Hello! This is RabbiTravel!!
Hello, I’m a travel blogger, and this time, I took a trip to Fukuoka’s Hakata and enjoyed the famous gourmet dish ‘Ganso Hakata Mentaiju.’ The restaurant is so popular that there is always a long line for dining in, but this time, I opted for takeout and enjoyed it with zero wait time. Let me share my experience with you!
The Joy of Traveling in Hakata
Hakata is a treasure trove of delicious food!
From tonkotsu ramen to mizutaki hot pot and motsunabe, there are countless local specialties. One dish that has been gaining significant attention recently is ‘Ganso Hakata Mentaiju.’ A simple combination of mentaiko (spicy cod roe) and rice, but with a unique and unforgettable taste. As part of my culinary adventure in Hakata, I made sure to give this dish a try.
But Hakata offers more than just great food. The city is rich in historical landmarks, vibrant yatai (food stall) culture, and even hot springs. There’s always something new to discover, no matter how many times you visit. Let me take you through my delicious journey!
2. What is ‘Ganso Hakata Mentaiju’?
‘Ganso Hakata Mentaiju’ is a dish that mentaiko lovers can’t resist. A box of perfectly cooked white rice topped with a whole piece of mentaiko marinated in a special secret sauce, served with a flavorful dashi soy sauce.
While mentaiko is often served sliced, this dish features a whole piece, offering a luxurious and satisfying taste.
Location
The restaurant is conveniently located within walking distance from Hakata Station. You can check its location using the Google Maps link below:
Menu
The menu at ‘Ganso Hakata Mentaiju’ is impressive, featuring not only their signature dish but also delicious side items and drinks.
- Ganso Hakata Mentaiju (Original)
Enjoy the classic dish with dashi soy sauce. - Aburi Mentaiju (Seared Version)
The seared mentaiko adds a wonderful roasted aroma. - Mentaiko Noodle Soup
Rich mentaiko broth with a deep and comforting flavor. - Mentaiko Dashimaki Tamago (Rolled Omelet)
A fluffy rolled omelet paired perfectly with mentaiko.
A Long Line? Not for Takeout!
The popularity of ‘Ganso Hakata Mentaiju’ is incredible, with lines that often stretch to a 1-2 hour wait, especially during lunch and weekends.
But this time, I went for takeout!
The biggest advantage of takeout is that you can make a reservation in advance and pick up your meal without waiting in line. It’s a perfect solution for busy tourists who want to make the most of their time while enjoying Hakata’s gourmet scene.
The Taste Test: Pure Delight
brought my takeout Mentaiju back to the hotel and took my time savoring it. Opening the box revealed beautifully arranged, plump mentaiko that smelled absolutely heavenly.
Pouring the dashi soy sauce and taking the first bite…
The mentaiko was moist and tender, releasing a rich umami flavor with every chew. The sweet and savory sauce blended perfectly with the fluffy rice, creating a mouthwatering harmony. The pleasant spiciness lingered just long enough to invite another bite. The takeout version maintained the same top-notch quality as dining in—absolutely no compromise in flavor.
Adorable Packaging
One of the highlights of the takeout experience was the cute packaging!
The meal came in a chic black lacquered box that exuded elegance and luxury. It was so well-made that I wanted to keep it as a souvenir. Plus, taking Instagram-worthy photos of this beautiful presentation added to the fun.
How It Compares to Other Hakata Gourmet
Hakata offers an abundance of delicious dishes, but ‘Ganso Hakata Mentaiju’ stands out as a unique experience. While motsunabe and mizutaki are great for groups, and ramen is perfect for a quick meal, Mentaiju is ideal for solo diners looking to indulge.
7. テイクアウトのメリットとデメリット
The pros of takeout? No waiting time and the freedom to eat wherever you like. The con? You miss out on eating the dish piping hot, straight from the kitchen. But in reality, the takeout version was so delicious that this small downside hardly mattered.
Conclusion
On this Hakata trip, I experienced a new way of enjoying ‘Ganso Hakata Mentaiju’ without the wait by opting for takeout. For busy travelers, this is a game-changer—you get to savor a local specialty with ease and convenience. The taste was impeccable, and the adorable packaging made the experience even more memorable.
If you ever find yourself in Hakata, I highly recommend treating yourself to this gourmet delight!
Until next time, happy travels!
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