Summer-Ready Light Fried Dishes: GOEN's Unique Aji Fry in Jiyugaoka

As summer approaches, the trend of avoiding heavy fried foods continues to rise, creating a dilemma for many restaurants. In response to the growing demand for lighter options, GOEN, a restaurant located in Jiyugaoka, Tokyo, has introduced a refreshing take on fried food with their limited-time “Aji no Koume Yasai Tsutsumi Fry” (Fried Horse Mackerel Wrapped in Seasoned Vegetables).

The Concept Behind the New Aji Fry

Starting from May 2026, this innovative dish aims to provide a flavorful yet light alternative for those who might refrain from fried foods in the hot summer months. Reflecting the essence of summer, GOEN’s new offering embodies the slogan “Fried food you want to eat in summer,” pushing the boundaries of traditional fried dishes. The main component of the dish includes horse mackerel, carefully fried with homemade ume-shoyu, shiso leaves, and myoga, granting each bite a blend of crispy texture and fresh taste.

A Unique Preparation Technique

Unlike typical aji fries, GOEN prepares their fish by first butterflying it and then wrapping it with aromatic vegetables before frying. This technique contributes to a light aftertaste and a refreshing flavor profile, creating an entirely different experience when indulging in fried food. The fish remains tender, while the fragrant qualities of the vegetables enhance its flavor, making it surprisingly light for a fried dish.

To elevate the culinary experience further, a light mist of homemade ume vinegar is sprayed over the fry, delivering a refreshing burst of acidity with the first bite and a lingering umami from the miso as you continue to savor it. This attention to detail promotes a twofold refreshing experience, ensuring that each component harmonizes perfectly.

A Visual Treat

Visually, the aji fry is designed to impress with its aesthetic appeal. The inclusion of vibrant shiso leaves and myoga not only heightens the taste but enriches the visual allure, creating a dish that’s perfect for social media sharing. The artistic presentation of the cross-section allows diners to appreciate its colorful and structured appearance, making it an Instagram-worthy dish.

Aiming to Attract Summer Diners

During the summer months, foot traffic tends to decrease in the Jiyugaoka area, affecting many eateries. GOEN has made it its mission to attract patrons during this challenging season by redefining fried food to cater to summertime tastes. With the expertise nurtured from their tonkatsu background, the goal was to blend this culinary knowledge with the use of fresh herbs, resulting in a unique dish that’s enjoyable even in the heat.

Product Overview

- Product Name: Aji no Koume Yasai Tsutsumi Fry
- Set Price: ¥2,580
- A la Carte Price: ¥1,550
- Availability: May 2026 - Seasonal Limited Offer
- Location: Shokuji-dokoro GOEN, 2-8-8 Jiyugaoka, Meguro, Tokyo

About the Restaurant

The philosophy behind GOEN embraces creating unforgettable moments for customers through exemplary taste, service, and overall experience. Founded by Jun’ya Yokose, after gaining five years of experience in a tonkatsu restaurant, he ventured into establishing GOEN. The concept has evolved from “Creative Tonkatsu GOEN” to a full-scale dining experience that includes both lunch and dinner services.

With captivating offerings such as the limited