Kyoto's Culinary Magic: My Journey from Sizzling Chinese to Sweet Donuts, Inspired by Sato Shiori's 'Oishisugite Nanja Kora!'

Photo by Nathan J Hilton on Pexels

Kyoto, a city steeped in tradition and breathtaking beauty, has long been a dream destination for any true food enthusiast. But recently, my culinary compass was pointed even more sharply towards this ancient capital, all thanks to the buzz around celebrity Sato Shiori's incredible gastronomic adventures there. Her enthusiastic declaration, "Oishisugite Nanja Kora!" – roughly translating to "It's so delicious, what is this?!" – after sampling Kyoto's diverse offerings, resonated deeply with my own quest for unforgettable flavors. So, with her inspiring journey as my guide, I set out to experience a slice of Kyoto's gourmet scene for myself, particularly focusing on the intriguing combination of Chinese cuisine and delightful donuts.

A Sizzling Start: Kyoto's Unexpected Chinese Delights

When one thinks of Kyoto cuisine, images of delicate kaiseki, vibrant matcha, and savory yuba often come to mind. Chinese food isn't typically at the forefront. Yet, Sato Shiori's exploration highlighted this unexpected facet of Kyoto's culinary landscape, and I was eager to dive in. We found ourselves in a cozy, unassuming restaurant, the air rich with the enticing aroma of soy, ginger, and garlic. The menu, a delightful mix of familiar dishes with a distinct Japanese touch, promised an exciting experience.

The first dish to arrive was a vibrant stir-fry, glistening with a rich, savory sauce. The vegetables were impeccably fresh, offering a satisfying crunch, while the tender morsels of meat melted in my mouth. Each bite was a symphony of flavors – a perfect balance of umami, a hint of sweetness, and a subtle warmth that lingered pleasantly. It wasn't just Chinese food; it was Kyoto Chinese food, refined and exquisitely executed. I could almost hear Sato Shiori's delighted gasp echoing in my mind as I savored the complex layers of taste. It was truly a revelation, challenging my preconceived notions of what Kyoto gourmet could offer.

The Sweet Surprise: From Savory to Sublime Donuts

After the robust flavors of our Chinese feast, it was time for a complete shift in our culinary journey, following Sato Shiori's path to the sweet side: donuts. Kyoto, surprisingly, boasts a thriving artisanal donut scene, moving far beyond simple fried dough. We sought out a charming little shop, its storefront exuding a warm, inviting glow. Inside, the air was thick with the comforting scent of sugar, vanilla, and freshly baked goods – a stark yet welcome contrast to the earlier spices.

The display case was a colorful array of creations, from classic glazed to innovative matcha-infused and seasonal fruit toppings. I chose a fluffy donut, lightly dusted with kinako (roasted soybean flour) and a delicate swirl of black sugar glaze, while my companion opted for one bursting with a tangy yuzu cream filling. The first bite was pure bliss. The dough was incredibly light, almost cloud-like, yielding to the slightest pressure. The kinako added a wonderfully nutty, earthy note, perfectly complementing the subtle sweetness of the glaze. It wasn't overly rich; instead, it offered a sophisticated sweetness that felt distinctly Japanese. It was a delightful palate cleanser and a sweet testament to Kyoto's ability to elevate even the simplest of treats.

Echoing Sato Shiori's Delight: "Oishisugite Nanja Kora!"

As I sat there, savoring the last crumb of my kinako donut, the full weight of the day's culinary adventure settled in. From the unexpected depth of the Chinese cuisine to the refined simplicity of the donuts, Kyoto had delivered an experience far beyond my expectations. It was in that moment, gazing out at the quaint Kyoto street, that I truly understood Sato Shiori's famous exclamation. The food wasn't just "good" or "delicious"; it was transcendent. It was so remarkably flavorful, so surprisingly delightful, that one could only exclaim, "Oishisugite Nanja Kora!" – "It's so delicious, what is this?!"

It’s a feeling that goes beyond mere satisfaction, a moment of pure, unadulterated joy and a touch of bewilderment at the sheer deliciousness. To experience this alongside the traditional beauty of Kyoto only amplified its magic. It’s a testament to the city's incredible ability to blend diverse flavors, ancient traditions, and modern culinary innovation into a truly unique and unforgettable gastronomic tapestry.

Embark on Your Own Kyoto Gourmet Adventure

Following in Sato Shiori's footsteps was more than just sampling food; it was an immersion into the unexpected layers of Kyoto's culinary soul. If you're planning a trip to this enchanting city, I wholeheartedly recommend venturing beyond the well-trodden paths. Seek out the vibrant Chinese restaurants, indulge in the artisanal donuts, and allow yourself to be surprised by the sheer breadth of Kyoto gourmet. You might just find yourself exclaiming "Oishisugite Nanja Kora!" too. Every bite tells a story, and Kyoto's stories are particularly delicious ones.