Hirasawa Kamaboko

A standing room only Oden specialty Izakaya in Oji.
An expert of Oji district, in Kita Ward of Tokyo, took me to this place.
So here is the thing. Mastering this place take a bit of work. However, once you learn how to use this place, then you can start blending in with the locals and you have immersed yourself in the Japanese community. How cool is that? So, if you care to learn about Japanese culture and do the things that Japanese people do, then take the extra effort to try this place.
Would I recommend Hirasawa Kamaboko to foreigners that cannot speak Japanese?
Many would likely say no, but I really think it is worth a trying.
Okay, so you need to understand some house rules.
1. If you come here alone, you pay as you order. Cash bar. However, for 2 or more people, you get the bill at the end.
2. The worker here will tell you where to stand. They will shift you inside here like Tetris. Do not get angry when he asks you to move.
3. It is not one of those place where you hunker in for over an hour. You order, you eat, you drink, and you go. You are allowed to chat and enjoy your drinks, but don’t expect to be in here for hours.
4. Do not expect the workers to understand English. I doubt that they have English menu. Most of all, don’t be asking «what is this?» It is challenging even for me to explain in English what some of these items are. In general, many of the items are pureed fish meat. The restaurant name has the word «Kamaboko», which is this pureed fish meat. It is a historical method of preserving fish. The only twist here is that Kamaboko you are used to seeing is white or white with pink. For Oden, they deep fry them and then soak it in the Oden broth for hours.
Will my tips get you though your first experience at Hirasawa Kamaboko? I am not sure. Enjoy your adventure.
COST: About 1500 Yen.
SMOKING: Allowed. Someone next to you might start puffing away.