Myojinmaru Straw-Grilled Bonito Fish

🐟【Myojinmaru Okayama Honmachi｜A Taste of Kochi's Sea and Fire in Every Bite】 During my visit to Okayama, I chose to dine at "Myojinmaru," a famous straw-grilled bonito fish specialty restaurant originating from Kochi. Located about a 5-minute walk from Okayama Station, the restaurant is not very large but has a charming decor that immediately draws you in with its enticing aroma even before you start eating. The staff inside the restaurant are numerous and very attentive, providing friendly and proactive service. As soon as you're seated, someone introduces the menu and recommends dishes. The most memorable dish is their signature "straw-grilled bonito fish." Before serving, you can watch the chef grab a handful of straw, ignite it, and grill the fish, with the sizzling sound and smoke instantly whetting your appetite. The fish has a crispy, smoky exterior while remaining tender and fresh inside, offering a distinct dual-layered texture. We tried both the salted and soy sauce versions, and personally, I preferred the simple salted seasoning, which highlights the natural sweetness of the fish. The pairing of Kochi local sake was also excellent, such as yuzu sake and rice shochu, which are refreshing and perfectly complement the grilled dishes. Other menu items like Tosa-style tempura, stir-fried vegetables, and handmade tofu were all delicately seasoned and portioned just right, avoiding the overly heavy or greasy flavors typical of some izakayas. The overall pricing is quite reasonable, making the meal feel well worth it. What left the deepest impression was the manager bringing out a full-scale bonito fish model while serving the dish, sharing stories about Myojinmaru's fishing family background and the origin of their fishing boat's name. Although it's a tourist dining experience, this added cultural introduction made the meal feel more immersive and experiential. Overall, this is an izakaya that combines local ingredients, heartfelt service, and cultural storytelling. Highly recommended for travelers looking for something unique without risking disappointment.