About
In the heart of Kōchi Prefecture, where the verdant mountains embrace the azure Pacific, there lies a place that defies the ordinary—a realm where culinary artistry and whimsical imagination converge. As you approach, the first thing that captures your gaze is a colossal shark, its jaws agape in a frozen roar, standing sentinel at the entrance. Nearby, a menagerie of sculptures—dinosaurs, whales, and even a replica of the Catbus from Studio Ghibli's "My Neighbor Totoro"—dot the landscape, each piece a testament to the owner's eclectic vision.
Stepping inside, the ambiance shifts from the surreal to the fantastical. The interior is a kaleidoscope of curiosities: antique artifacts mingle with modern kitsch, and overhead, a massive dragon coils through the rafters, its scales glinting in the ambient light. In one corner, towering statues of Sakamoto Ryōma and his wife, Oryō, stand in silent vigil, their presence a nod to the region's rich history. The walls are adorned with an array of memorabilia, each piece with its own story, inviting diners to embark on a visual journey as they await their meal.
The menu, presented in a newspaper format, is as unconventional as the décor. Among the offerings is the famed "Katsuo no Tataki Parfait"—a daring fusion of seared bonito slices artfully arranged atop a scoop of ginger-infused ice cream, garnished with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of local honey. This dish, a harmonious blend of savory and sweet, pays homage to Kōchi's culinary heritage while challenging the palate with its innovative pairing. Another standout is the "Tosa Jirō Omurice," featuring fluffy omelets made from the eggs of the prized Tosa Jirō chicken, enveloping a bed of seasoned rice, and served alongside crispy whale cutlets—a combination that encapsulates the essence of the region's flavors.
Beyond the gastronomic delights, the establishment is a living chronicle of its founder's adventures and passions. From participating in the grueling Marathon des Sables across the Sahara to importing a traditional Balinese hut piece by piece to serve as a private dining area, each endeavor adds a layer to the tapestry of this unique locale. The owner's penchant for the extraordinary is evident in every corner, from the custom-painted vehicles parked outside to the ever-evolving collection of artifacts that adorn the space.
As you savor each bite, the symphony of flavors is complemented by the visual feast surrounding you. The juxtaposition of traditional Japanese elements with whimsical, sometimes surreal, decorations creates an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and novel. It's a place where the boundaries between dining and art blur, offering an experience that lingers long after the meal has ended.
In this corner of Kōchi, the spirit of innovation and reverence for tradition coalesce, inviting all who enter to partake in a journey that tantalizes the senses and ignites the imagination. It's a testament to the idea that dining is not merely about sustenance but about storytelling, adventure, and the joy of the unexpected.