Hanton Rice: Kanazawa Comfort Food

Hanton rice is a local Western style dish born in Kanazawa. Buttery rice seasoned with ketchup is wrapped in a thin omelet, topped with fried white fish or shrimp, and finished with ketchup and tartar sauce. Created at a Kanazawa restaurant about half a century ago, it is now a beloved local favorite.

Highlights

The appeal is the satisfying harmony of fluffy egg, crisp fried seafood, and tangy ketchup. Each shop varies the sauce blend and the type of fry, so comparing them is part of the fun. Hearty in portion and bright in appearance, it whets the appetite.

Enjoying the Seasons

Hanton rice is a standard menu item enjoyed all year. In cold seasons the hot egg and fried topping are welcome, and in summer it is popular as a hearty lunch. Some shops offer versions with seasonal vegetables or their own special toppings.

Access and Basic Information

You can enjoy it at Western style restaurants around Kanazawa Station and in Korinbo and Katamachi. They are reachable on foot or by bus from the station, perfect for lunch between sights. Long established shops said to be the origin, along with several others, each serve their own hanton rice.

A Quick Tip

Since portions are large, sharing several Western style dishes is a fun way to go. Snap a photo before the egg collapses to keep a memento of this Kanazawa plate.