#Japan #Tokyo #Sustainable Practices #Hotto Motto #Rice Quality

The Unique Journey of Rice in Hotto Motto

Hotto Motto, a leading takeout bento chain, prides itself on delivering delicious rice meals to its customers. As of May 2025, the company boasts 2,427 locations across Japan, showcasing its commitment to providing the freshest and tastiest rice. Recently, it unveiled a captivating campaign called '10 Stories of Rice', highlighting the meticulous processes behind its rice sourcing, production, logistics, and sales.

The Commitment to Quality Rice

Hotto Motto places great importance on rice, using only domestically produced, high-quality grains. Every piece of rice served in their establishments comes from reputable rice-producing regions throughout Japan, ensuring it is 100% domestic. This dedication allows the chain to utilize about 0.5% of the rice produced annually in Japan, approximately 40,000 tons, contributing to the sustenance of countless meals.

Sustainable Production Practices

To preserve taste and nutrition, Hotto Motto employs a unique process called 'non-wash rice'. This method retains valuable nutrients that are typically lost when rinsing rice, thus providing an environmentally friendly option that reduces water consumption and CO2 emissions.

Additionally, all rice served at Hotto Motto is a special variant called 'Kinmemai', which maintains the health benefits of brown rice while delivering the delicious flavor associated with white rice. This unique technique helps to ensure customers enjoy both taste and nutrition with every bite.

Year-Round Consistency in Taste

Understanding that the flavor of rice can fluctuate based on climate and season, Hotto Motto uses about 60 different varieties of rice, which are carefully blended to provide a consistent taste throughout the year. This ensures that the rice tastes great whether it is served hot or cold after some time.

Rigorous Quality Control

Once cooked, the rice undergoes strict quality checks involving both machinery and a trained staff member who evaluates its color, texture, and taste multiple times throughout the day—averaging over twelve quality assessments daily. With such stringent controls, only rice that meets high-quality standards reaches the restaurant's kitchens.

Efficient Logistics for Freshness

Time is of the essence when it comes to rice. Hotto Motto understands that as rice ages, its quality declines. Therefore, the company implements a logistical plan that allows for freshly milled rice to be delivered to stores within three days of processing, akin to the freshness of vegetables.

Cooking Techniques for Optimal Flavor

Every restaurant follows a detailed cooking manual designed to maximize the rice's flavor. Key steps include:
1. Soaking: Ensuring the rice absorbs water for a fluffy texture.
2. Cooking: Utilizing high heat to cook the rice quickly and allow it to steam thoroughly.
3. Fluffing: Carefully separating the grains to maintain their integrity.
4. Serving: Presenting the rice attractively to accentuate its texture.

Moreover, Hotto Motto employs gas cooking methods that reach extremely high temperatures, creating the ideal conditions for proper grain circulation—resulting in beautifully cooked rice that is both flavorful and appealing.

Continuous Freshness

In line with its philosophy of 'freshly cooked rice for everyone', Hotto Motto regularly prepares rice multiple times a day in smaller batches. This approach guarantees that customers experience the delightful taste of freshly cooked rice every time they visit.

Convenient Online Ordering

To enhance customer convenience, Hotto Motto offers online ordering services where customers can schedule their orders up to six days in advance, even reserving platters and party menus. Exclusive app coupons are also available for online orders, adding value for customers looking to enjoy their meals conveniently.

For more information and to experience the commitment to quality rice, visit the official Hotto Motto website: www.hottomotto.com