The word kappou ( 割烹 ) came up today as we were discussing Mizuki’s high school job at a sushi restaurant… or rather “sushi kappou” as she put it. When I asked her what it meant, she couldn’t really define it. A Google search in English brought up “casual restaurant“, but that didn’t really sound right to her either.
So what’s a kappou?
Apparently, the kappou is a traditional Japanese establishment where the owner/cook is visible from the counter or tables, and can interact with the customers. A sushi kappou is pretty much what we call a sushi bar in the west. While this is indeed more casual than the fancy ryoutei (料亭) restaurants for example, we are still a step above the izakaya drinking establishments or “family restaurants”, which I consider to be casual.
I was also surprised to learn that sushi restaurants (or kappou) also serve nabe or tempura, especially for large parties such as an enkai (office party). I guess I never bothered to read past the sushi section of the menu!
I appreciate that you explained in the west, a sushi kappou is essentially the same as a sushi bar. My best friend is looking for some info about the taste of sushi, maybe we should try it to know the taste well. I appreciate that you helped me learn more about Japanese restaurants.