Reader’s Question: I’m going to Hiroshima, but I don’t have much time and would like to try various things at once (like Hiroshima’s famous oysters). Some well-known okonomiyaki restaurants only serve okonomiyaki and teppanyaki, while oyster restaurants may not have
okonomiyaki. If you know of a delicious izakaya that offers both okonomiyaki and other famous Hiroshima dishes, please let me know.
Hunting for Hiroshima’s Culinary Delights: A Quest for Okonomiyaki and Oysters
Ah, Hiroshima. When most people think of this city, they often think of its turbulent history and the Peace Memorial Park, which is undoubtedly significant. But let me tell you, there’s another side to Hiroshima: the food! I recently found myself in this beautiful city with only a short time to explore, and I was on a mission—not just to see the sights but to taste everything my taste buds could handle. Naturally, my cravings led me to Hiroshima’s famous oysters and, of course, the iconic okonomiyaki. But here’s the kicker: most places either focused on one or the other. How could I possibly satisfy my culinary curiosity in such limited time?
After some digging online and consulting with a few locals—let’s be real, chatting with the locals is where the real magic happens—I stumbled upon an izakaya that I absolutely had to try: Hiroshima Kawaii Kushi Udon. Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Kushi Udon? What does that even mean?” Well, my friends, allow me to explain. This delightful little spot specializes in various Hiroshima dishes and has a menu that showcases both the beloved okonomiyaki and fresh, succulent oysters. Talk about a win-win!
The Ambiance: Casual and Cozy
When I finally made it to Hiroshima Kawaii Kushi Udon, I was greeted with the warm, inviting scents of grilled food wafting through the air. It had an authentic izakaya vibe—think dim lighting, wooden tables, and a friendly atmosphere. The staff was incredibly welcoming, urging me to take a seat at the bar where I could watch the chefs work their magic. There’s something mesmerizing about watching food being prepared right in front of you. It’s like a live performance, and I was front row!
The place was buzzing with a mix of locals and tourists, a good sign that this place was doing something right. I could hear lively conversations, laughter, and clinking glasses all around. It felt like I had just stepped into a hidden gem, a place where people came to unwind and enjoy the best of Hiroshima’s culinary offerings.
A Feast for the Senses: Ordering My Heart Out
Now came the tough part: what to order. I knew I had to try their okonomiyaki first. If you’ve never had this savory Japanese pancake, let me tell you—it’s more than just food; it’s an experience! The way they prepare it can vary from region to region, but Hiroshima has its own twist, layering the ingredients rather than mixing them all together. I could already picture the layers of cabbage, noodles, and that delicious crispy bottom layer. Yum!
With a quick recommendation from the friendly waitress, I ordered the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki with extra oysters. Yes, you heard that right! Why not go all out, right? As I waited, I chatted with a couple sitting next to me. They were on their first trip to Japan and were just as excited as I was about the food. It’s funny how sharing a meal can bring people together, isn’t it?
The Moment of Truth: First Bite
When my okonomiyaki finally arrived, it was a sight to behold—golden-brown, steaming hot, and topped off with a drizzle of savory sauce and a sprinkle of bonito flakes. I felt like I could hear it calling my name! The moment I took my first bite, my taste buds were dancing. The combination of flavors was absolutely mind-blowing: the crispiness of the pancake, the richness of the oysters, and that umami flavor from the sauce. Seriously, it felt like a little party in my mouth. I couldn’t help but let out a little “Mmm!” which made the staff chuckle. The oysters were fresh and juicy, perfectly complementing the overall texture and taste.
But I wasn’t done yet! I had set my sights on trying the grilled oysters, too. The waitress recommended these as well. I mean, when in Hiroshima, right? Each oyster was grilled to perfection, slightly smoky with a hint of char. They were served with a wedge of lemon, and I could hardly contain my excitement. I squeezed the lemon juice onto the oyster and popped it into my mouth. Oh. My. Goodness. It was like a taste of the ocean! Plump, tender, and bursting with flavor. I might have actually closed my eyes in sheer bliss. I know; not the most elegant of moments, but hey, when a food experience is that good, who can blame me?
Sharing the Experience
As I savored these dishes, I couldn’t help but think about how food brings people together. The couple beside me joined in on the oyster feast, and we all began sharing our thoughts about the food, travel, and our experiences in Japan. They were raving about how Hiroshima was such a welcoming place, and I couldn’t agree more. It felt like everyone was in on this secret about how amazing the food was here.
We even ended up sharing a couple of drinks—a local sake that the restaurant offered. It was smooth and delightful, perfectly complementing the food. It’s moments like these that remind you of the beauty of travel: the spontaneity, the new friendships formed over shared meals, and the unforgettable flavors that linger long after the trip is over.
Wrapping Up the Evening
As the evening wound down, I found myself feeling satisfied in more ways than one. Not only had I indulged in some of Hiroshima’s best cuisine, but I had also connected with fellow travelers, shared laughs, and experienced a sense of belonging in a city that was once foreign to me.
Before heading out, I couldn’t resist ordering a couple of their signature desserts. I mean, why stop now? A matcha parfait and some sweet red bean mochi later, my stomach was officially protesting, but my heart was full. I felt like I had truly experienced the culinary heart of Hiroshima. Honestly, I would’ve stayed longer if I could! But with a heart full of memories and a belly full of delicious food, I made my way back to my hotel, already planning my next culinary adventure.
Final Thoughts
If you find yourself in Hiroshima with a limited time to explore, make sure to carve out a few hours to visit Hiroshima Kawaii Kushi Udon. You won’t just get to enjoy the best of okonomiyaki and fresh oysters, but you’ll also immerse yourself in the local culture, meet some amazing people, and create unforgettable memories. And trust me, that’s worth its weight in gold. Until next time, Hiroshima! I’ll be dreaming of your okonomiyaki and oysters long after I leave.
