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When traveling in Kagawa, it’s tempting to end the night with staples like udon or Honetsukidori.
But for those looking to go beyond the classics, there’s akari, an Italian-French creative bistro tucked away in Takamatsu’s Kawaramachi area.
This cozy spot offers a relaxed atmosphere where guests can casually enjoy wine and creative dishes—welcoming everyone from solo diners to families.
In this article, we’ll share a firsthand experience of akari, highlighting the ambiance, menu features, and a report on the actual dishes we enjoyed.
akari is a casual bistro located in Kawaramachi, Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture, offering creative Italian and French-style cuisine. It’s known for its inviting atmosphere and thoughtfully prepared dishes and wine, all without pretense. The restaurant is also equipped with a kids’ room, making it accessible and comfortable for families with children.
Kawaramachi is known as one of the liveliest districts in Takamatsu, Kagawa. Nestled in a quieter side street just off the main area, akari quietly operates its charming bistro.
The exterior wall and illuminated signage make the place easy to spot, even at night.
With its eye-catching red logo and gate-style sign, the bistro has a notable yet subtle presence in this quiet alleyway.
Inside, the bistro offers around 22 seats, including counter and table seating. The spacious layout allows for a relaxed dining experience, whether you’re visiting alone or in a group.
The warm wood furnishings and indirect lighting create a stylish yet inviting interior. It’s a casually elegant space designed with care.
In the back, there’s even a traditional Japanese-style kids’ room, making it a family-friendly spot.
The menu is handwritten on a chalkboard and features daily specials. Every visit brings the excitement of new culinary discoveries—one of the delights of dining at akari.
Menu items change with the seasons and available ingredients, making even the act of choosing dishes part of the fun.
Prices are kept modest, making it easy to enjoy appetizers and mains without concern. Whether you’re a local regular or a traveler stopping in for dinner, the price point makes this bistro an easy addition to any evening plan.
Sitting at the counter, you can watch the owner-chef carefully prepare each dish.
From his calm movements and thoughtful service, you can feel the care he puts not only into the food but also into the overall experience of the restaurant.
Even without words, there’s a comforting sense of connection.
The quiet moments spent focusing on each bite made for a deeply fulfilling time.
Here’s what we ordered that evening:
Each dish paired well with the white wine. The carpaccio stood out with its refreshing acidity and aroma of olive oil.
The stir-fried squid and cabbage had a nice anchovy saltiness that paired perfectly with drinks.
And the garlic-salted fries, while seemingly out of genre, surprisingly matched the wine in a very natural way.
Including two glasses of white wine, the total bill came to 3,520 yen.
The reasonable pricing makes it an easy choice even for travelers.
How should you spend the evening while traveling in Kagawa?
akari offers a gentle answer to that question.
Enjoy a quiet drink at the counter as a solo guest, or share a relaxed meal with family and friends.
This is a place that welcomes both experiences with open arms.
Every dish is carefully prepared, and each pairs effortlessly with wine. The flavors and atmosphere gently ease away the fatigue of travel, creating a moment of calm.
After a day filled with famous local flavors like Sanuki udon and Honetsukidori, why not close the evening with a little elegance?
For a quiet and stylish night in Kagawa, akari is a choice worth considering.
