Sometimes I have the chance to research and plan for a really good lunch. A bit of time on the internet, an address and possibly a reservation, and I'm set for what I always hope is a good meal.
And then sometimes, I let my cranky toddler choose the eatery of the day. Because on those days, a quick lunch is FAR more important than a well-thought-out lunch.Yet every now and again, those unplanned choices can introduce you to something worthwhile.
On a recent day, my two-year-old's spur of the moment restaurant selection saw us climbing the steps to feal, a tiny 2nd floor cafe a block off of the Kamitori shopping arcade. The interior was a sunny orange, with plenty of sunlight streaming through the window that runs the entire length of the cafe. I should have scored us seats at the window, as those coveted spots have an unobstructed view of Kumamoto Castle perched on the hill. Instead, we settled ourselves at a table and perused the handy picture menu.
feal's lunch menu has some substantial plates, like a hearty-looking meat pie and a shrimp and arugala pasta. I opted for the curry (a kid favorite) and was pleased by the light spice and generous portion, though the slightly cold eggplant on top was a bit of a disappointment. The lunch set also includes a soup and salad, decent but nothing terribly memorable, and a choice of drinks as well (the usual suspects - coffee or tea, mostly).
While our lunch was good, feal really shines in its dessert selections. If you're looking for something on the lighter side, aim for the chocolate parfait or baked cheesecake, though even these portions are larger than the standard Japanese dessert. If you've brought your appetite, however, be sure to order one of the "breakfast-themed" desserts. You can have a stack of pancakes topped with either strawberries or caramel and bananas or French toast with chocolate sauce and powdered sugar. The portions are massive - consider yourself warned.
The cafe is open all day, from 11:30am-11pm, and until 1am on the weekends.
