M・N・ドラッカー
Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is surrounded by a peaceful atmosphere, and nearby is a restaurant called Suigetsuan, located in front of the Komyozenji Temple. As you enter the traditional Japanese house surrounded by trees, you will be greeted by a beautiful view of lush greenery through the windows. The ambiance alone is enough to captivate you.
For lunch, we ordered the Yudofu or Sansai Nabe, a hot pot dish made with vegetables and chicken. While waiting for the hot pot to be ready, various dishes were served one after another: sesame tofu, pumpkin stew, bracken simmered in broth, walnut miso, steamed shrimp, vinegared yam strips, mountain vegetable tempura, and eggplant miso.
Each dish is simple in flavor, highlighting the natural taste of the ingredients. The pumpkin stew, in particular, was so sweet and well-cooked that I wanted more. Despite the lack of elegance in appearance, the flavors were impeccable.
Finally, the piping hot hot pot arrived. The sturdy clay pot was filled with onions and green onions, giving off a rustic vibe. Carrots, radishes, taro, shiitake mushrooms, and chicken were stewed together, creating a dish that felt like a taste of the mountains.
As we scooped the contents into bowls, the soup revealed a gentle flavor packed with the umami of vegetables and chicken. The sweetness of the onions added depth to the dish. The tender chicken and vegetables were thoroughly cooked, making it a joy to savor each bite.
You could feel your body warming up slightly, as if nourishment was being stored with each bite. After finishing the meal, you can admire the view of the garden. The lush greenery all around is so beautiful, it feels like a cleanse for the soul. The combination of the delicious food and the green scenery felt like the ultimate luxury.
I never expected to experience a Kyoto-like atmosphere in Dazaifu. This restaurant is definitely worth a visit, especially during the autumn foliage season.