Located in Sendai’s Izumi Ward, Hinai Jidori and Niku Soba Banzan offers a delightful combination of regional specialties from Yamagata and Akita. During my visit, I indulged in their signature dishes: Cold Niku Soba and Hinai Jidori Oyako-don (Chicken and Egg Rice Bowl). Let me take you through the highlights of these flavorful dishes, showcasing the best of Tohoku’s food culture.
Yamagata’s Local Specialty: Cold Niku Soba
What is Cold Niku Soba?
Originating from Yamagata’s Kahoku Town, Cold Niku Soba is a traditional dish featuring chilled chicken-based broth served with soba noodles. Here are its key characteristics:
1. Chicken Broth
The chilled soy sauce-based broth, infused with the richness of chicken stock, is deeply flavorful and refreshing.
2. Firm and Chewy Soba Noodles
Thick, rustic-style soba noodles are used, providing a satisfying texture that pairs perfectly with the broth.
3. Topping of Chicken Meat
Slices of chewy oyadori (mature chicken) add a delicious and slightly firm bite, making each mouthful more enjoyable.
My Experience
The chilled broth was light yet rich in umami, perfectly complementing the firm soba noodles. The refreshing temperature of the dish, combined with the savory chicken, made it an absolute treat. It’s the perfect choice for hot weather but enjoyable year-round for its clean, balanced flavors.
Akita’s Luxurious Hinai Jidori Oyako-don
What is Hinai Jidori?
Hinai Jidori, one of Japan’s three premium chicken breeds, is renowned for its rich flavor and firm texture. At Banzan, the Hinai Jidori Oyako-don pairs this exceptional chicken with fresh local eggs, creating a rice bowl that is both simple and luxurious.
1. Rich Flavor of Hinai Jidori
The Hinai Jidori’s umami is perfectly highlighted by the combination of dashi, soy sauce, and mirin, creating a savory and satisfying taste.
2. Fresh Local Eggs
The eggs are rich and creamy, cooked to a perfect soft texture that blends seamlessly with the chicken.
3. Specially Seasoned Dashi
The Akita-style dashi, with its delicate balance of soy sauce and sweetness, brings out the best in the chicken and egg combination.
My Experience
The fluffy eggs, tender Hinai Jidori, and savory dashi-soaked rice came together harmoniously in every bite. It’s a comforting yet sophisticated dish that showcases the quality of the ingredients.
The Perfect Pair: Cold Niku Soba and Hinai Jidori Oyako-don
For the ultimate Tohoku culinary experience, I recommend ordering both dishes as a set. The refreshing and light flavors of the cold soba pair wonderfully with the rich and hearty oyako-don, offering a well-rounded dining experience.
Restaurant Information
• Name: Hinai Jidori and Niku Soba Banzan
• Phone: 022-343-0630
• Address: Tapio South Building 2F, 6-5-1 Teraoka, Izumi Ward, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture
• Website: Find them on Tabelog
Final Thoughts
Hinai Jidori and Niku Soba Banzan offers a rare opportunity to enjoy two of Tohoku’s most beloved regional dishes in one place. Whether you’re drawn to the refreshing taste of Cold Niku Soba or the comforting richness of Hinai Jidori Oyako-don, this restaurant guarantees a memorable dining experience. Don’t miss out on this chance to explore the flavors of Yamagata and Akita in the heart of Sendai!