I'm always in search of great food but I often find that authentic is not always best or even authentic for that matter. I admit it I like spicy mayo on my spicy salmon roll, so what? 3 years ago I wouldn't touch sushi and now I would not hesitate to try one of those managers specials. I am always up for new experiences and I would treat these places like a novelty. I mean come on, it's better than going to Applebees.
While I was at music school I lived with Japanese roommates for years. When eating with them I realized there were a lot of differences between me and them. Eventhough they were young and very hip young people in their early 20's, they imposed cultural rules while eating. We often discussed it and they told me that in Japan I would be considered rude if I ate the way I normally did (reaching for a platter before anyone else, etc). No matter how uber modern Japan is now there are still cultural expectations that are fascinating to us westerners and this sort of restaurant fulfills that. Likewise if you're going to a hip french restaurant you expect the maitre d' to have a french accent.  |