Nobunaga Bananas

Last year in June, I excitedly shared my discovery of Nobunaga bananas at our local grocery store, but we didn’t buy them at the time and ultimately missed out on the taste. You probably guessed already where this post is going.

This past Sunday, while hiking the picturesque Mount Kinka—a beloved frequent ritual for Hiromi and me—we decided to treat ourselves a little. Rather than simply soaking in the breathtaking view from Gifu Castle, we ventured to the charming restaurant Le Pont de Ciel, conveniently located at the mountain’s summit. On previous occasions, we had been thwarted by its closure during our descent.

To our delight, Le Pont de Ciel was open, welcoming us with a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying a cup of tea paired with a Japanese snack. Imagine our surprise when we spotted Nobunaga bananas on the menu! Without a moment’s hesitation, we placed our order, our excitement bubbling over at the thought.

As someone who enjoys bananas as a weekly staple, I anticipated a familiar flavor; however, Nobunaga bananas pleasantly surprised me with their subtly sweet and refreshingly unique taste—a true testament to their special charm. We savored each bite along with a steaming cup of Rooibos tea, enriched with luscious berries and vibrant oranges.

The combination of the bananas and hot tea was nothing short of heavenly, especially after an invigorating hike. Relishing this exquisite treat at Le Pont de Ciel, all while taking in the breathtaking view, made for an unforgettable experience!