My Hirome Market adventure

When I visited Hirome Market in Kochi City for the first time, I didn’t expect it to be like a miniature town of its own. Even though it didn’t look so big from the outside, I found myself turning corners several times, as I wandered from one dining space to another✨

The market has a funky, retro vibe with izakaya (Japanese pubs), bars and food stalls lined up next to each other compactly. I also found a clothing store, souvenir shop and…wait for it…massage clinic! Hirome Market never ceases to surprise????

My favorite place was definitely the main dining area where I could see jolly people chatting, and of course…the fire-blazing, bonito-searing in action! At the time, I hadn’t yet tried katsuo no tataki (seared bonito) aka Kochi’s soul food. So, I sure knew what I was getting for lunch????

A thick cut of freshly-seared bonito topped with a thin slice of garlic, ginger, and onion, as well as dipped in ponzu (a citrus-based sauce)...that’s what dreams are made of????????

After my melt-in-your-mouth feast, I left Hirome Market with a big smile on my face and happy tummy. Surely, an adventure I will remember for life????

Learn more about katsuo no tataki: https://visitkochijapan.com/en/taste-of-kochi/katsuo