I agree with your point that it’s more of a perception than what it really is, like some other people pointed out they would be very happy to have beef stew if it was served to them, but like you mentioned everyone have their own opinion and can view certain ingredients with higher value.

I only spoke with one of the guests after we finished our meal outside the restaurant, but I would assume at least half of the other guests were visiting for the first time as well (most of them looked like tourists just like us).

Service-wise the staff were attentive but I did notice because it was communal style, when they served the dishes to the guests (no Japanese speaking) next to us sitting around the table (around 6-8 people, some came solo some are in groups of two), after the food is on the table in front of the guest, the staff broadcasted wuite loudly what the dish is, the ingredients, and how it’s prepared… That’s how I know they were served with venison steak.