During this trip to Kochi, when I went to see the Nora Clock, I specifically asked a local Japanese person if there were any nearby restaurants they would recommend. To my surprise, they recommended Kachu Furusato-kan.
Since it was recommended by a local, of course I had to try it! This restaurant is known for using local Kochi ingredients, especially dishes made with dried sardines. I ordered their signature freshly fried dried sardine rice bowl. When it arrived, the rice was covered with lots of tiny dried fish and topped with grated daikon and shiso leaves. It looked simple and refreshing.
This was my first time trying this combination. The dried fish had a natural savory flavor, and together with the grated daikon and shiso leaves, it tasted light and wasn't greasy. It was even more delicious than I expected!
The set also came with side dishes, pickles, tea, and soup. Everything went together very well, and the meal was quite satisfying. I had originally only planned to visit the Nora Clock, but thanks to an enthusiastic recommendation from a local, I unexpectedly got to enjoy such good local food.
