Sendai, the capital of Miyagi Prefecture, is not just a city of historical landmarks and scenic beauty, but also a haven for food lovers. Two of the city's most iconic dishes—gyutan (grilled beef tongue) and zunda (green bean sweets)—have become symbols of Sendai’s rich culinary history. If you're planning a trip to Sendai, be sure to indulge in these local specialties along with a few other must-visit eateries that showcase the unique flavors of the region.
Table of Contents
- 1. The History of Sendai’s Famous Gyutan
- 2. Famous Gyutan Restaurants in Sendai
- 3. Zunda: A Taste of Tradition
- 4. Other Culinary Gems in Sendai
- Conclusion
1. The History of Sendai’s Famous Gyutan
Beef tongue (gyūtan) became a specialty in Sendai after World War II, when Keishirō Sano of the "TASUKE" restaurant began serving it in 1948. Inspired by Western methods, Sano created a unique style by marinating the tongue in salt and grilling it over an open flame. This simple yet flavorful preparation quickly gained popularity, making gyūtan a signature dish of Sendai. Today, it’s enjoyed across Japan in various forms, but its roots lie in post-war Sendai and Sano’s innovative cooking. Today, Sendai’s gyutan is enjoyed nationwide and is traditionally served with barley rice, oxtail soup, and pickled vegetables.
2. Famous Gyutan Restaurants in Sendai
Gyutan Kaku
For the best gyutan experience in Sendai, Gyutan Kaku stands out as one of the top-rated restaurants for this local delicacy. Specializing in charcoal-grilled beef tongue, they masterfully achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Their set meals, which include mugi-meshi (barley rice) and oxtail soup, offer the perfect way to enjoy a full spectrum of flavors typical of Sendai's culinary heritage.
Tokushige
Tokushige offers a variety of beef tongue preparations, from the traditional grilled style to roasted versions. This gives diners a chance to explore different textures and flavors while enjoying the hearty richness of Sendai’s gyutan.
Zenjirou
For a classic Sendai gyutan experience, Zenjirou is a great choice. Known for its thick cuts, which retain a satisfying chew, Zenjirou also offers an atmosphere that transports diners back to traditional Japan.
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3. Zunda: A Taste of Tradition
Another Sendai specialty is zunda, a sweet paste made from mashed green soybeans. Historically, this simple dish was a common household snack, but over time it became a renowned regional delicacy. Zunda is now enjoyed in various forms, from zunda mochi (green bean paste over rice cakes) to shakes and parfaits. Its distinct nutty flavor and vibrant green color make it a unique treat.
Zunda Saryo
For the best zunda experience, visit Zunda Saryo, a cafe that specializes in green bean sweets. The signature dish, zunda shakes, is a must-try, but their zunda mochi is equally delicious. This cafe offers a modern take on a traditional favorite, appealing to both locals and tourists.
4. Other Culinary Gems in Sendai
BOUL’ANGE
Boulange is well-known for its flaky, buttery croissants. Additionally, the bakery offers a creative twist with its beef tongue curry bread, combining Sendai’s famous gyutan with a savory curry filling for a unique local treat.
Boulange has multiple store locations across Japan, including Sendai, Sapporo, Tokyo, Nagoya, and Fukuoka.
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Kotora Yakiniku
Yonezawa, Yamagata, and Sendai beef are some of Japan's top wagyu varieties, known for their tenderness and rich flavor. For those looking to explore beyond gyutan, Kotora Yakiniku is a great spot. With a cozy atmosphere, it serves high-quality cuts of these regional beef selections, perfect for meat lovers.
Cafe comme ca
For those with a sweet tooth, Cafe comme ca is a must-visit. Known for its tart fruit cakes, the cafe showcases seasonal fruits in visually stunning presentations, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a dessert after a day of sightseeing.
Cafe comme ca has multiple store locations across Japan.
Conclusion
Sendai’s culinary scene is a testament to the city's blend of tradition and innovation. From the iconic grilled gyutan to the sweet, nutty taste of zunda, the city offers a diverse range of flavors that reflect its history and culture. Whether you’re indulging in savory beef tongue dishes or enjoying a green bean dessert at a cafe, your taste buds are in for an unforgettable journey in Sendai.
So, if you're planning a trip to Japan, make sure Sendai is on your list—not just for its scenic spots, but for its must-try culinary delights!
