Otsu, Shiga, Japan｜Jinrai

I was able to enter the store even though reservations were prioritized. It seems like the timing was good because it was a weekday, but I would like to make a reservation next time. It was my first time visiting a store specializing in chanko. Two servings of mixed chanko nabe, local Shiga sake, shochu high, and beer. After that, we enjoyed two servings of yakitori and some squid yam while the hot pot was ready while enjoying drinks. Chicken thighs with crispy skin and juicy inside. It's well seasoned, so it goes well with beer or shochu high. Yams go well with cold sake. Even while waiting for the exciting hot pot, the drinks were delicious. The long-awaited hotpot contained beautifully marbled meat and chicken, as well as vegetables such as Chinese cabbage and spinach. The fried tofu also has an elegant taste. What was unusual for me was the potatoes. The soup stock is just delicious. It's so elegant that I don't think I could make it at home. The home-made hotpot gets progressively more boring, and the soup doesn't get cloudy at all, but I felt like it was a great professional experience, probably because they put so much effort into each and every ingredient. To finish off my meal, I ordered rice porridge. They prepared the food in the kitchen with a pot and served it in a rice bowl. This is another creamy rice porridge...The one I made at home is similar to rice porridge lol I was so impressed and full. I was so impressed that the next day I went home after drinking, eating, and eating everything, including the soup stock, with zero swelling. I didn't know what to do. It also felt healthy. There were two people, one who was cooking and the other who was in charge of the cooking. With a kind response that makes you feel attentive to the details. It was cozy and the food was served in a timely manner, so I had a great time. It was a restaurant that I would like to visit again if I have the chance.

It's midsummer, but chanko nabe. I had it with beer. The squid nagaimo strips that came with the course were also delicious. It's completely different from the hotpots at chain stores, and the price is reasonable. Moreover, Omi beef is a great value. On the way home, I received a fan as a service. There were many handprints of famous sumo wrestlers in the store.

Chanko nabe is light but has a strong flavor and is very delicious! I even enjoyed the rice porridge. The staff at the store are also kind and make you feel glad you came.