Kuimono Ya Kiyosumi: Table-side Maesawa Beef Steak

Kuimono Ya Kiyosumi (くいものや きよすみ) is a one-of-a-kind Korean dining experience in Kawasaki, driven by the personality of its owner and the quality of its beef. The restaurant, a recipient of the Tabelog Asian/Ethnic EAST "Tabelog 100" award, is centered on a single concept: premium, never-frozen Maesawa beef, cooked for you at your table by the proprietress, or 'mama'. She expertly handles, grills, and scissors-cuts enormous slabs of harami (skirt steak), turning the meal into a performance. The drippings are then used to prepare finishing dishes like garlic rice or tail soup.

Guests consistently praise the Maesawa harami steak for being exceptionally tender and flavourful without being greasy. Other high-quality items like fillet steak, fresh liver, and house-made kimchi also receive acclaim, as do occasional premium starters like simmered abalone or o-toro tuna. Portions are famously generous, and the owner's entertaining, larger-than-life hospitality often includes complimentary dishes.

However, the experience is not for everyone. Some find the owner's personality blunt and note that she can favour regulars. Prices are often quoted as 'market price' (時価, or 'jika'), which can lead to an unexpectedly high bill; one party of two reported a final cost of around ¥17,000 for meat, drinks, and extras. Reviewers cite typical dinner spends of ¥10,000–¥15,000 per person, with the Maesawa harami steak itself quoted around ¥9,000. For meat lovers seeking a unique show, it's considered good value, but less so for the budget-conscious.

• Location: In the Isago district of Kawasaki, a short walk from Keikyu Kawasaki Station. Find it on the 1st floor of the Chambord Building.
• Reservations: Essential. The restaurant is small and often fully booked, so reserve well in advance.
• Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
• Atmosphere: The room is small and smoking is permitted, so it can get very smoky. The restaurant is not considered child-friendly.
• Service: The owner's direct, old-school service style is a key part of the experience.
• Parking: Not available.