Banya/Yasuda
Anago no kabayaki jyu (1,500 yen)
The sauce and the sweetness of the conger eel are exquisite. The rice with the sauce is also excellent. In Tokyo, it would cost 2,500 yen.
NON is a stylish hidden café located in Futtsu City, Chiba Prefecture. The interior design is exceptionally tasteful, and the calm atmosphere inside is inviting. The dishes and carefully crafted sweets, made with local ingredients, offer a delicate flavor with a moderate sweetness.
It is always crowded, but the staff guides you efficiently, so you can feel at ease. The tatami seating is spacious, allowing families with small children to relax. The sashimi included in the luxurious meal was all incredibly fresh, and the sweetness of the fish was distinctly noticeable. The fugu skin served with ponzu sauce is surprisingly tender, with a chewy texture that is addictive. In the evening, there is a wide variety of hot pot dishes and secret menu items, making it fun to enjoy a range of flavors, such as negima hot pot and mackerel dumpling hot pot. When you order various dishes to share with friends, the table fills up with seafood one after another, naturally sparking lively conversation.
It was my first time using autoreserve, but my reservation was confirmed right away. The shop is located along the highway but is not very noticeable. However, the husband and wife seem very sincere, and although the dishes are not stylish, they are all delicious. Furthermore, the cost performance at the time of payment was surprisingly good. Overall, it was impressively good.
It's easy to get to from the station. The menu is centered around seasonal ingredients, and it's fun to encounter different flavors at different times. When I asked for the chef's recommendation, I was excited as various suggestions kept coming out. There were many seafood items from Tokyo Bay, and I was particularly impressed by the sea urchin, nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch), kuromutsu (black mackerel), horse mackerel, and striped jack. The lightly grilled dishes and tempura were also fragrant and all very delicious. I enjoyed them with sake and was satisfied all the way to the final soup and ice cream.
A hidden pizzeria where you can savor local ingredients
Pizzagonzo is an enticing establishment that specializes in Neapolitan-style pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven using fresh ingredients sourced from Tokyo Bay and local Bōsō stone. The monthly rotating pizzas highlight seasonal ingredients, allowing you to enjoy new flavors with each visit. The pet-friendly interior exudes a warm atmosphere, making it a comfortable place to relax, complemented by the friendly service from the staff. This is a must-visit spot for those seeking new discoveries in the area.
A Health-Conscious Eatery that Highlights the Umami of Fermentation
This branch of a well-regarded koji cuisine specialty restaurant in Minamiboso boasts convenient access and ample parking. Guests can enjoy fluffy rice cooked in a traditional earthen pot, accompanied by a selection of side dishes and pickles, ensuring a delightful experience from start to finish. The diverse dishes featuring fish, meat, and vegetables enhanced with shio-koji (salted rice malt) and amazake (sweet rice drink) change with the seasons, showcasing a striking contrast between the deep umami of fermentation and a light texture. This establishment has garnered support from a wide range of health-conscious diners who appreciate the opportunity to savor nourishing meals in a relaxed atmosphere.
A hidden seafood restaurant where you can savor fresh local fish
Yunagi is a highly regarded establishment where you can enjoy seafood dishes made with fresh local fish. Although it takes time for the master to carefully prepare each dish, the quality of the food makes it worthwhile. In addition to sashimi and sushi, the diverse menu includes simmered dishes and fried options, adding to its appeal. Each visit offers a chance to savor the deliciousness of different local fish, making it a must-visit spot for seafood lovers.
As I run along the mountain path, a building with a mushroom pattern suddenly appears, filling me with excitement. Passing through the driftwood gate, a calming space unfolds, featuring an old-fashioned stove that evokes nostalgia. Fresh greenery sways outside the window, and dappled sunlight streams in, making me feel as if I've entered another world. The handmade soba noodles are richly aromatic and have a firm texture, sliding down my throat with a delightful taste. The curry nanban and the broth of the nabe-yaki udon are deeply flavorful, making me want to drink them all. The combination of the tranquility of the mountain village and the simple dishes relaxed my mind, and I left the restaurant completely satisfied.