The Allure of Yayoi Ken's Oita Chicken Tempura and Dango Soup
Yayoi Ken, a well-known chain of set meal restaurants in Japan, continues to expand its delicious offerings. As of March 2026, the company operates 376 locations across the country. Known for its fresh and tasty meals, Yayoi Ken is committed to sharing exciting updates on new menu items through their official social media platforms on X, Instagram, and LINE. On April 7, 2026, they introduced two enticing new dishes: the Oita Chicken Tempura Set and the Oita Chicken Tempura with Dango Soup Set. To highlight these dishes, Yayoi Ken conducted a survey among their managers nationwide, asking them to share their top recommendations for these delectable offerings.
Survey Overview
- - Participants: Managers from Yayoi Ken outlets across Japan
- - Survey Focus: Each manager selected two key points that best describe the appeal of the Oita Chicken Tempura and the Dango Soup Sets.
- - Survey Period: April 6, 2026, to April 9, 2026
Product Highlights
The star of the show is the juicy Chicken Tempura, made from thigh meat, which boasts a crispy exterior that can only be enjoyed by eating it fresh out of the fryer. This dish can be relished on its own or enhanced with traditional Oita garnishes like refreshing ponzu sauce and spicy mustard. The contrasting flavors provide a delightful taste experience that keeps the palate engaged until the very last bite. For those who wish to enjoy their meal at home, a takeout option is also available.
Meanwhile, Dango Soup, a beloved traditional dish from Oita, features a wonderfully rich broth made with local barley miso. It includes chewy, flat dumplings, along with root vegetables such as daikon, carrots, burdock, onions, and pork, creating a hearty and satisfying bowl. The gentle flavor is further enhanced by adding yuzu pepper, giving diners the opportunity to customize their taste. Dango Soup can be ordered a la carte or replaced in other set meals or rice bowls for an additional 370 yen, offering a versatile dining experience.
Prices:
- - Oita Chicken Tempura Set: 960 yen
- - Oita Chicken Tempura with Dango Soup Set: 1,190 yen
Takeout Options:
- - Oita Chicken Tempura with Rice and Miso Soup: 960 yen
- - Dango Soup (a la carte): 470 yen
- - Change to Dango Soup: 370 yen
All prices include tax. The contents may vary by location, and some stores may offer different appetizer options such as kinpira instead of tofu.
Survey Results
The survey offered interesting insights into what the managers felt were the standout features of these new dishes:
1.
Hearty Dango Soup
2.
Crisp Fried Chicken Tempura
3.
Customizable Flavor with Yuzu Pepper
Notably, the first choice was the “hearty Dango Soup,” followed closely by the crispy texture of fried Chicken Tempura and the enjoyment of adding yuzu pepper for variety in flavor. The Dango Soup, loaded with vegetables, pork, and chewy dumplings, delivers substantial satisfaction. Chicken Tempura, fried fresh upon order, ensures that diners can relish the crispiness at its best.
Manager Recommendations
- - “I highly recommend enjoying Chicken Tempura with ponzu for a refreshing taste and some mustard for a spicy kick!”
- - “For lovers of tonjiru (pork miso soup), Dango Soup is a must-try as it shares similar comforting flavors!”
- - “The combination of Chicken Tempura and Dango Soup makes for a fantastic meal that pairs perfectly with rice!”
Discover Yayoi Ken's Official App!
Stay updated on the latest products and campaigns while browsing the menu and locating nearby outlets using Yayoi Ken’s official app. The app also allows direct ordering through services like Uber Eats and Demaekan. Users can earn coupons through mini-games by collecting stamps, making it easier to enjoy Yayoi Ken at a better price.
To learn more, visit
Yayoi Ken's website.
Download the app today!