又 三 郎
[Fukuoka-Kumamoto Trip (DAY3-①)] On the third day of the Fukuoka-Kumamoto trip, which is the final day, there is plenty of time for sightseeing as the flight from Fukuoka Airport departs at 18:35. First, we decided to have a hearty meal at a izakaya called "Uoto Sakana Ito Okashi" near our hotel in Nakasu. The restaurant opens at 7:00 in the morning, which is quite impressive. We arrived 15 minutes before opening and found a long line of about 20 people, mostly women. Unfortunately, we missed the first round of seating right in front of my eyes. After waiting for about 30 minutes, we were finally able to enter. The first floor consisted of counter seats only, and we were seated at a table in the back. The breakfast menu ranged from 1300 yen to 3500 yen, with a variety of side dishes and drinks available. Many customers were enjoying sashimi for breakfast, but I wasn't in the mood for raw fish in the morning, so I ordered the "Ara-Ni Set Meal" for 1500 yen, "Grilled Mentaiko" for 300 yen, and "Natto" for 100 yen. After exhausting myself at a live concert the previous night and settling for cup noodles for dinner, I woke up hungry and ready to eat a full meal. The "Ara-Ni Set Meal (with Grilled Mentaiko and Natto)" arrived in about 10 minutes. The ara-ni consisted of various fish parts with plenty of meat attached, resembling a cross between fish head and simmered fish. I was told that it contained four types of fish ara, including sea bream and amberjack. I started with the meaty part near the head, which was delicious with its rich fat content. The seasoning was a slightly sweet soy sauce typical of Kyushu, not too strong but flavorful. The rice went down so easily. Each part of the ara had a different taste and texture, making it enjoyable to eat without getting bored. There was also sea bream head included, which I personally love. I even ate the gelatinous eyeballs. The grilled mentaiko was lightly seared, mostly raw with a slightly charred surface. It was not too spicy, just the right amount of heat. Each table also had spicy pickled mustard greens with hijiki, which added a nice kick to the meal. I enjoyed the meal so much that I even had a half portion of rice as a refill (complimentary). It was a very satisfying and delicious breakfast. I would love to visit this restaurant again for dinner next time. Thank you for the meal! Now, it's time to hop on the Kyushu Shinkansen and head to Kumamoto!