Tabelog ratingKushiage Hayashi (串揚げはやし) is a one-man show, an eight-seat counter on the seventh floor of a nondescript building in Fukuoka's Sumiyoshi district. Here, the chef-owner orchestrates an entire evening of high-end kushiage (deep-fried skewers), creating a personal and theatrical dining experience. The focus is on a precise, low-temperature frying technique that results in an impossibly thin and light panko crust, which the chef is said to time by ear.
The omakase menu is heavily focused on premium meats and seafood. Guests consistently praise the quality of the beef skewers, which include cuts like A5 sōroin (sirloin), fillet, and chateaubriand, served juicy and rare inside their delicate batter. Other standout items include a perfectly cooked crab claw, prawn with shiso, and delicate bites like scallop with caviar. The experience is amplified by generous sake pairings, with the chef often opening fresh bottles to match the skewers, and lively banter across the counter.
However, the intimate and freewheeling atmosphere has its downsides. Some diners report issues with reservations, including forgotten bookings. The chef's interactive style can sometimes become brusque or repetitive, particularly as he drinks with guests throughout the evening. The small space can also become loud if other parties are boisterous. The meal can end abruptly, and the menu offers very few non-alcoholic options.
Reviewers in 2025-2026 reported the omakase course at ¥9,680. With several glasses of sake, the final bill typically landed between ¥12,000 and ¥15,000 per person. For those who appreciate high-quality meat and an immersive, sake-fueled evening, it offers excellent value. For non-drinkers or those seeking formal, polished service, it may be less suitable.
- Reservations: A reservation is essential and can be difficult to secure. It is highly recommended to confirm your booking by phone, as there have been reports of forgotten reservations.
- Getting There: The restaurant is a 3-minute walk from Kushida Shrine-mae Station (Nanakuma Line). It is located on the 7th floor of the modern bureau sumiyoshi riva building, and signage is minimal.
- Seating: Seating is at an L-shaped counter with just 8 seats. Expect the meal to last 2–3 hours.
- Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
- Menu: The menu is a fixed omakase, heavily focused on beef and seafood. It is not suitable for vegetarians.
- Drinks: The restaurant specializes in sake, and non-alcoholic options are very limited.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No dedicated parking is available, but there are paid parking lots nearby.
