Pole Pole

The name, pronounced “poh-lay poh-lay”, is Swahili for “moving slow” – and a most accurate description of this bijou, one-woman-operated bistro located just off Watanabedori, barely a kilometer south of Tenjin Station. But don’t expect exotic African cuisine, as the only indication of owner-chef Miyuki Nakamura’s passion for Africa is an occasional giraffe motif. The interior is a cozy collection of handmade wooden furnishings from post-war coffee shops. There are only three tables and a counter for eight overlooking the open kitchen from where Nakamura cooks, serves and entertains. Don’t bother asking for the menu, because there isn’t one. Instead, call ahead and ask what’s on the stove. As a rule, Nakamura serves a daily set dinner, including an appetizer, main dish, side dish or salad, and dessert – all made fresh with seasonal ingredients until 9 pm. After that she accepts -la-carte orders for dishes including perennial favorites such as her uniquely seasoned crispy Pole Pole Chicken. Customers are encouraged to select their own wine from the rack, and even open it as well. It’s another touch that makes dinner here feel more like a visit to a friend’s house. Pole Pole isn’t French, African or Asian, it’s just tasty, personable and enjoyable. Nakamura enjoys speaking English, so don’t hesitate to call and ask: what’s cooking tonight?

Gochome Bldg. 1F, 5-16-5 Watanabedori, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka

092-732-5555