JUST a 10 minute bus or taxi ride out of the ski resorts is Kutchan, an authentic little Japanese rural town with an amazing range of dining experiences. Here are five of the best…
COCORO OKONOMIYAKI
More than just a restaurant, Okonomiyaki Cocoro is an essential Japanese dining experience. Okonomiyaki is best described as a savoury pancake containing a variety of toppings, batters and sauces that vary from region to region. Cocoro doesn’t simply cook the meal and serve it to you. In a cute little restaurant seating no more than about 10 people, diners get hands-on as staff teach how to prepare and cook their very own Osaka-style okonomiyaki on a hotplate. A very Japanese night out.
0136 22 1528, 0136 23 0008 (English) / 11am-9pm / Kutchan Map B6
Torimatsu
Yakitori are grilled meat skewers or kebabs, and Torimatsu is one of the best places in town to try them. Along with yakitori, Torimatsu also boasts an extensive izakaya menu. And you may just be the only gaijin (tourist) eating there!
0136 23 2893 / 5pm-12pm, closed Sundays / Kutchan Map A3
Enya
Built by the owners of Hirafu’s former izakaya Big Cliff (now Paddy McGinty’s), Enya’s fast become a hotspot for locals. Breathe in the atmosphere rich with the smoky smells of flame-grilled barbecue, experience the flavours of fresh sashimi and more Japanese delights.
0136 22 3438 / 5.30pm-12pm, closed Sundays / Kutchan Map B3
Hamakko
On show at Hamakko is some of the world’s best seafood from the Sea of Japan, contrasted by dishes starring Kutchan’s famous potatoes, and a warming hot pot menu. At the end of the meal, staff are known to dress diners up in Japanese costume and take pictures.
0136 22 2430 / 5.15pm-11pm, closed Sunday / Map A4
Shunsai
Shunsai’s modern Japanese cuisine boasts sumptuous treats and creative fusion of ingredients from Hokkaido land and sea. Trained in several countries, the expertly skilled chef prepares a delicious, beautifully-presented array of contemporary Japanese dishes.
0136 23 1882 / 11am-9pm, closed Sundays / Kutchan Map B5