#Japan #Tokyo #Five Group #smoked cheese #Snack Ranking

Cheese Takes the Crown in Smoked Snack Popularity

In an exciting reveal, Five Group, a dining company based in Musashino, Tokyo, conducted a survey among customers visiting their smoked izakayas, "Igushiya Mokkun" and "Toritonkun," from February 9 to February 28, 2026. This survey highlighted the preferences of over 2,900 patrons who experienced the smoked menu, showcasing their top choices and emerging trends in the world of smoked delicacies.

Survey Insights: Smoked Snack Ranking

The survey results unveiled that cheese dominated the ranking, securing an impressive 730 votes, far ahead of its competitors. The second favorite was lamb, garnering 272 votes, followed closely by octopus with 257 votes. Other popular smoked items included white liver, salmon, scallops, quail eggs, and smoked pickles, emphasizing a diverse range of tastes among those surveyed.

Top 10 Smoked Snack Rankings:
1. Cheese (730 votes)
2. Lamb (272 votes)
3. Octopus (257 votes)
4. White liver (255 votes)
5. Salmon (245 votes)
6. Scallops (242 votes)
7. Quail eggs (231 votes)
8. Smoked pickles (177 votes)
9. Pork tongue (150 votes)
10. Bacon (137 votes)

The gap between cheese and the runner-ups underscored its status as a staple smorgasbord delicacy, cherished for its rich flavors. The findings signal a strong interest in enjoying various smoked ingredients, as patrons wish to savor multiple items simultaneously.

The Delight of Variety

The survey also delved into customers' desires for a tasting experience. Many respondents expressed a yearning to explore different flavors within the realm of smoked foods, indicating a trend towards choosing assortments, like the "Full Smoked Assortment" for 1,280 yen (tax included 1,408 yen). This preference was attributed to wanting to enjoy the distinct taste variations between different ingredients, alongside a noted compatibility with alcoholic beverages, enhancing their overall dining experience.

Future interests in tasting experiences emerged, focusing on nuances like the difference between light and rich flavors, the variations in smoky aromas, and the interplay between smoked items and beverages. This interest demonstrates a growing passion among customers for elevating their food experiences.

Establishments Behind the Survey

The brands "Igushiya Mokkun" and "Toritonkun" are known for delivering high-quality smoked dishes at accessible prices, fostering an inviting atmosphere enjoyed by many. With a philosophy of creating joyful experiences through food, Five Group emphasizes low barriers to entry, welcoming guests to savor delicious smoked cuisine crafted freshly each day.

Locations of Igushiya Mokkun and Toritonkun

1. Kichijoji: Tokyo, Musashino, Kichijoji Honcho 1-22-1, Kaihei Building 3F
Phone: 0422-23-5877
Reservations Here
2. Shibuya: Tokyo, Shibuya 2-22-14, Kasuga Building 2F
Phone: 03-3406-8828
Reservations Here
3. Kokubunji: Tokyo, Kokubunji, Honcho 2-10-5, Plaza Kokubunji 3F
Phone: 042-325-7800
Reservations Here
4. Fuchu: Tokyo, Fuchu, Miyanishi-cho 2-1-8, Miyanishi Building 1F
Phone: 042-336-3360
Reservations Here
5. Chiba: Chiba, Chiba City, Chuo, Fujimi 2-22-17, Hoshino Building B1F
Phone: 043-307-1994
Reservations Here
6. Musashi Kosugi: Kanagawa, Kawasaki, Nakahara, Kosugi-cho 3-432, Musashino Santrabi Building B1F
Phone: 044-455-5540
Reservations Here
7. Noge: Kanagawa, Yokohama, Naka, Miyagawa 3-63-1, Flex Tower Noge 1F
Phone: 045-325-8130
Reservations Here
8. Nishi-Kasai: Tokyo, Edogawa, Nishi-Kasai 6-13-11, Lumiere Nishi-Kasai Building B1F
Phone: 03-6808-9153
Reservations Here
9. Kawagoe: Saitama, Kawagoe, Shin-Tomi-cho 1-19-1, Nakazawa Store 1F
Phone: 049-227-6301
Reservations Here
10. Shimokitazawa: Tokyo, Setagaya, Kitazawa 2-15-3, Nakamura Building B1F
Phone: 03-5430-5156
Reservations Here
11. Kawasaki: Kanagawa, Kawasaki, Sanda 2-3-16, Kawasaki 408 Building 3F
Phone: 044-246-9002
Reservations Here
12. Kinshicho: Tokyo, Sumida, Koto-bashi 3-8-14, Daini Kinshi Building 5F
Phone: 03-3635-5055
Reservations Here
13. Tsudanuma: Chiba, Narashino, Tsudanuma 1-2-8, Hamayuu Pasta Building B1F
Phone: 047-403-5066
Reservations Here

About Five Group

Founded in June 2003, Five Group has become a cornerstone of the Japanese dining scene, promoting high-quality cuisine and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction. The company employs over 2,300 staff and prides itself on a workplace culture recognized by various awards for being one of the top workplaces in the food industry.

For more information about Five Group, visit their official website or follow them on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.