Kochi's castle is a beautiful example dating back form the seventeenth century . While many others across the country have been restored, this castle still has the original structure, and it is the only one in Japan to retain both its original keep and palace.
Ten minutes away from it, you will find my favourite food market in the world (so far): the Hirome Market
Behind a terribly unassuming facade which makes it nearly invisible, this place is buzzing and full of locals.
In the last few years, there have appeared a few traders with a different offer which include a French restaurant and an Italian cafe which serves- according to the posters- the La Viña Cheesecake (1) but the really popular ones are those serving local food, drinks and ingredients.
The reason why i love this particular market is because it is completely democratic. Everyone literally sits together along long tables.... like at any village fete in the Basque Country and enjoy the moment.
You chose a trader, order some dishes which they bring to you when ready and without a buzzer and when you finish you get some more. Meanwhile, you chat among yourselves or with those sitting next to you and simply be.
No fuss.
Of course the city has many great restaurants but the atmosphere here is a joy to behold. (1) If you are not aware of this phenomenon, La Viña is a bar in the old town of Donostia which serves a now world famous cheesecake. Japan and other countries have become fans to such a level that you cannot travel across the country without encountering some version or business dedicated to it.
The Japanese 7 Eleven even has their own version which they call Basque Cheese and on the first week sold millions.... yes, you read correctly. *
A beautiful area to which one arrives by crossing its mountains either by train or car through infrastructure which runs parallel to it rivers.
There are many delicious dishes to be found there but my favourite is Katsuo (bonito for you and me). Torched on the outside by flames from open fires , it is served in many ways.
With ponzu (citrus sauce) or shio (salt) are my favourite.
I also wanted to share other dishes you can find in the Hirome Market (check the next post) which are simply delicious.
