Dinner in Rappongi

"Excuse me, ma'am, can you please pronounce the name of your restaurant for me? I would hate to insult your fine establishment with how *I* think it is pronounced!"

Well, despite how the name looks, the sushi was awesome - damned expensive, but awesome. This place was in Rappongi down a back alley behind the Hard Rock Cafe. It had a good mix of locals and tourists so I felt comfortable eating there. That and to tell people I ate at 'Fukuzushi'. I am a little worried though. When I open my combination vietnamese soup restaurant and pool hall (Pho-Q's) I am hoping there is not a trademark infringement!

Speaking of that pronunciation, it seems that Rappongi is a bit different than it was 10 years ago when I was last in Tokyo. So after dinner and shopping at the HRC store I walked arond a bit. At every corner there is at least 3-4 guys standing around waiting to convince some guy - or group of guys - to come into their men's club, bar, or whatever. If you have ever been to Las Vegas and had the pamphlets, cards and fliers jammed in your face you have some idea of how these guys operate. Let me tell you though, the guys in Las Vegas are downright courteous and cooperative compared to these guys. I don't know how many times you have to say no, or how much ignoring them will get them to ge tthe idea and leave you alone. I am surprised one of them didn't jump in the cab with me to continue his pitch!

Now I am not sure if one of those street recruiters worked for this place, but it certainly has a questionable sign to say the least! While the sign caught my attention, I did NOT go into the establishment. I figured it was probably best to keep moving - and quickly!

One thing you can see in Rappongi is Tokyo Tower. It is kind of like their version of the Eiffle Tower, but I believe it is actually a TV or some other communications tower.

Now, back closer to home, once I got back to the hotel I decided I had to have some ice cream. I set out to find it. I had no idea what I would find but figured I'd at least look. On that journey I came across this strange restaurant. I couldn't help but think of Chick-fil-A's cows that are always imploring people to "eat more chikin". I figure if they couldn't get you to eat 'chikin' then they would be 'bawling'. I was tempted but did not check it out. Who wants to see a bunch of crying cows anyways!