sam heart travel

Tokyo 2025 - Day 7: Sukiya and Harajuku Adventures!   Day 7 in Tokyo dawned, and our group faced a split decision. Kuya and Ate were off to meet a student in Shibuya, leaving Mader Earth, Badets, and me to conquer Harajuku's Onitsuka Tiger stores. The morning unfolded in our usual relaxed rhythm: a leisurely breakfast, a refreshing bath, and the all-important OOTD (Outfit Of The Day) selection. Kuya and the others zoomed off first, leaving us to follow at our own pace.   Our stomachs rumbling, we knew a hearty lunch was essential before tackling the Harajuku streets. Badets, ever the resourceful one, had spotted a gem near Senkawa Station: Sukiya. This wasn't your average hole-in-the-wall; it was a delightful blend of quaint charm and high-tech efficiency. Imagine this: a cozy, intimate space run by a single cashier who also acted as the server, creating a personal touch. But here's the twist – the ordering process was entirely digital! Each t...

Sukiya in SM Megamall: A Long Wait for a So-So Meal   Let's be honest, sometimes you just crave a quick, affordable Japanese meal. Sukiya in SM Megamall often fits the bill, at least in theory. The reality, however, is a bit more complicated. I recently braved the notoriously long queue (a testament to its popularity, I guess?), and while my solo status snagged me a seat relatively quickly, the experience wasn't exactly a culinary highlight.   The atmosphere was, shall we say, less than ideal. The restaurant felt a bit hot and surprisingly oily – not exactly the ambiance you'd expect from a place serving Japanese food. I ordered the Fiery Garlic Yakiniku Bowl, a yakisoba on the side, and their signature matcha latte. The wait was a significant drawback; I clocked at least fifteen minutes before my food arrived. Fifteen minutes for a bowl of yakiniku and some noodles. That's a long time to sit in a slightly oily, warm room.   Now, let...