Connect with us

Hospitality

CRAFTING THE PERFECT BOWL

Published

on

Chef standing in a professional kitchen holding a bowl of ramen with both hands, wearing black gloves, a dark shirt, and a towel draped around his neck, with stainless‑steel counters and cooking equipment in the background.

An exclusive interview with Chef Atsushi Yamamoto, Konjiki Hototogisu

Take us back to 2006, what was it like running your cozy little ramen spot in Shibuya during those first few years?

    I started with a small shop of just 23 square meters and only 8 seats. It was located in a narrow alley where only about 30 locals passed by each day, and no cars could enter. During the first year, I had only about five customers on most days, and even on good days, it was less than 20. Since I was married, it was especially tough to make a living. I couldn’t afford to waste ingredients, so I would take home any leftover ingredients, which allowed me to get by each day. In Japan, ramen shops typically only serve ramen, and it was common for a customer to eat just one bowl and leave. A bowl of ramen was priced at about half of what it is today, so we had no room to buy ingredients for ourselves. Since there were many times when there were no customers in the shop, I used that time, as well as after closing, to constantly study ingredients and cooking techniques. I always thought about what kind of ramen would be appreciated by customers and made an effort to learn and improve.

    What first drew you into the kitchen? Was it passion, curiosity, or pure hunger to create something your own?

    When I was 24 years old, I witnessed a chef at a restaurant I visited for the first time receiving thanks from a regular customer who said, “Thank you for always serving delicious food. It was very tasty today as well.” Seeing that made me want to pursue a job where I could inspire and be appreciated by others, just like that chef. I still remember that moment vividly.

    From Tokyo to Dubai, how did adapting to the UAE dining scene challenge or change your cooking mindset?

    I am constantly thinking about how to create ramen that utilises local ingredients and how to make it unique to me. Additionally, I have always considered what is necessary for the local residents to appreciate my ramen. My philosophy is to continue improving the flavour until it receives positive feedback. If there has been a change within me, it is my perspective on the taste preferences of the people in Dubai. I have reaffirmed that people’s tastes differ significantly from country to country.

    If every bowl tells a story, what do you hope the final spoonful leaves your guest thinking?

    I hope that customers understand that the flavour of the ramen they enjoy is the result of many years of development. I strive to create flavours that allow them to experience the story of the maker when they eat it.

    What’s the one lesson you learnt by sleeping in your shop and tweaking recipes until midnight, what would you tell your younger self?

    The year I opened my shop in 2006 was a time when many well-regarded restaurants were opening. My shop received no customers at all, while many others that opened the same year quickly had long lines. I felt incredibly frustrated. However, I believed that if I worked hard, I could surely become the best. As a result of taking the time to improve my ramen, I am where I am today. I believe that hard work never betrays you.

    Finally, what I would like to tell my younger self is, “Thank you for always believing in yourself and continuing to work hard.” I am simply filled with gratitude. Moving forward, I will do my utmost to put smiles on my customers’ faces.

    Continue Reading
    Click to comment

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Hospitality

    EMBRACE THE SPIRIT OF RAMADAN WITH A CURATED IFTAR AND SUHOOR STAY AT MILLENNIUM LAKEVIEW HOTEL

    Published

    on

    This Ramadan, Millennium Lakeview Hotel, invites guests to indulge in a Ramadan experience that brings together timeless luxury and approachable sophistication, where every detail is curated for comfort, connection, and elevated dining.

    For a surreal and memorable Iftar experience, embrace the spirit of togetherness at Lakehouse Bistro, a relaxed, lake-facing dining destination overlooking the gorgeous waterfront. As the sun sets, guests can embrace the magic of Iftar with their loved ones against a stunning sunset backdrop in a serene, open-air setting. The poolside Iftar’s outdoor seating arrangements are carefully designed to immerse guests in Arabian heritage, offering a diverse array of options.

    Indulge in Middle Eastern and international iftar dishes, including non-vegetarian and vegetarian options, and a variety of desserts daily from sunset, starting 18th February.

    The specially curated Iftar menu brings together exquisite Arabic classics and distinctive Ramadan flavours. Begin your fast-breaking ritual with traditional refreshments such as Tamr Hindi, Qamar Al Din, and Karkade, followed by a generous selection of fresh and oriental salads. Guests can then indulge in live culinary stations, including a Mixed Grill featuring Shish Touk and Lamb Kofta, a carving station with traditional Ozi, and a fried mezze counter serving meat kibbeh, fatayer, and potato tajine. The main course selection further delights with Kebabs Halla, grilled beef steak, Fish Harra, and aromatic Chicken Biryani.

    Celebrate the spirit of the Holy Month with Millennium’s HALA RAMADAN STAY OFFER, thoughtfully curated for a comfortable and meaningful Ramadan experience. Guests can enjoy 10% off the Best Available Rate along with specially prepared Iftar and Suhoor during their stay, combining convenience, warmth, and value.

    The package includes a Suhoor set menu served in-room before fasting time and Iftar served just after sunset, ensuring a seamless and restful experience throughout the month. Available for bookings from 27 January to 18 March 2026 and valid for stays from 17 February to 18 March 2026, this limited-time offer invites guests to make their Ramadan truly special with attentive hospitality and comforting touches. Use the promo code HALARAMADAN when booking.

    Rooted in the spirit of a four-star urban business hotel, Millennium Lakeview Hotel reflects a brand promise that is convenient, efficient, and enjoyable, chic and affordable, yet modern and service-driven. With diverse cuisines and tastes available across its dining venues, the hotel’s Food & Beverage specialists carefully tailor offerings to local preferences and seasonal experiences such as Ramadan.

    This Ramadan, Lakehouse Bistro welcomes guests to gather, reflect, and celebrate over a soulful Iftar in a setting that blends serenity, flavor, and heartfelt hospitality.

    Continue Reading

    Hospitality

    VOCO BONNINGTON BRINGS BLIND DATE WITH A BOOK, A CAFÉ LED EXPERIENCE WITH A SURPRISE READ

    Published

    on

    The Authors’ Lounge at voco Bonnington JLT introduces its Blind Date with a Book, a book themed lounge experience built around reading and café style indulgence. The package is priced at AED 69 and includes one beverage, including tea or coffee, one dessert, and a surprise wrapped book.

    Created for readers and café goers alike, the Blind Date with a Book offer combines the comfort of a quiet lounge setting with the pleasure of discovering a new title. Guests receive a wrapped book selected as a surprise, paired with a coffee and dessert from the lounge menu, encouraging slow moments and relaxed reading.

    With its library inspired interiors, comfortable seating, and quiet atmosphere, Authors’ Lounge provides a natural backdrop for book led experiences. The space supports relaxed visits within an upscale lounge environment.

    Authors’ Lounge remains a steady favourite for those who value calm spaces and thoughtful dining. In line with voco Bonnington JLT’s approach to warm hospitality and quality dining, the lounge focuses on attentive service and an inviting environment that appeals to both hotel guests and the wider JLT community.

    What to expect

    • One freshly brewed coffee of your choice along with a dessert from the lounge selection
    • One surprise wrapped book to unwrap and keep
    • Quiet, comfortable lounge seating suited for relaxed solo visits or slow catch ups

    VOCO Bonnington Launches Charming Blind Date Books

    Discover VOCO Bonnington’s new Blind Date With a Book experience for guests.

    Continue Reading

    Hospitality

    GITANO DUBAI SETS THE SCENE FOR A BEACHSIDE IFTAR THIS RAMADAN ON J1 BEACH

    Published

    on

    This Ramadan, GITANO Dubai invites guests to experience Iftar in its signature beachfront setting on J1 Beach, where the spirit of the Holy Month meets the brand’s unmistakable bohemian aesthetic. Designed around sharing and connection, the experience showcases bold, Tulum-inspired flavours within a refined yet relaxed seaside atmosphere.

    Priced at AED 260 per person, the curated Iftar menu is designed to be enjoyed communally, beginning with a vibrant selection of starters served to the table. Guests break their fast with dates before exploring an array of colourful dishes, from creamy Guacamole with corn totopos and warm Pan de Queso, to refreshing Watermelon Salad dressed with chili and plum, and GITANO’s Tulum Fattoush layered with citrus and pomegranate. Comforting bowls of Pozole Soup and smoky Chicken Pastor Skewers add depth and warmth, setting the tone for an indulgent evening ahead.

    The experience continues with generous mains to share, showcasing bold flavours and elevated techniques. Highlights include tender Baby Chicken infused with arbol chili and roast garlic, delicate Branzino steamed in banana leaf with tomatillo and serrano, and indulgent Quesabirria filled with slow-roasted short rib and melted Chihuahua cheese. Accompanied by fragrant Mexican rice with salsa verde and chalaca, the feast is both satisfying and celebratory.

    To conclude on a sweet note, guests are treated to GITANO’s playful dessert – crisp Churros paired with rich Abuelita chocolate, alongside indulgent Dubai Chocolate Tacos layered with pistachio and ice cream.

    Complementing the menu is a thoughtfully curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, including fresh juices, house-made sodas, and traditional teas, from ginger mint and cucumber chlorophyll blends to classic Vimto, all perfectly suited to the spirit of the season.

    With its barefoot elegance, warm hospitality, and soulful energy, GITANO Dubai’s Ramadan Iftar offers a refined yet relaxed way to honour the Holy Month, where friends and family come together beachside, flavours are shared, and evenings linger long after the last bite.

    GITANO Dubai’s Ramadan Iftar:

    Availability: Entire month of Ramadan

    Continue Reading

    Trending

    Copyright © 2023 | The Integrator