Sukiyaki is one of Japan's most iconic dishes, but did you know that there are differences between Kansai and Kanto styles? In this article, we’ll explore two famous sukiyaki restaurants—Moritaya from Kyoto and Imahan from Tokyo—and learn about the cultural and culinary distinctions of both styles. Plus, we’ll dive into each restaurant’s exquisite menu offerings and guide you on how to enjoy these meals in true Japanese fashion.
Table of Contents
- 1. The Difference Between Kansai and Kanto Sukiyaki
- 2. Moritaya: Refined Sukiyaki from Kyoto
- 3. Imahan: A Tokyo Classic in Kanto-Style Sukiyaki
- Conclusion
1. The Difference Between Kansai and Kanto Sukiyaki
Sukiyaki preparation varies greatly depending on the region.
- Kansai-style: A "dry" cooking technique, Kansai sukiyaki involves grilling the beef first before adding sugar and soy sauce directly. This method emphasizes the rich, natural flavor of high-quality beef, creating a simple yet luxurious dining experience.
- Kanto-style: This style incorporates a sweeter broth, known as warishita, made from soy sauce, sugar, sake, and mirin. The beef and vegetables are simmered in the broth, resulting in a flavor that permeates every bite.
2. Moritaya: Refined Sukiyaki from Kyoto
Moritaya, founded in 1869, is a renowned restaurant that offers authentic Kansai-style sukiyaki, alongside high-quality steaks and shabu-shabu. With a history of over 150 years, Moritaya is synonymous with quality and tradition.
Menu Highlights
Sukiyaki Sets
Each set includes appetizers, premium beef, rice, pickles, soup, and dessert.
Appetizer: Delicate portions of tofu, leafy greens, and tender roast beef.
Beef (Wagyu): Known for its marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Includes a variety of fresh vegetables like onions, simmered together to absorb the flavorful broth.
Rice and Pickles: The delicious rice contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the sukiyaki, enhancing the overall taste experience. The tender beef, lightly dipped in the egg yolk, creates a smooth and creamy pairing. Additionally, rice and soup can be refilled at no extra charge, allowing you to savor every bite.
Dessert: Seasonal fruits and cakes that perfectly conclude the meal.
Steak and Shabu-Shabu
In addition to sukiyaki, Moritaya offers excellent steak and shabu-shabu options, making it a versatile dining destination.
Location and Reservation Information
Moritaya has branches in Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo. For detailed information about each location, you can visit their official website. Simply click on the "WEB予約" option at the bottom left of the site to make an online reservation.
Get your Japan eSIM now! Enjoy high-speed internet and share your sukiyaki journey in real-time!
3. Imahan(今半): A Tokyo Classic in Kanto-Style Sukiyaki
Established in 1895, Imahan is a quintessential sukiyaki restaurant in Tokyo, celebrated for its Kanto-style sukiyaki that combines flavorful warishita broth with premium beef.
Menu Highlights
Sukiyaki Sets
Each set includes appetizers, premium beef, rice, pickles, soup, and dessert.
Appetizer: Traditional Japanese starters like fish roe and seaweed.
Beef: Richly marbled, cooked to perfection
Vegetable Plate: A colorful array of ingredients, including tofu, greens, and mushrooms.
Lightly dip the beef into the raw egg yolk to experience the perfect harmony between the richness of the beef and the smooth, creamy texture of the yolk. This is one of the classic and beloved ways to enjoy sukiyaki.
Egg on Rice: A signature dish where the remaining broth is mixed with egg and served over rice.
Steak and Shabu-Shabu
In addition to sukiyaki, Moritaya offers excellent steak and shabu-shabu options, making it a versatile dining destination.
Location and Reservation Information
Currently, Ningyocho Imahan has branches in Tokyo, Yokohama, Haneda Airport, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. For detailed information on each location, you can visit their official website. Once on the site, you can find store details and make a reservation online by selecting the "WEB予約" option.
Enjoy sukiyaki, and make sure your internet is unlimited too! Get the Japan eSIM data plan now!
Conclusion
Whether you prefer the grilled richness of Kansai-style sukiyaki or the flavorful, sweet broth of Kanto-style, Moritaya and Imahan offer exceptional experiences that celebrate the best of Japanese cuisine. Both restaurants meticulously craft their dishes to highlight premium ingredients, presenting sukiyaki as more than just a meal but a cultural experience.
Next time you're in Japan, be sure to visit these renowned establishments and savor the unique flavors of their sukiyaki offerings!
