Inawashiro, Fukushima, Japan｜Sazare-ishi

It’s a hidden, homely gem in the middle of nowhere. Very large portions of seasonal, traditional Japanese country food served by friendly folks in their 70s. I got the 鰻重 (eel on rice) at the recommendation of the owner/cook. He came out afterwards to chat with us, and even gave us free desert (fig paste/jelly). The restaurant has been in running for 30 years - perhaps a window into a period slowly disappearing. I wonder whether places like this will exist in a few years?

Mid-November I was invited by the banner of "Ayu no Shioyaki" while passing by. While I was having sweetfish grilled in front of the shop, I was curious about the letters "Jusanwari Soba" at the back of the shop and entered the shop. I ordered a set of maitake mushroom tempura and 13% soba. Both soba and tempura were delicious. A lot of side dishes in small bowls are attached, and I was surprised at the volume. All of these are also delicious. Besides the food, what surprised me the most was how delicious the water was. It seems that it is spring water from a well dug at the shop, and I was surprised at the sensation that it soaked into my tongue as soon as I put it in my mouth. The staff at the shop were friendly and welcoming. It seems that it is closed in winter, so I would like to go again in the spring. I heard that there will be a seasonal menu featuring wild vegetables and junsai, so I can't wait.

I had salt-grilled sweetfish♪ The salt-grilled sweetfish I received at other places had bones that stuck in my mouth, the head was so hard that I had to leave it behind, and it was too bitter, but this one had none of those things and was very delicious. ♪ I was able to go through it all♪ Although it was only a short time, I had a good time with the staff and I was able to talk to them in a friendly manner. I would love to visit you again. The car was parked in front of the store. This visit will be one year after my last visit. The sweetfish with roe was delicious again this time! I also had the pleasure of meeting and talking with the owner of the shop. The miso konnyaku was also delicious, and I bought it as a souvenir after eating it on the spot. I plan to visit again in a year. I will visit again one year later. I received sweetfish this year too! It's delicious! This year we also received dango. I was disappointed that the miso I bought as a souvenir last year was not available this year. I'll see you again in a year.