Kikusui 菊水
- Area
- Miyagi
- Access and surrounding information
- Access and surrounding information
A Cozy Izakaya with Comforting, Nostalgic Flavors
Located approximately a 2-minute walk from Kotodai-Koen Station on the Sendai Subway, "Kikusui" is an izakaya on Mitsukoshi Street in the Higashi-Ichi Market. The owner, who trained at a Japanese restaurant, opened the establishment at age 27, and it remains a local favorite. The menu carries on the tradition of "Kikusui," a renowned yakiton restaurant in Morioka, Iwate, once run by the owner's maternal family before its much-regretted closure. Signature pork dishes include "Yakitori" and "Motsu Stew," complemented by "Tono Jingisukan Hot Pot" sourced from Tono, Iwate; seafood purchased that day; char personally caught by the owner in mountain streams; and seasonal wild vegetables such as tara buds and wild hops.
"Yakitori" Carrying on a Renowned Yakiton Tradition
The restaurant carries on the tradition of "Kikusui," the celebrated yakiton restaurant in Morioka, Iwate Prefecture, that closed to widespread regret, serving its signature style of grilled skewers. Alongside classic selections such as uraniku (inner thigh) and kashira (pork cheek), rare cuts are also available depending on the day's selection. Each skewer is carefully grilled over charcoal, preserving the distinctive flavors of the renowned original.
Great Food and a Comfortable Setting for Drinks
The first floor features counter seating, while the second floor offers tatami seating suitable for various gatherings. The drink selection, chosen to complement the cuisine, centers on sake from Miyagi and the wider Tohoku region, as well as rare seasonal labels. Owner-recommended sake pairs with the restaurant's carefully prepared dishes.
