Hambagu is Japan’s unique take on the classic hamburger steak, firmly establishing itself as a culinary cornerstone. Explore its origins in Hamburg, Germany, and follow its surge to popularity during Japan’s economic boom in the 1960s. This savory delight is a harmonious blend of ground beef and pork, onions, bread crumbs, eggs, and a symphony of seasonings.
In contrast to the West’s fondness for hamburger sandwiches, Japan’s adaptation of Hambagu stands as a testament to culinary innovation. Much like ramen and curry, this dish seamlessly integrates itself into the tapestry of Japanese tastes. Its versatility shines through various renditions, from the classic demi-glace to the Italian twist with tomato sauce or the Japanese variation with grated daikon.
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds as Dishes Japan unveils the culinary treasures of Ikebukuro – UCHOUTEN and Kitchen ABC. These renowned establishments have perfected the art of crafting exceptional Hambagu, inviting you on a gastronomic adventure like no other. Immerse yourself in the flavors of this beloved Japanese creation and discover why Hambagu has earned its place at the heart of the nation’s vibrant cuisine.
UCHOUTEN (ウチョウテン)
UCHOUTEN (ウチョウテン) has a reputation for having some of the best hambagu in Tokyo. The exterior of the restaurant has a slightly old-fashioned retro atmosphere. The most popular item on the menu is the Kuroge Wagyu Hambagu served with a simple demi-glace sauce. The moment you bite into it, the juices overflow into your mouth. Juicy and crispy Menchi Katsu (ground meat cutlet) made from Kuroge Wagyu is also a popular menu item.
- Name: UCHOUTEN (ウチョウテン)
- Address: 2-36-10 Minami Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
- Phone: +81-(0)3-3982-0077
- Hours: 11:30 – 14:30 / 18:00 – 21:00
- Closed On: Sundays
- Number of Seats: 20
- Budget: Lunch: – JPY2,000 / Dinner: – JPY2,000
- Payment Options: Cash Only
Kitchen ABC Nishi Ikebukuro Branch (キッチンABC 西池袋店)
Kitchen ABC (キッチンABC) is a Japanese style western restaurant established in 1969. It has one other branch in east Ikebukuro and two other branches in other parts of Tokyo. In the storefront of the Nishi (west) Ikebukuro branch, there is a display of food samples reminiscent of the good old days of the postwar period. The menu has a wide variety of dishes to choose from, including dishes such as curry rice, hambagu, spaghetti, omu-rice (Japanese omelet rice), and so on.
- Name: Kitchen ABC Nishi Ikebukuro Branch (キッチンABC 西池袋店 )
- Address: 3-26-6 Nishi Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
- Phone: +81-(0)3-3982-1703
- Hours: 11:00 – 15:30, 17:00 – 22:00 (Monday through Friday) / 11:00 – 22:00 (Saturday, Sunday, and National Holidays)
- Closed On: Sundays and National Holidays
- Number of Seats: 30
- Budget: Lunch: – JPY1,000 / Dinner: – JPY1,000
- Payment Options: Cash Only
- Official Website (Japanese Only): https://www.kitchenabc50.com
