Where to find Whale Steak in Tokyo

21:07.33 - Wednesday 4th October 2006   (Link to This Entry)

A few people have asked about the Whale Steak I had in Tokyo so I figured I'd elaborate.

I initially asked the girl on reception where I could eat whale, but after a misunderstanding in which she must have thought I was trying to score some crack or something, I gave up and resorted to using t'internet.

The restaurant I went to was called Kujira-ya and it's in Shibuya. Exit Shibuya Station and look for the 109 Department Store. There are two - 109 and 109 Men's - and you want the Ladies' version. 109 is between two streets that form a V-shape, and Kujira-ya is on the right arm of the V. There was a camera crew there when I went - strange but true.

There's a set Whale Steak meal that costs ¥1600 (About £8) which consists of about 8 pieces of whalemeat, a bowl of rice, crispy fried bits, soup and various flavourings. The little old lady will occasionally appear and disappear to refill your cup of tea as well. The whale is delicious and not at all fatty - I enjoyed it so much I went back again a few days later.

At the far end of the restaurant are five tables for two in a simple, stylish room. If you get the window table, you can sit and watch teh world go by in relative privacy while you eat.