Fukumasa

Fugu is an ingredient that should be on every foodie’s Japanese checklist. The Japanese pufferfish is famous for its poisonous properties, which means that only expert, licensed chefs are permitted to cook it. There are many places to try it, but the kaiseki style dining at Michelin-starred Fukumasa puts the bulk of them to shame. This Hiroshima pufferfish restaurant serves fugu in a vast range of different ways over the course of a traditional multi-course meal. His will definitely include a rich pufferfish stew, and a generous platter of fugu sashimi, the translucent flesh fanned out decoratively around the plate. The seasonings are the crowning touch, with soy sauce sourced from a factory with a long history, and sun-dried salt from Okinawa. Be sure to make your reservation at least 2 days in advance, as time is needed to age the fish to the perfect level for your arrival. As far as fugu restaurants go, Fukumasa is right up there with the best in the country, boasting one Michelin star. Reserve a seat at their counter or private room to see why for yourself.