Discover Traditional Japanese Flavors This Autumn
This fall, a unique opportunity arrives at the Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Main Store with the opening of three exquisite shops dedicated to authentic "Wagashi" (Japanese sweets and cuisine) in the basement food floor. Each shop showcases the rich traditions and skills developed over decades, combining selected ingredients and contemporary tastes to present a fresh culinary experience. Visitors can expect seasonal bento boxes that reflect the essence of Japanese cuisine, perfect for takeout or a delightful meal on the go.
Unique Offerings to Savor
Among the highlights are seasonal bento boxes from Mikasa Kaikan, which has been honoring Japan's culinary tradition since its inception over 100 years ago. Known for its exquisite culinary offerings, Mikasa Kaikan caters to the modern palate while preserving the flavors of the past. The new takeout service launched this September allows you to enjoy Mikasa Kaikan's celebrated dishes in the comfort of your own home.
A Taste of Mikasa Kaikan's Heritage
Mikasa Kaikan originally began as a “Kakigori” (shaved ice) shop in Tokyo's Ginza in 1925, quickly earning a beloved spot among locals seeking respite from the summer heat. Over the years, the establishment diversified its offerings to include a range of Western and traditional Japanese dishes, all crafted with premium ingredients and time-honored techniques, becoming a cherished name across generations.
The new shop features an elegant selection of bento boxes depending on the season. Guests can find signature items such as roasted seasonal fish, rice cooked with seasonal mushrooms, and other tantalizing treats artfully packaged. The seasonal flavors and beautiful presentation ensure that each bento is not just a meal but also an experience to remember. For example, the special autumn rice comes delicately seasoned with fresh mushrooms, and the artistic rice shape pays homage to the traditional aesthetic of Japanese cuisine.
Exquisite Flavors at Competitive Prices
For just ¥1,891, experience the “Mikasa Kaikan Seasonal Bento,” a unique combination of various seasonal ingredients tailored to excite your palate. If you're looking for something savory and sweet, their beef roast bento, priced at ¥2,321, showcases tender Japanese beef, delicately seasoned with a dash of traditional barley miso, creating a mouthwatering dish.
Dive into the World of Bonito at Ninben
Another new opening at this celebrated venue is Ninben, a specialty store dedicated to Bonito flakes, a staple ingredient in Japanese cooking. Established in 1699, Ninben has been a vital part of Edo-Tokyo culinary culture for over 300 years. Their new shop, Ichijushunsai, focuses on providing various delicious entrees and bento boxes featuring their finest ingredient - honkare katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes).
According to the store's representatives, Ninben emphasizes traditional production methods from Kagoshima and Shizuoka, ensuring their katsuobushi undergoes multiple steps of drying and aging to maximize flavor.
Try their honkare katsuobushi and sayonara grilled fish bento for ¥1,620, guaranteed to offer a delightful taste sensation that elevates the experience of Japanese home cooking. Each dish brilliantly combines the depth of flavor from their exceptional broth with sumptuous, locally-sourced ingredients.
Celebrate Tradition with Tenta
Lastly, don’t miss Tenta, Japan's oldest sea urchin merchant, which has been crafting high-quality sea urchin products for over 200 years. Among their offerings is their signature “Shio Uni” (salted sea urchin) and various gourmet items that make perfect gifts or simply a treat for yourself. Their unique dishes highlight natural flavors without additives, ensuring the finest quality in every taste.
Each product from Tenta, including the “Uni Ahi-Jyo,” is prepared simply to allow the rich natural essence of the sea urchin to shine through, making it a delightful accompaniment to wines, cheeses, or as a luxurious pasta topping. Priced at ¥3,996 for a generous portion, this delicacy is perfect for sharing at special gatherings.
Conclusion
From the comforting bento boxes of Mikasa Kaikan to the exquisite flavors at Tenta and the authentic offerings of Ninben, there is something for every palate to enjoy this autumn at Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi. Be sure to experience these traditional delights and immerse yourself in Japan's culinary heritage. Don't miss out on this chance to embrace the rich flavors of Japanese cuisine, available for takeout, right in the heart of the city!
Note: Prices are inclusive of tax. Please check with the venues for the latest information, as product details may change.