a NOLA girl in a Big world

Day 1 in Tokyo did NOT disappoint. There were no plans for the day, other than to wander. So, wander we did.

It was a slow start to the morning. And due to a +24 hour travel day before – I have no idea where Sunday went. Because when I woke up, it was Monday.

We decided to eat breakfast at the hotel … I know, such a rookie move. But it was needed to regroup and discuss the “non existent” plan for the day.

And lo and behold, as I sit down to eat my eggs and seaweed, I look up and see my first friend I made in high school, Aubrey Howard. Sitting, eating breakfast, staying at the same hotel, IN TOKYO. We haven’t seen each other since 2005/2006. The odds of being at the same hotel, half way around the world is serendipitous. We chatted a bit, we planned to get together before she leaves, she’s here for work.

It was such a treat and a great remember that we always end up where we’re meant to be.

We then set out on our wandering expedition. Taking lefts on random streets. Rights down alley ways. Tokyo is overwhelming, in the BEST WAY. So many stores. So many things to see. So much time on feet. (We are here to run a marathon, after all)

We ended up walking to Yoyogi Park. It was extremely pleasant. We stumbled upon a traditional Japanese wedding. We made an offering at the Meiji Shrine – my offering was for “victory and perseverance.” Let’s see what this offering and the universe has in store for me this coming Sunday.

---

Naturally, the only thing to do post nature walking was SHOP. I found a dope pair of shoes at GR8 and walked into so many stores, I’m surprised I didn’t walk out with multiple bags. But it was only day 1.

We then made our way to Cafe Capyba, to pet the capybara’s. It was full. We didn’t pet them.

Starting the day at 7am, called for a bit of a break and reset, in order to head to the west side of Tokyo.

---

Prior to coming to Tokyo, I asked my friend Paul, who is a Tokyo PRO, to set us up with some restaurant recommendations. Not only did he make recommendations, but he and his team went above and behind and booked our reservations for us. He’s the best of us.

Tonight. Thanks to Paul. I had the best meal of my life. Period.

If you know me, you know I strongly dislike mushrooms and I don’t really eat meat, especially not steak. So, when I learned that Paul had booked us at a Tokyo Steakhouse, I was less than thrilled. However, I am always down for an experience and I knew it wouldn’t be “just” a dinner, so I would eat the veggies and pick up something from a 7/11 after. But there was no need. I was full.

While I can’t say I LIKE mushrooms now, what I can say is, I will eat steak again … but ONLY in Tokyo, Japan and ONLY at TOKUYOSHI. It was insane. The entire meal was impeccable. The salad. The fish. The tomatoes. The tuna. The veggies. The Abalone. The ice cream. The wine. And the CHEF. He was truly wonderful. His place is special. He only serves 4 groups a night. This 7 course meal and experience was worth coming to Tokyo.

I am going to bed with a full and happy heart and stomach.

I thanked Paul for the amazing evening and his response, “it only gets better from here.” And if that’s the case, Tokyo and I, will be just fine.