The young sweetfish (ayu) from Lake Biwa herald the beginning of summer. Their petite size—about the length of an index finger—belies a surprisingly full-bodied flavor. We add refreshing white miso paste and punchy sweet onions and wild garlic to bring out the savory and bitter palate of the small fish.

Bamboo Shoot Rice

The tender bamboo shoots grown in Kyoto’s Oharano make for a delectable rice dish. Loaded with sweetness and only a touch of bitterness (we forego the use of rice bran in our preparation), these shoots deliver a flavor and aroma like nothing you’ve experienced before.