Tabelog ratingMetzgerei Kusuda Ashiya (メツゲライクスダ 芦屋店) is a destination for anyone serious about European-style charcuterie. Located in the city of Ashiya, it operates as both a takeaway deli counter and a tiny restaurant, specializing in handmade German sausages, French pâtés, and terrines. Many visitors consider it worth a dedicated trip, citing its restaurant-quality products.
Guests consistently praise the robust, juicy sausages (bratwurst), the rich pâté de campagne, and the various terrines. The signature hot dog, served on bread from the famed Biobrot bakery, is singled out in nearly every review as a standout item. Plated dishes like roasted chicken or petit salé (cured pork) also receive high marks, often enjoyed with a selection of wine or beer.
The experience does come with some practical trade-offs. A few reviewers have noted that service can be brusque, and the ordering system—writing your choices on a paper slip at the entrance—can be confusing for first-time visitors. The eat-in area is extremely small, with only six seats, and popular items can sell out before the early last call. A small number of diners also found some sausages to be on the salty side.
Despite premium pricing, most find Metzgerei Kusuda offers good value given the high quality of the ingredients and craft. Reviewers recently paid ¥800–¥1,300 for the hot dog, ¥1,500–¥1,700 for a lasagna plate, and between ¥1,800 and ¥3,000 for sausage sets. A typical lunch costs around ¥2,000–¥2,900, while a lighter meal or takeaway purchase can be ¥1,000–¥1,999.
- Getting There: The shop is a 7-minute walk from the South Exit of JR Ashiya Station.
- Booking & Seating: With only 6 seats, booking is highly recommended for the eat-in space, which often sells out. Walk-ins may not be possible. There are no private rooms.
- Ordering: You are expected to write your order on a paper slip provided at the entrance.
- Payment: VISA, Mastercard, JCB, and AMEX are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not. Some reviewers report a minimum spend (e.g., ¥3,000) for card use, so bringing cash is advisable.
- Children: Children are welcome.
- Smoking: The entire establishment is non-smoking.
- Parking: There is no dedicated parking, but paid coin-operated lots are available nearby.
