Nearest the main stage we find 328 (San-nippa), the MRO incarnation of the popular Nishi-Azabu club, serving up a simple menu of rock-and-roll fare including Chinese-style yakisoba, franks and dogs, Chicken Noodles and a full selection of drinks.
Next door is sister-bar MIX, popular home to "Musique and Art," offering Taco Rice, "Tomato Kimchee Risotto," as well as that local favorite non-beer beverage, Zima.
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But the longest lines in the place form in front of Queen Sheba. This popular restaurant is a regular favorite at events like this, and stands out with well-prepared ethnic dishes and organic wine. The "Ethnic Gyuu-don" (beef bowl) is of course good, but takes second place after their excellent beef curry with omelet. A staff of 10 or more works at a frenetic pace trying to keep up with the endless orders that pour in, but do so nonetheless with an systematic ease that is frankly impressive to watch.
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Sandwiched between Queen Sheba and Mix is "Asagiri Jam," another regular at Smash events and home to what must be the oddest menu in the room. Assuring waiting customers that "It's a beautiful day," Asagiri serves up yakisoba, "Asagiri stew," and a unique blend of Shochu and milk.
Along the other wall of the main event space we see Cafe Life, an Azabu-Juban bar and restaurant under the direction today of the self-described "King of Azabu-Juban." He keeps his staff of 8 in a state of constant excitement and revelry, chanting and shouting and pouring tequila down the throats of unsuspecting revelers. Magic Rock Out is their first Smash event, and they seem to having a ball. (And their curry is damn good, too...)
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Finally we have Hirayama and the Heinekin booths, well-stocked with frothy suds and apparently doing good business.
In short, there is something for everyone, as long as you like you late-night fare tasty, hot, and served in paper plates and bowls. Speaking of which, I'm hungry again. Chow!
