The first time I ate in a tatami room was, surprisingly, not in Japan, but in Santa Clara! My friends had sent some delicious looking photos of sashimi and when I asked where it was from, they kept it a secret so I wouldn’t go without them! After some research and looking at photos online compared to the ones they sent me, I concluded that they got it at Rantei Japanese Cuisine – and I was right! My friend (the same friend – don’t worry, I didn’t go without them) called to make a reservation, and when we arrived, we were seated in a tatami room! I was always so curious about these rooms. How do you sit on the floor and eat?
Before stepping up into the room, we took off our shoes. There was a seat cushion for each person on top of the carpeted floor. The table was low, and to my surprise, the floor beneath the table was even lower so we can put our legs inside! I’ve always seen people sit with their legs crossed or in a kneeling position when eating in a tatami room, so it was definitely cool to learn you can put your legs under the table too.
We ordered the Omakase Sashimi, Kaisen Don, and Chirashi Don Deluxe and each person also got a bowl of miso soup with their order, ginger and wasabi, and tea. The wasabi tasted so fresh and delicious! While the Omkase Sashimi was really good, next time I go back, I would definitely want to order the Chirashi Don Deluxe for myself.
I can’t wait for the next food adventure!