A review by fletcherflute
The Restaurant of Love Regained by Ito Ogawa

5.0

Probably 4.5-

This was ABSOLUTELY delightful and heartwarming. Ogawa addresses grief in such an interesting and complicated way, and explores the complexity of familial relationships.

If you liked Legends and Lattes, I think this is an unexpected read alike. The story follows a young woman who moves home to her somewhat estranged mother’s house and starts a gourmet restaurant. It’s not fantasy, but there is a hint of magical realism.

There is an aspect of the ending that was a bit bizarre and uncomfortable, but I also could see the beauty in it and what the author was trying to convey. It was unsettling at first, but I saw where she was going.

The letter at the end really wrecked me too. So poignant, but it didn’t feel trite or manipulative. This one is really great.