In the realm of Japanese culture, fireflies reign supreme, basking in the limelight of literature, cinematic artistry, and visual marvels. Thus, it comes as no surprise that the annual Hotaru Matsuri, the celebrated Firefly Festival, illuminates the scene during this hallowed season. It is within the heart of Nagoya’s verdant forest that these ethereal creatures emit an unwavering glow. Yet, their mesmerising radiance extends to the very confines of ‘Hotaru’, the most luminous sanctuary in the vibrant district of Ruzafa in Valencia.  In this momentous occasion, Hotaru embraces its namesake with a singular adventure: The Firefly Menu. From now until the 15th of July, the epicurean offering unfolds – a special menu that includes a small welcome cocktail, as well as dishes such as sashimi moriawase, lace-inspired u-maki with citrus sauce, salmon nigiri with kizami-wasabi, and sweet Fuji apple gyozas with caramel miso sauce, among others. Each delectable creation, a testament to culinary mastery, is accompanied by a bespoke watercolour tableau – an artistic homage capturing the resplendent spectacle of the Hotaru Matsuri. This exclusive menu may be savoured for a price of 59 euros per person.

Indulge in the Hotaru experience wherever you may be:

While Hotaru’s dining room and terrace eagerly await guests from Tuesday to Saturday at C/Cádiz 48 in the hip barrio of Ruzafa (Valencia), there are those who prefer the convenience of ordering takeout and relishing in the finest Japanese recipes within the comforts of their own homes, on the beach, in solitude, or in the company of friends. Rest assured, takeout service is indeed available! Simply pay a visit to the establishment, peruse the enticing menu, and patiently await your order behind the counter, where you can witness the skilled sushi chefs in action. It is important to note, however, that delivery service is not offered.

A new menu filled with brightness:

At Hotaru, the chefs are now unveiling a new array of dishes, all of which are also available for takeout service. For those who crave a deeper exploration of the culinary offerings, let us unveil a few tantalising selections. In the Kaishi section, indulge in the delightful combination of bonito tataki accompanied by the vibrant flavours of ponzu sauce and crispy garlic chips. Moving to the Sushi Bar section, prepare your taste buds for an exquisite journey with options like tender squid nigiri paired with its own reduction sauce, or succulent prawn nigiri elevated by the distinctive touch of red miso. And of course, the sushi moriawase platter should not go unnoticed, offering a delightful assortment of delicacies, including wafu uramaki and the delectable salmon karaage futomaki, among other enticing variations.

In this moment, Hotaru urges you to behold the luminous fireflies, as they unveil a spectacle of unparalleled radiance. For, as the poet Gioconda Belli muses;  “Time has drained us of our own luminescence, yet the darkness continues to be filled with the eternal glow of fireflies.”

Report by Melissa McCrow

Article copyright ‘24/7 Valencia’

Hotaru

Calle de Cádiz 48,

46006, Valencia

Tel: +34 722 63 25 59

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