Hello, this is Masuo!

During my food adventures in Japan, I visited Minokou, a well-known restaurant in Oga City, Akita Prefecture, where I tried their specialty—Ishiyaki (stone-boiled dish). If you’re looking for an authentic Japanese food experience, this place is a must-visit!

What is Ishiyaki Cuisine?

Ishiyaki is a traditional dish from Oga Peninsula, where fresh seafood, such as sea bream and seaweed, is cooked by adding extremely hot stones (over 800°C) into a wooden bucket filled with broth. This unique cooking method seals in the seafood’s natural flavors, creating a rich and umami-packed soup.

When the hot stones are dropped in, the broth boils vigorously, creating an exciting and dramatic dining experience.

How to Reserve a Table at Minokou & Menu Options

Since Minokou uses fresh wild-caught sea bream, the availability of ingredients is not always guaranteed. I called two weeks in advance, but they asked me to call back three days before my visit to confirm availability.

🔸 Reservation is highly recommended because they often run out of ingredients.

Menu Highlights

• Ishiyaki Set (Sea Bream + Rice + Sides): ¥3,600
• Ishiyaki (Only the Dish): ¥3,000
• Marinated Sea Bream Rice Bowl: ¥1,900
• Sliced Sea Bream Sashimi: ¥1,600

The prices are a bit high for a lunch meal, but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience you don’t want to miss!

My Ishiyaki Experience – Tasting Report!

After waiting a few minutes, the boiling hot Ishiyaki was served in front of me!

The bubbling broth and sizzling hot stones looked spectacular—way more impressive than I expected.

First, I took a sip of the broth. It was crystal clear and packed with deep umami flavors from the seafood. Absolutely delicious!

The sea bream was incredibly tender and flavorful, absorbing all the essence of the broth. There was a generous amount of fish, making the meal very satisfying.

The best part? Pouring the broth over rice to make a flavorful seafood porridge! It was so delicious that I finished everything, including the last drop of soup.

The thick-cut sashimi that came with the set was fresh and naturally sweet. Even the pickled seaweed side dish was a perfect match for the meal.

I was completely satisfied. The rich flavors of this dish stayed with me long after the meal.

Conclusion – A Must-Try Dish in Oga!

Minokou is a must-visit for travelers who want to experience Oga’s unique Ishiyaki cuisine. The fresh seafood, traditional cooking method, and breathtaking location make it an unforgettable experience.

When visiting Oga Peninsula, don’t miss this incredible local delicacy!