This time, we introduce Isogiyokarazu Hakata Honten (Main Store), a restaurant famous for course dish that makes use of local Fukuoka and Hakata ingredients. With the freshest seafood dishes on offer, they now have a vegan menu with many beautiful offerings available. When we visited, there were 9 dishes in total, including small bowl dishes using tofu, yuba and beans, tempura, soup, and takikomi gohan (seasoned rice)!

We were particularly taken by the soup stock. The exquisite seasoning hits the spot, neither too thick nor too thin and is sure to satisfy the palate of customers local or from abroad, which is a showcase of the skill of the chefs who are familiar with Hakata's ingredients. In addition to the soup stock drawn with kelp and shiitake mushrooms, Japanese ingredients such as fragrant nori seaweed, yuzu and ume plums colour each dish. Every dish is tasteful, and you can enjoy the compatibility of Japanese food and plant-based menus and rediscover the potential of Japanese cuisine!

As for rice dishes, chicken soboro-style takikomi gohan (seasoned rice) was served, but instead this restaurant uses soybean meat! In addition to the umami of the ingredients, the richness of the dashi soup stock and soy sauce harmonises beautifully, and the texture is also a fun discovery. The menu varies depending on the season and availability. If you would like a vegan menu, please check with the store in advance and make a reservation. As the chief chef said, "we want you to enjoy your meal with a smile amongst free flowing conversations”, and true to that the smiles and dialogue naturally flow, whilst being surrounded by an amazing food experience. It is no doubt that the best food to enjoy at Fukuoka's secret restaurant will be a special experience.