Reader’s Question: Please recommend a delicious seafood restaurant in Yonago City. My family is planning a trip to Kaike Onsen in mid-March, and we are looking to enjoy seafood and crab at a local izakaya or Japanese restaurant in the
evening. Please suggest some recommended places in Yonago City or around Kaike that can accommodate five adults!
Seafood Heaven in Yonago City: A Culinary Adventure Awaits!
Hey there, fellow travelers! If you’re like me, the mere thought of fresh seafood is enough to make your mouth water and your heart race. So, when my family decided to plan a trip to Kaike Onsen in mid-March, my mind immediately started racing through all the fantastic culinary options we could explore in the nearby Yonago City. Spoiler alert: We found some incredible seafood restaurants that I just have to share with you!
As we know, Japan is a food lover’s paradise, and the coastal areas are especially renowned for their seafood. The Sea of Japan is known for its bountiful offerings, and Yonago City is no exception. With its picturesque views and rich culinary traditions, this area is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts. Just thinking about the freshness of the crab and the variety of fish available had me counting down the days until our trip!
The Jewel of Kaike Onsen: Restaurant Kinosaki
Our first stop was a delightful little izakaya called Restaurant Kinosaki. Tucked away just a short walk from our ryokan, this cozy spot had everything we were looking for: a warm atmosphere, a friendly staff, and, of course, a menu brimming with local seafood delights. Walking in, I was immediately enveloped in the familiar and comforting smell of grilled fish paired with the inviting sounds of laughter and clinking glasses.
We ordered several dishes to share among the five of us. The highlight? Oh, the crab! We dove into a steaming hot pot of crab miso soup, and I think I might have actually shed a tear when I tasted that rich, umami flavor. It was like a warm hug in a bowl! If you visit, don’t skip the sashimi platter—it’s a feast for the eyes and the tummy! Freshly caught fish displayed like pieces of art; I felt guilty for even thinking about eating it, but the flavors were too irresistible.
One thing I loved about Kinosaki was the friendly vibe. The staff was super welcoming and even took the time to explain some of the dishes to us. Plus, we learned a little about the local fishing practices, which made the experience that much richer. They even had a special selection of sake that paired beautifully with our meal. Pro tip: Ask the staff for their recommendations; they know their stuff!
Crabby Delights at Kanikuzushi
Now, if you’re craving crab in particular, then Kanikuzushi is an absolute must! I mean, how could we resist a restaurant dedicated entirely to crab? Located a bit farther into Yonago City, this place is an institution for crab lovers. As we arrived, I couldn’t help but feel that excitement bubbling up inside me—this was going to be one memorable meal!
The interior had a rustic charm with wooden beams and tatami mats. The menu was extensive, giving us options ranging from crab sashimi to grilled crab legs. We decided to go all out and ordered a crab kaiseki—a traditional multi-course meal centered around crab. Let me tell you, it was an experience! Each dish was beautifully presented, showcasing the crab’s sweet and delicate flavors. I was surprised to find how each preparation brought out different notes of taste, from the creamy crab roe to the hearty crab curry!
But my absolute favorite was the crab nigiri. The rice was perfectly seasoned, and the crab was so fresh it practically melted in my mouth. I may have gone back for seconds—okay, maybe thirds. Who can blame me? The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement, and I could see other tables enjoying their own crab feasts. It felt like a community celebration of food, and we were lucky enough to be part of it.
Exploring Yonago City: Seafood Markets and Hidden Gems
Now, if you’re looking to explore more than just restaurants, make sure to check out the local seafood markets in Yonago City. My family and I decided to stroll through the Yonago Fish Market one morning, and oh boy, what a treat! The market was filled with locals and vendors enthusiastically showcasing their catches of the day. We sampled everything from fresh sashimi to grilled squid right off the grill—the flavors were a burst of oceanic goodness!
We even stumbled upon a charming little stall selling crab-flavored snacks. I felt like a kid in a candy store; I couldn’t resist trying the crab chips! It was a delightful blend of crunch and flavor that I never knew I needed. You never know what you’ll find in these local markets, and I highly recommend spending a few hours exploring. It’s all part of the adventure!
Don’t Forget the Sweet Stuff!
Okay, I’m not one to overlook dessert, and after indulging in so much seafood, we ended our culinary journey at a local sweet shop called Mizuho. Trust me, the desserts were the perfect way to cleanse our palates! We tried some traditional wagashi (Japanese sweets) that were both beautiful and delicious. I went for a matcha mochi with sweet red bean filling, and wow—a perfect balance of flavors. If you’re a fan of sweets, you absolutely can’t miss this place.
Final Thoughts: A Seafood Lovers’ Paradise Awaits
So there you have it, folks! If you’re heading to Kaike Onsen and looking for some memorable seafood experiences, Yonago City has you covered. From cozy izakayas to dedicated crab restaurants, you’ll find plenty of delicious options to satisfy your cravings.
Mid-March is an excellent time to visit, especially if you love crab! The crab season in this region is in full swing, and you’ll find some of the freshest catches available. Just be prepared to loosen your belts because you might find yourself overindulging! Trust me, every bite will be worth it.
As you plan your trip, don’t hesitate to reach out for more recommendations or tips. I’d love to share more insights about this beautiful corner of Japan. Happy travels, and may your seafood adventures be as amazing as mine were!
