About Kihachi and the Passion for Perfection
Nestled in a quaint strip mall in Dublin lies Kihachi, a gem that shines with the allure of simple perfection. The chef and owner, Ryuji Kimura, known affectionately as Mike, caters to a discerning clientele, displaying an unwavering passion for the freshest ingredients. His dedication is such that he often personally informs his favorite customers about new, exciting arrivals, thereby ensuring they never miss out on exclusive culinary delights.
The Uninitiated Visit: A Journey Into Authentic Japanese Cuisine
Without any prior introduction, my husband and I ventured into Kihachi, trodding a path unguided by those "in the know." The skepticism from the staff, upon our request to be seated at the counter, could not deter us. Our adventurous spirit rewarded us with a menu translated for our benefit, leading us to discover an array of small dishes including the most sensational duck soba.
The Test of Trust: Growing Bonds With Chef Kimura
With each visit, our connection with Chef Kimura deepened. An incidental find of horse mackerel special on our second visit led to a delightful challenge—fried and salted horse mackerel skeleton—a test we passed with flying colors. The culinary bond was cemented; a trust formed in tastes and textures.
The Photographic Tribute and Epicurean Exploration
Our recent venture included the honor of photographing Chef Kimura's work. Each dish was an artwork, demanding to be captured as much as consumed. The philosophy at Kihachi is grounded in the art of small bites—you relish the perfect touch of exquisite appetizers rather than the monotony of heaping portions.
Ginkgo, Oysters, and Wasabi: The Revelations of Freshness
Starting with Kirin beer and roasted ginkgo nuts, we let Chef take the helm of our culinary voyage. Bluefin tuna otoro with freshly grated wasabi stood out. It was not just a dish but an epiphany; a union of the richest marine flavors with the pungency of wasabi, reminding us that sometimes, the simplest ingredients speak the loudest.
Cultural Delicacies: Embracing the Authentic Over the Familiar
On the path to embracing the new, we indulged in traditional Japanese offerings like cod soft roe and monkfish liver—a true testament to the rich repertoire of Japanese cuisine. Each dish was an encouragement to step beyond comfort zones, underscoring the philosophy that the Kihachi experience isn't merely about dining—it's about gastronomic enlightenment.
Conclusion: The Simplicity and Grandeur of Kihachi
Kihachi isn't about an overflowing plate but about cherishing the inherent beauty of each ingredient, like the pine-needle nestled matsutaki mushrooms that sing of their earthy origins. To dine here is to leave with a satiated palate and a soul yearning for more such unadorned yet profound culinary conversations. If your heart is open to the adventure of pure, unfettered Japanese food, Kihachi is the place that promises an 'A' grade in the journey of taste every single time.
Visit Kihachi: Details for the Epicurean Adventurer
Location: 2667 Federated Blvd, Dublin, OH
Distance: A 20-minute drive from downtown Columbus
Contact: 614.764.9040