Its all about soul

It was 8 pm in the evening; I was riding a bus home from my office.  I was getting hungry and craved for a nice, authentic Japanese food.  I knew exactly where to go – I’ve been there many times, either by myself or with my family.  This restaurant has always been very cozy, with a bunch of loyal returning customers, accumulated since its start more than 17 years ago.  2 middle age ladies have been working there since then, as waitresses and order takers.  One of them is married to the chef.  They never talk too much to their customers, but the food never fails to delight me.  The most authentic Japanese food in Singapore, I always said.  I think all returning customers who often queue to get a seat also share my view.

So as my bus neared the stop where the restaurant is, I decided to rush to the bus door and alight.  I have noticed over the last 1 year or so that this restaurant has changed its façade.  A massive renovation took place, slick furniture was being put in to replace the old ones.  The rather ordinary front entrance was replaced by all-glass wall.  They retain the name of the restaurant, but created a big signboard to replace the old tiny one.  Most interestingly, there is now a valet service for those who drive their vehicles to the restaurant.  In short, this restaurant has been infused with a big dose of “luxury”.

So I got in – oblivious to all of this fancy stuff.  I just wanted my favorite Yakitori, Salmon Sashimi and Sake.  But as I entered I noticed something very different.  Only one of the 2 old ladies was there.  There were 4 waitresses instead of only those 2.  There was obviously a new manager as she wore a different uniform and eagerly greeted me.  She brought me to my table, immediately asked if I want to have a beer.   I saw the old waitress standing rather quiet at the back.  Something is amiss, I thought. I also noticed I was the only other customer there – but I thought it maybe because it was not a weekend.

At the end of the meal I was asked by the manager – how was my food.  I said I don’t like how the yakitori tasted – it feels like a fake Japanese food, tasteless and rather under-cooked.  It was so bad I couldn’t even touch the second one.  I don’t like the salmon sashimi – it feels they cut corners on the meat.  The manager was quick to apologize and rushed back to the cashier to give me a discount.  But the damage has been done – the restaurant did not feel the same anymore. 

The old lady came to me, bringing the bill and apologizing.  I said “I really don’t understand what has happened to your restaurant – the food quality has gone really down”.  She nodded her head and said “yes, a new owner is here.  My sister and her husband (the chef) have been asked to leave.  I am the only one here – and today is my last day.  Many of old customers like you have also complained”. 

I said – “oh – that’s a pity….”.  She said with a rather sad smile “yes, after 17 years…..”. 

So as I walked back to the bus station to make my way home, I realized I have just witnessed a sad example of how good reputation built over 17 years can be tarnished in just one day.  

It is a very good reminder: good things are created with soul.  No amount of money, luxury or style can replace it.