Discover the Rare Flavors of Adatara no Megumi Rice at dancyu Shokudo

Experience the Unique Taste of Adatara no Megumi Rice

Fukushima's Otama Village, nestled at the foothills of the beautiful Adatara Mountain—a part of Japan's famed Hundred Mountains—has cultivated an exceptional brand of rice known as Adatara no Megumi. This region benefits from rich soil, abundant melting snowwaters, and a climate characterized by significant temperature fluctuations, perfect for growing delicious rice. The standards for producing this prestigious brand involve various eco-friendly farming practices, with one notable requirement being a certification from the Midori Certification program, ensuring sustainable agriculture.

Among the criteria for this brand, the emphasis on achieving a taste value of 88 or higher stands out. For context, the typical standard for rice in Japan is around 70, with a score of 80 recognized as good tasting. However, Adatara no Megumi aspires to reach an impressive 88. Consequently, the rice that meets this esteemed classification is incredibly scarce—only 0.03% of the new rice from Otama Village qualifies as Adatara no Megumi Special, while rice with a taste value of between 84 and 88 barely makes up 0.1%—making it a truly rare find.

In a small village with a population of around 9,000, this premium rice has made quite a name for itself. The Adatara no Megumi Special consists solely of the coveted Koshihikari variety, while the regular Adatara no Megumi includes Koshihikari as well as another top Fukushima brand called Fuku Warai. Unsurprisingly, the pricing reflects its rarity; a 5kg bag of the special variety can go for 6,300 yen, which is significantly over the current national retail average price of new rice by 2,000 yen.

Now, Tokyo residents have the opportunity to savor this ultra-rare rice at dancyu Shokudo, a culinary initiative by the food media company President Inc.. From October 30 to November 12, all meals at the dancyu Shokudo, located within the Gransta Yaekita complex at Tokyo Station, will feature Adatara no Megumi Special (rice with a taste value above 88) as their rice offering.

In addition to enjoying this exquisite rice, attendees will also receive special small dishes designed to complement the flavors of Adatara no Megumi. The first week will showcase a creation called Shirasu no Koumi Jyou by renowned chef Tomoyuki Wakiya, owner of Wakiya Issho Biteah and Truandotte Garyu, which is a flavor-infused shirasu (young sardines) sauce. In the second week, celebrated recipe inventor Noriko Shirai will provide her own dish, Beef and Burdock Oil Tsukudani, meant to elevate the overall dining experience.

Moreover, there’s an exciting giveaway campaign for diners. Those who purchase and enjoy a meal featuring Adatara no Megumi at dancyu Shokudo during this limited period can share their experience and pictures on social media. Ten lucky participants will win a 2kg package of Adatara no Megumi rice.

Don’t miss this wonderful chance to taste this rare premium rice and perhaps even take some home for your own culinary endeavors!