December 18, 2023
Oryouri Fujii
Restaurant preserves Toyama’s craft culture
Iwase, home of the restaurant Oryouri Fujii, is a beautiful district in Toyama on the Sea of Japan coast, just a 20-minute streetcar ride from Toyama Station. Like other regional cities, Iwase had long been in decline. But in 2004, it was reinvigorated by a renewal project in the prefectural capital that was spearheaded by Masudashuzo, the sake brewery famous for the Masuizumi brand. By inviting artisans, chefs and others to make use of its traditional buildings, Iwase succeeded in transforming itself into a base for the dissemination of Toyama culture.
One of those buildings, formerly the residence of a wealthy maritime merchant, now houses Oryouri Fujii. A splendid Japanese garden greets those passing through the front gate, and guests can gaze at this garden while savoring the restaurant’s omakase course menu for ¥27,500 ($180). Sake is poured into cups chosen by guests from a tray bearing a multicolored assortment.
Owner Hironori Fujii, who was born and raised in Toyama and opened his restaurant there after training in Kanazawa and Kyoto, is a supporter of Masudashuzo’s renewal project. Fujii uses ingredients and tableware from the Hokuriku region, with a focus on Toyama Prefecture. While some of the dishes are antiques, he also orders items from local creators to contribute to the development of outstanding artisans. This is significant, as it connects with the culture of future generations. His decision to relocate here signals that Fujii wants to be accepted by the people rather than to go at it alone as the owner of a high-class Japanese restaurant. For that reason, he actively builds connections not only with food producers and artisans, but also with residents via preschools and festivals. Without a doubt, this is one factor in the harmonious atmosphere that pervades Oryouri Fujii.
Address
Oryouri Fujii
93, Iwasebunkamachi, Toyama, Toyama
https://www.oryouri-fujii.jp
Hachiro Nitta
Governor of Toyama
I would like to congratulate Oryouri Fujii for being selected as one of the Destination Restaurants 2023.
Toyama Prefecture is blessed with a beautiful and rich natural environment and is a treasure trove of fresh and delicious food from the sea, fields and mountains. At Oryouri Fujii, you will be able to experience the “foundation of happiness” that Toyama prides itself on through the carefully prepared dishes.
We hope you will experience the various charms of Toyama Prefecture along with Oryouri Fujii’s gastronomic delights.
Hirohisa Fujii
Mayor of Toyama
I am very happy to have Oryouri Fujii selected as one of The Japan Times’ Destination Restaurants 2023.Located alongside the grand Tateyama mountain range and Toyama Bay, which is known as a natural fish preserve, Toyama city has a rich harvest from the mountains and the sea, as well as a diverse culinary culture. In such a blessed environment, please enjoy the exquisite cuisine prepared by the highly refined skills of the owner, Mr. Hironori Fujii, and spend a pleasant time savoring the beauty of the seasons with all of your senses.
