you'll see a few videos about my drone and other cool toys I discover. In short, the channel is all about what I Love, Japan, Food, Travel, Tech and most likely coming FROM-TOKYO, my home.

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[earthuser]

Its absolutely mindblowing that these people work in this restaurant for over 30 years. That is some healthy and friendly work enviroment right there! Also stuff must eat some real secret recepies to stay so healthy and young.

[monkeyms]

The cook being in his 50s and the mom being 70 is CRAZY

[gojosgirl]

No way that guy is only 54! I thought he was gonna say he was a student at the University! When he said he had been there for 30 years I was like "have you been there since birth?" Even his 70 year old mom looks young for her age, amazing.

[LEVATHYN]

The hostess is 70! How lovely. Shows what staying busy, eating well, having social connections does for human health.

[ZebraLens]

I love the *_"Day in the Life"_* and *_"Behind the Counter"_* videos🙌 I like seeing how the Japanese people go about everyday life✨

[MyrrdinWylltEmrys]

The Owner is ridiculously HANDSOME OMG!!!

[icegrx]

Paolo, I was very impressed with the camera work in this one. The angles while he was carving up that monk fish were incredible.

You’re really leveling up the production and filming side of things. Nice work guys!

[tatianalatreille]

I honestly appreciate the shrines for the animals so much. To see a culture and people that appreciate their fish and show gratitude is so heartwarming❤

[codysteel]

I absolutely love these kind of videos and I always get excited whenever you post these. There really entertaining and your amazing at voice overs. Keep up the great work and keep making the best content on YouTube 😊❤

[philiq]

I always love seeing the people behind the counter and hearing their stories -- even the customers. The food is secondary for me, but complements the feature so deliciously. Thanks, Paolo. 👌

[snehjotkaur]

I'm so grateful that you post videos related to japanese food that also relates to its history, it's fascinating

[BlueBull]

The shopowner’s mother radiates such an elegant but cheerful and welcoming energy on top of being gorgeous, I was smiling at her before I knew it!

[gabbynegron]

You can tell this is a business that promotes such a healthy lifestyle for work. They all of course are understandable close, and it shows. And to be in business for so long, they are providing such amazing services.

[SAPPERBRAVO]

I thought it was very interesting to see a few foreigners working at such a historical traditional restaurant! Was really hoping Paolo would have given the two we saw on cam, some air time, just because you really don't get to hear much from foreign workers in Japanese owned establishments 😊.

[sentimentalmindless]

I’m from India..Thank you for inspiring me to visit Japan and I just loved your place, your culture, your food, your politeness.. and everything, I’m going to return again in 2024.. keep your videos flowing

[Boomdizzle]

Wow....working in one place for 30 years. Thats incredible stability and dedication. Very local and well supported by the community! Love that for them 😊

[YakuVegaNari]

I think the behind the counter series is my favourite of your series. It's so personable and informative, and I feel like this video really captured your ability to educate and help folks tell their stories. Loved this!

[knero]

Went to visit Japan recently and managed to buy Paolo's hot sauce in person from a shop in Tsukiji market. I would say that it's become my favorite hot sauce. It's spicy but it's unlike any other hot sauce out there. It's very flavorful and full of umami that reminds me of Japan. I definitely plan to buy more online when I finish my batch. Congrats to you and your family on all of your success. I've been subscribed to your channel all the way back since 20k subs 😄

[iDgaFarce]

It's amazing they're able to share even though they're working. Im not sure if its because you made them prepare for it or its just because you're good at your interviews and approachable. Puts a smile on my face within the entire video.

[jennapostcardlovingtraveller]

Went there to eat 10 years ago... loved it!
Across the street, there's a traditional Japanese sweets/cafe.