Cuban Sandwiches from Shabu Shabu Matsugoro to Premiere in Yokohama

Matsugoro's Cuban Sandwich: A Culinary Journey

Matsugoro's Cuban sandwich has taken the Japanese food scene by storm, marking a significant milestone with the recent sales milestone of 2,500 sandwiches in just eight days at the Ikebukuro Tobu store. Next in line is Yokohama, where food lovers can indulge in this culinary delight during the inaugural 'SOGO BREAD Market' from September 9 to 16, 2026.

Exciting Sales at Ikebukuro

During the 10th '47 Prefectures of Japan Gourmet Show', Matsugoro made its debut at a department store event. The Cuban sandwich quickly became a favorite, showcasing not only the quality of its ingredients but also the artistry behind its creation. From marinating the roast pork in a special mojo sauce to pressing the sandwich to perfection, each step reflects the passion of Chef Toshiki Fujii.

Inspired by the Movie 'Chef'

The inception of Matsugoro's Cuban sandwich is credited to the popular film 'Chef', where the sandwich is featured prominently. Inspired by the flavors presented in the movie, Chef Fujii dedicated a week to perfecting the recipe. He meticulously crafted the sandwich, layering juicy roast pork, savory ham, Gruyère cheese, and pickles in a freshly baked baguette, pressed to golden-brown perfection upon each order.

A Celebrity Favorite

Among the sandwich's ardent fans is Tetsuro Kenjo, the CEO of Gentosha. He enthusiastically supported the product during its debut and has enjoyed 'Cuban Sandwich Nights' where guests can experience the spirit of the film along with the dish. Kenjo even praised it on his social media, calling it “incredibly delicious.” He made appearances at the Ikebukuro venue to advocate for the sandwich, further emphasizing its popularity.

What to Expect in Yokohama

At the Yokohama SOGO event, attendees can witness live cooking demonstrations, making the experience interactive and engaging. The menu will not only feature the renowned Cuban sandwich priced at 1,728 yen but also includes new items like the Mentaiko Cheese Potato Sandwich and the Cajun Spicy Shrimp Sandwich, both priced at 1,512 yen. For those looking for a lighter option, half-sized versions are available, designed with special paper bags by the artistic director Akiyama Tomoyoshi.

Event Details

The 'SOGO BREAD Market' will take place on the 8th floor of the SOGO Yokohama Department Store, running from September 9 to 16. Operating hours are from 10 AM to 8 PM, with the final day closing early at 5 PM.

Attending the event not only introduces visitors to these delightful sandwiches but also immerses them in a fusion of culinary creativity and theatrical charm. Mark your calendars for this gastronomical journey that brings a slice of culinary cinema to Yokohama!