Category: Local Eats

  • Asahiya in Ōgaki — The Chuka Soba and Katsudon Spot Locals Still Treasure

    , ,

    Introduction – A Showa-Era Eatery with Over 80 Years of History Asahiya (アサヒ屋) opened its doors in 1936 (Showa 11). What began as a modest eatery soon became beloved for offering warm, filling meals during the postwar years. Their udon gained local popularity, and over time, the menu expanded to include dishes that remain favorites…

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    image of chuka soba

  • Oden Season: What’s Inside Japan’s Coziest Winter Dish

    , , ,

    When winter slowly settles over Japan, the country begins to shift in gentle, familiar ways. The air grows crisp and quiet, the evenings stretch a little longer, and the soft scent of simmering broth starts drifting through convenience stores, izakaya, and ordinary homes. That scent can only mean one thing: Oden season has arrived. Oden…

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    image of oden on table with looks like a party

  • Japanese Curry Rice: The Heartwarming Dish Everyone in Japan Grows Up With

    ,

    Discover why Japanese curry rice is considered Japan’s ultimate comfort food. Explore its history, unique flavors, cultural importance, and why it continues to win hearts across all generations.

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    image of japanese curry with katsu on top

  • Ramen Dates in Gifu, Vol. 1 — Nageyari’s Famous Pork & Seafood Bowl

    , ,

    One of our favorite weekend traditions is what I like to call our “ramen date.”No fancy plans — just me and my husband going out to slurp noodles somewhere new. This time, we finally tried Nageyari (なげやり) — a well-known ramen shop in Gifu City that’s often featured on YouTube and Japanese TV shows. It’s…

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    A steaming bowl of ramen from Nageyari in Gifu, topped with thick slices of char siu pork, seasoned egg, spinach, bamboo shoots, and seaweed in a rich pork-and-seafood broth.

  • A Morning at 251 Café – Simple, Cozy, and Worth the Wait

    ,

    Hidden in Gifu, 251 Café (ニコイチカフェ) offers a warm and minimalist space perfect for slow mornings. Enjoy a beautiful Morning Set with croissant, salad, and latte — simple, cozy, and worth the wait.

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    The wooden exterior of 251 Café in Gifu, with black metal letters and a small olive tree in front, creating a warm and rustic welcome.