Watari Harako Meshi Salmon and Roe Rice

Harako meshi is an autumn local dish handed down in the town of Watari in southern Miyagi. Rice is cooked in the broth of simmered salmon, then topped generously with flaked salmon meat and glossy salmon roe. Enjoying the parent as rice and flaked meat together with the child as roe in a single bowl makes a lavish dish unique to this land.

Highlights

The greatest attraction is the tinted rice steeped in the flavor of salmon. Cooking it in the broth carries the taste of the fish into every grain. Shining roe is scattered on top like jewels, giving a bowl that is gorgeous to behold. The moment the rice, flaked meat, and roe mingle in your mouth is irresistible.

Enjoying the Seasons

Harako meshi comes into its own in autumn when salmon swim up the Abukuma River. During this season shops around Watari serve a bowl at its peak. Tasting rich autumn salmon and the popping texture of mature roe at once is truly a seasonal feast. It is worth a visit alongside an autumn outing.

Access and Basic Information

Watari lies south of Sendai and is reached by the JR Joban Line. In the Arahama district and at local cuisine restaurants and diners around town, harako meshi is served. Autumn weekends grow crowded, so allow plenty of time when you visit. Roadside stations and direct sales shops may offer it as well.

A Quick Tip

The balance between the saltiness of the roe and the flavor of the rice is exquisite, so first taste it as it is. Visiting during the peak season lets you meet the richest salmon of all. Enjoying it while still warm is the best way of all.