Merchants of Osaka

     "Samurai, carpenters, farmers, merchants--these were the four trades of old Edo," my Eating Out Club tomodachi (friend) told me during our monthly get-together. As she spoke, she lowered her hand from top to bottom: Merchants, the lowest rung on this ladder, describes the likes of those who hail from Osaka. How off-putting to prim Tokyoites that the first question from an Osakan is always: "How is business?"  They are also known for engaging strangers in conversation while queuing, walking on the righthand side of the road and impatiently crossing the street before the light turns green. They are always so busy they may even eat on the run. (In other words, they behave like New Yorkers.)

     No one at the corner table in this French eatery in Minami Ebisu, the oddly named De Roanne, had any links with Osaka. The amuse-bouche from Chef Okamoto (pureed cauliflower in a goblet) set off the chorus of oishii (delicious) that mark every ladies' luncheon in town. Western size portions did not daunt these experienced luncheon mates, who keep their figures by only sipping cabbage soup at dinner. The most senior tomodachi, a contemporary of Ono Yoko,  never allows food to pass her lips after 5 PM. "This restaurant never disappoints," said tomodachi. "Save room for dessert!" Rather than the typical delicate scoop of ice cream with one twig of a cookie on top, Chef Okamoto allows diners to taste each of the eight items on offer. (Most memorable was the grapefruit tart.)

     Over the dessert course two Eating Out Club members confessed that they were fans of the Kiefer Sutherland series 24. "We Japanese can learn from that show," tomodachi said. "It's important to be able to use your judgement to make quick decisions. Nowadays Japanese tend to drag out the  process...." Everyone at the table wondered how Prime Minister Hatoyama will resolve the current stand-off with the USA on the subject of Futenma base. Only the senior tomodachi expressed compassion for the prime minister's quandary. By the time of our next luncheon in May, Hatoyama will have to make a move. Bellies full, coats on and umbrellas at the ready. Gochisosama!