Kikuhiro

Generous cuts of pufferfish simmer in a clear broth for fugu chiri hot pot, flanked by gossamer slices of fugu sashimi and fragrant grilled shirako (milt). Located in Takinogawa, Kita Ward, Kikuhiro is a specialty dining spot dedicated to torafugu (tiger pufferfish), one of winter's quintessential delicacies. Its multi-course torafugu set progresses from flavorful deep-fried karaage to a steaming hot pot, finishing gently with rice porridge (zousui) garnished with toasted mochi.

A Varied Selection of Nigiri and Seasonal Plates

Beyond pufferfish specialties, the restaurant also crafts Edomae nigiri and rolled sushi with careful attention to detail. Selections range from bluefin tuna lean cuts (akami) and medium-fatty chutoro to fugu nigiri, as well as rolls like gizzard shad with pickled ginger (kohada gari maki) and fatty tuna rolls (toro tekka maki)—all making excellent accompaniments to drinks. Options like a summer platter combining tempura and nigiri, as well as beef shabu-shabu, ensure an inviting meal even outside the peak winter fugu season.

Sake from Across Japan to Complement the Cuisine

The sake list catches the eye with everything from crisp, clean food-friendly brews to aromatic junmai daiginjo. Rare labels such as Denshu, Jikon—with its floral and apple-like notes—Juyondai, and Hiroki are on hand, ready to be sipped leisurely alongside delicate fugu dishes or toasted fin sake (hirezake).

Reservations are recommended for evening dining, where guests can enjoy attentive service at table seating in a quiet, relaxed atmosphere.