Gusto Kichijoji Minamicho

(⁴⁄₅ stars overall)
Unilocal 100 Challenge 2016 — ¹²⁄₁₀₀
It’s not often I review a place with less than a few visits, but as I have reviewed other locations in this family restaurant chain, this one deserves special mention. Why? Considering the menu offerings tend to be nearly identical regardless of location, what else would influence the rating?
Highlights:
— Access/​location: 3.5+/5 stars ((4 stars if you’re coming by car); located about ten minutes walk from JR Kichijoji station — it’s a bit of a hike; there is another Gusto 30 seconds from the north exit if you prefer convenience. In this case, the distance is actually an advantage if you want to relax and enjoy your meal)
— Menu: 3.5÷5 (consistent, similar to other locations)
— Service: ⁴⁄₅ (staff here are friendlier than at locations with higher customer turnover; YMMV, of course)
— Atmosphere: 4.5÷5 (feels spacious, clean, peacefully quiet, nicely lit and comfy. This location has a lot more wood used in the interior decoration and design, so it feels more like a living room than a low budget dining hall)
This is great place to chill and nomad (do mobile work), like now as I write this Review. The staff don’t harass you as long as you don’t sleep or camp out for hours but only order a drink bar. You can be assured of value in the menu and comfort in the interior and setting. Despite it being Kichijoji, the residential neighborhood and distance from the station keep all the noisy kids away (which is a good thing).
Note: Good access and plenty of free parking under the restaurant (it’s elevated above the parking area). Location is right off Itsukaichi Highway, shortly after passing under the JR line heading east.