Clever Dripper and VIP Burger @ Ottimo Ashiya-machi (Fukuoka)

Before you knew it, the plum season had arrived.



Narcissus had also started to bloom.



Now, it's time to get moving.



So, I headed to "Ottimo" in Ashiya-machi a bit early for lunchtime.



Craving a hearty coffee, I ordered the VIP Burger and Ottimo Coffee.

A "Clever Dripper" was brought with hot water poured into the coffee grounds, an hourglass, and a mug separately placed on a tray.

Watching the sand grains slowly fall in the hourglass is a nice way to zone out.

Pouring a bit of hot water into the paper drip coffee grounds, waiting for them to swell and steam, and then pouring water slowly – that's the moment.

Also, discerning the convection movement in the French press, timing the plunge – the Clever Dripper replaces these "waiting times" with an hourglass, creating a unique tension.

Gently placing the "Clever Dripper" on top of the mug, the lower structure is manipulated to release the extraction outlet, and the drip begins.

And just as the mug is filled with ample coffee, the VIP Burger makes its grand entrance!

The photo doesn't capture the actual size, but it's about the size of a face.

Last time, I tackled it with both hands, biting into it straightforwardly.

This time, using some diminished learning ability, I employed strategic weapons: a knife and fork, and chopsticks.

I relievedly realized I had managed to eat it cleanly, but the lack of a triumphant feeling after the battle and the darkness settling in left an indescribable feeling.

Lesson learned – burgers are meant to be tackled with both hands and your face covered in sauce.

Spring is just around the corner! 🌸