Isesaki Monja

Developed in its own way in the weaving town of Isesaki, isesaki monja is a griddle dish long loved by children within the old penny-candy-shop culture. Alongside the standard savory version, a distinctive style of enjoying sweet seasonings has taken root here.

Highlights

Loosely mixed batter is grilled slowly on the iron plate, and you eat little by little while making a fragrant crust. In Isesaki, a dessert-like monja drizzled with sweet syrup is also popular, letting you enjoy both savory and sweet at once, a charm unique to this land. Scooping from the griddle with a little spatula is part of the fun.

Enjoying the Seasons

In the cold season, gathering around a piping-hot griddle warms the heart. Even in the heat, the fun of grilling and chatting with friends in an air-conditioned shop stays the same, a taste you can drop in for year-round.

Access and Basic Information

You can enjoy it at monja shops around JR Isesaki Station and at places evoking the old penny-candy shops. Sit around the griddle among locals and you take in the whole atmosphere of the town.

A Quick Tip

Grill a standard savory one first, then try a sweet version to finish. That way you taste both faces unique to Isesaki in one sitting.