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Hatenaburger: A Culinary Adventure at Nintendo Museum

When you think of dining in a museum, you might not envision a customizable burger experience, yet that's exactly what the Hatenaburger at the Nintendo Museum promises. Operated by Smiles, this unique cafe within the museum allows patrons to unleash their creativity by crafting original burgers, boasting over 270,000 possible combinations.

A Look Inside the Nintendo Museum

The Nintendo Museum, inaugurated on October 2, 2024, is a revamped facility located in Uji, Kyoto, which was once the site of the Nintendo Uji Ogura factory operating from 1969 to 2016. This innovative museum showcases the history of Nintendo's entertainment offerings, providing visitors with a chance to learn and experience the unique philosophy that guides Nintendo's product development. More than just a display, the museum encourages engagement through its interactive exhibits and features. You can visit their official website here.

The Concept Behind Hatenaburger

Conceptualized by Smiles, Hatenaburger draws inspiration from the rich history and innovative spirit within the world of Nintendo's products. The name reflects the whimsical and unpredictable nature akin to the famous '?' blocks from the Super Mario series, where the possibilities are endless. Diners can personalize their burgers with a selection of three bun types, five main ingredients (including options for double patties), eleven toppings, and seven sauces, thereby creating a truly unique dining experience.

Visitors can choose regional specialties like Kyoto’s Kyo-Joan green onion, Manganji peppers, and shiba-zuke pickles among the toppings, enhancing the local flavor. The process of assembling a burger feels like creating a character in a video game—immersive, engaging, and ultimately, delicious.

A Taste of Japan in Every Bite

Hatenaburger isn't just about traditional burger fare; it takes beloved Japanese dishes and reimagines them in burger form. Guests can enjoy flavors inspired by cherished Japanese meals such as sukiyaki, oyakodon (chicken and egg bowl), and saikyo yaki (miso-grilled fish). To complement your meal, delightful drink options range from a tangy Peach & Cheese beverage to a refreshing Green Tea Float made with matcha from Hiraku Shinmeien, a venerable tea producer founded in 1879.

A Unique Dining Environment

The Hatenaburger cafe is designed with a playful spirit and features three distinct themed areas that immerse guests in a Nintendo-inspired experience. The journey begins at the Burger Factory Stage, echoing the nostalgic vibes of the historical factory, and progresses to a Burger Shop Stage designed to mimic a vibrant game field. The farthest area introduces a Nostalgic Stage reminiscent of 1980s cafes, filled with clever design elements, including seating made from repurposed containers and pallets that once belonged to the Uji Ogura factory.

Café Details and Operational Hours

Hatenaburger opens its doors from 10 AM to 7 PM, with the last order taken at 6:15 PM. Each Tuesday, along with the New Year's holidays from December 30 to January 3, the cafe is closed. With a seating capacity of 131, including accessible areas for wheelchair users, it's recommended to visit outside the peak hours of lunchtime (12 PM to 3 PM) to enjoy a more leisurely dining experience.

Smiles: The Drive Behind Innovation

The brainchild behind Hatenaburger, Smiles, is defined by its commitment to innovation, focusing on concept formulation, business development, food innovation, spatial design, uniform creation, character design, experience design, and communication development. Their projects stretch beyond dining, offering unique experiences that redefine traditional concepts. For more information, explore their website here and view the Hatenaburger initiative here.

In conclusion, a visit to the Nintendo Museum is not just about exploring games and history; it's also about diving into a new culinary venture that highlights creativity, culture, and fun in every bite.