Tabelog ratingAt bb9 (bb9), a Basque-style asador in Kobe, fire is the primary instrument. Nearly every dish on the tasting menu is finished over a wood fire (known in Japanese as 薪火, or makibi), making smoke, temperature, and the precise distance from the flame part of the restaurant's culinary language. This singular focus on fire-based cooking has made it a destination for diners seeking a highly technical and elemental experience.
Guests consistently praise the signature moments of the meal. These include warm smoked caviar, house-made bread served with smoked butter and white truffle, and a smoked ice cream for dessert. Other standout dishes frequently mentioned are expertly fire-finished fish like shimaaji (striped jack) and buri (yellowtail), perfectly aged beef steaks, and a rich crab risotto. The sommelier and the thoughtful wine pairings, which diners say can transform a dish, also receive high marks.
The main point of criticism is the price, which can rise substantially with wine pairings. A few reviewers noted unclear extra fees or surprise charges for sips of rare wines. The service pace is another point of division; while some appreciate the efficiency, others found it brisk or rushed, with plates cleared too quickly.
The omakase tasting menu is priced around ¥27,500, according to recent reviews. With wine pairings, guests report final bills ranging from ¥38,000 to over ¥55,000 per person, especially when older vintages are chosen. For diners seeking a unique, technique-driven meal with world-class wines, bb9 offers a worthy experience. However, it is not a good value proposition for those on a budget.
- Reservations: Essential and can be difficult to secure. Bookings are primarily handled through the OMAKASE website.
- Menu: A single tasting menu (omakase) is served. There is no à la carte option.
- Getting There: The restaurant is a 3-minute walk from either JR Motomachi Station or Hanshin Motomachi Station. The entrance is located on a narrow side alley, so follow your map closely.
- Payment: Major credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not. A 10% service charge is added to the bill.
- Seating: The restaurant has 8 counter seats.
- Children: Children are welcome if they can eat the full adult tasting menu. For families with infants or younger children, the restaurant can be booked for private use at lunchtime by prior arrangement.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No parking is available.
