6 stories with 6 dishes that go grumbling my tummy with a crave. The Kamogawa Food Detectives brought me to travel through the seasons of Kyoto along the narrow Shomen-dori Street where a small diner hidden without a signboard. Managed by both Nagare Kamogawa, a retired police detective and his daughter, Koishi, this diner was said could recreate a dish just from the taste of one’s memories; an impossible request yet was mastered with details and sincerity, and this is how Hideji, Nobuko, Tomomi, Suyako, Asuka and Hisahiko came to tell their stories.

I love the seting a lot although it was much revolved only inside the diner yet I could see all the scenic Kyoto through its narration; those mountains and temples, the freezing midwinter air to spring with rainy season and swarmed of tourists for cherry blossoms— too enticing as well it fits the 6 dishes with its familial and friendship stories. I like Nagare’s exposition and how his part linked with a grief and loss backstory. I do wonder how he did it though; to ‘investigate’ those recipes and ingredients with too little infos then cooked it as exactly as requested and amazingly nailed at it.

Charming and nostalgic but can be too expected as well for how all stories mainly revolved nearly in the same emotional arcs— of lost love, longing and a forgotten past that came back as an afterthought. Still gripping much as I love that pinch of mystery and ways of Nagare unraveled the unexpected; wish I can get more behind the scene of his investigation but I guess those summary sort of revelation while tasting the dishes were compellingly admissible too. Love Koishi for being the sidekick— their interactions and small bickerings were too cute!

I enjoyed the warmth and how affecting each stories were told and explored; out of 6, I fancy both Nobuko and Hisahiko parts the most— esp Hisahiko, I was nearly teared up. A great light and heartwarming read if you pleasure something differ for sleuthing related plot. Hopefully book 2 could be translated to English soon because I am anticipating!

4/5 stars.

Thank you Pansing Distribution for the gifted review copy!