Kagawa｜A Must-Try in Kagawa Recommended by Locals: Juicy Grilled Chicken (Bone-in Bird)

When it comes to 'Bone-in Bird,' it has become a specialty of Kagawa in recent years. After trying the famous restaurant 'Yakitori Mitori' in Takamatsu, I couldn't forget the taste. Pair it with chicken broth rice, cabbage soaked in chicken oil, and take a bite of the juicy grilled chicken—it's pure satisfaction. This dish is highly recommended by Japanese locals, even more appealing than udon noodles. This time, I visited Marugame, the birthplace of this dish, and of course, I had to try the crispy grilled chicken. The restaurant thoughtfully provides scissors, but the authentic way to eat it is to grab the chicken leg and take a big bite, followed by a sip of alcohol for a carefree experience. The restaurant's tofu fried in chicken broth is so delicious that you'll want seconds. Pair it with a highball, and you'll leave feeling completely full. Why has 'Bone-in Bird' become popular in Marugame and throughout Kagawa? It actually has ties to the local economy. Kagawa has its own port, historically serving as a gateway for importing grains. Being close to Osaka, Kagawa developed numerous chicken farms to produce eggs for Osaka. The retired hens were eventually turned into chicken dishes. With an abundant supply of chicken, 'Bone-in Bird' became a local specialty. By the way, when ordering 'Bone-in Bird,' you can choose between 'Oyadori' (older hen) or 'Hinadori' (young chicken). One offers a chewy texture, while the other is tender and juicy—it's up to your preference. 📍Address: 52-1 Toricho, Marugame, Kagawa 763-0043, Japan 🚗 A 10-minute walk from JR Marugame Station