"Of course, there's no problem with that. A restaurant with such potential deserves more recognition."
Anton Shingo laughed heartily and readily agreed.
The surrounding chefs, upon hearing this, couldn't hide the envy on their faces. This would certainly elevate the restaurant's reputation.
"Mr. Anton, about the column we discussed earlier…"
Shiratsu Kotaro could no longer contain himself and spoke up.
"Oh, I'm terribly sorry," Anton responded apologetically. "I've decided to feature 'Shunkatei' in my next column, Mr. Shiratsu. I'll certainly write about you when the opportunity arises."
"Really? Haha, that's a shame," Shiratsu Kotaro chuckled, though deep down, he knew his chance was gone. The thought that two youngsters had snatched his opportunity left him dissatisfied, but he masked it with a forced smile, which only added to his frustration.
"By the way, you were the second seat last year, weren't you?"
Anton suddenly recognized Sonoka and couldn't help but speak up.
He often served as a judge for various events at Totsuki, so he was quite familiar with the students. It didn't take him long to realize that the girl before him was the second seat of the previous class's Elite Ten Council.
"Yes, I'm Sonoka Kikuchi," she responded with a gentle smile.
"Really? So 'Shunkatei' is your restaurant?" Anton Shingo asked, visibly more intrigued.
"That's right," Sonoka confirmed, then pulled Sui over, introducing him with a slight familiarity. "This is my sous-chef, Sui-kun. He's the one who made the dish earlier."
"He made it?"
Anton was taken aback. He had assumed the dish was prepared by Sonoka herself, but to learn it was made by Sui left him surprised.
"Yes, Sui-kun is very talented!" Sonoka said sweetly.
"Amazing!" Anton sincerely praised Sui. Judging by his age, Sui was probably only a first or second-year student. "Rest assured, I'll make a special recommendation for 'Shunkatei' in my upcoming column."
As soon as Anton left, Sonoka happily embraced Sui. "That's wonderful, Sui-kun!" she exclaimed.
At that moment, Sui became acutely aware of what it meant to experience the warmth of a real embrace. Her… well-endowed chest pressed against him with surprising elasticity.
When Sonoka let go, she noticed the odd expression on Sui's face. Her face turned crimson as she realized what had happened.
"Sui-kun, I'm so sorry!" she stammered, covering her face in embarrassment.
"It's fine," Sui replied with a slight cough, attempting to keep his composure.
Although Sonoka was two or three years older than him, her simple and approachable personality made her feel more like a friend. Yet, at times, Sui also sensed a sisterly warmth from her.
As the event continued, Sui and Sonoka became two of the party's brightest stars. Sui's dish, a Crispy Fried Duck Wrapped in Taro, was a hit among the guests, and Sonoka's dishes were also immensely popular. Their counters were surrounded by guests eager to taste their food.
Considering Sonoka was the second seat of the previous year, it was only natural that her culinary skills were not far behind Sui's. In fact, Sui estimated that her abilities might even surpass those of the current second seat, Kobayashi Rindo. However, she still had a gap to close before reaching the level of the first seat, Eishi Tsukasa.
After all, Eishi Tsukasa was one of the most talented chefs in Totsuki's history.
"This dish is fantastic! The chicken slices wrap around the banana, and then it's deep-fried to perfection. The chewiness of the chicken and the softness and sweetness of the banana are a great combination," Kita Shuji remarked, thoroughly impressed.
*
The dish in question was Sonoka's Fried Banana Chicken Roll. She had marinated the chicken, cut it into thin slices, and wrapped it around fresh banana, coating it in egg and breadcrumbs before deep-frying it. The result was a delightful fusion of sweet and savory, with a creative twist.
"Thank you for the kind words," Sonoka responded with a slight smile, clearly pleased that her dish was being so well received.
"I'd love for 'Shunkatei' to cater for the Kita Club. What do you think?" Kita Shuji asked, extending an offer.
The Kita Club, exclusive to the rich and influential, was known for serving only the finest delicacies.
But before Sonoka could respond, other guests chimed in.
"We'd also like 'Shunkatei' to cater for our company's internal event tomorrow. Would that be possible?"
"Our president is hosting a banquet for an important guest in three days. It's critical for our company's performance this year. Could 'Shunkatei' be the chef for that banquet?"
"And we would…"
The flood of invitations left the nearby chefs green with envy. Shiratsu Kotaro, in particular, looked displeased as he stood by his kitchen counter, with only a few customers in front of him. It was humiliating.
Overwhelmed by the sudden barrage of offers, Sonoka glanced at Sui, seeking his guidance.
Those who noticed were surprised. Sonoka was the Head Chef of 'Shunkatei' and had once been the second seat of the Elite Ten. Could it be that this young man was the real decision-maker behind the scenes?
Sui stepped forward, clearing his throat. "Everyone, please settle down. If you're interested in working with 'Shunkatei', please leave your business cards, and we'll get back to each of you individually."
Reluctant as they were to wait, the guests complied, leaving their cards behind before dispersing.
Once the crowd had thinned, Sonoka let out a sigh of relief. She tugged on Sui's sleeve, whispering, "I was so nervous. They were all so eager, and I didn't know how to refuse."
"Sonoka-senpai, you need to be brave and handle this on your own," Sui said with an unusually serious tone. "What will you do when I'm no longer around?"
Sonoka froze, staring at Sui in surprise. But soon, her expression hardened with resolve. "You're right. I'll do my best!"
Just then, a clear voice rang out. "You must be the one my sister likes, aren't you?"
A blonde woman in a lavish robe approached them.