Sendai is a city known for its unique regional cuisine, which reflects the flavors and traditions of the Tōhoku region. Here are some must-try dishes and food specialties in Sendai:
1. Gyūtan (Beef Tongue)
Gyūtan, or beef tongue, is one of Sendai’s most famous and iconic dishes. The dish is typically grilled and served with rice, soup, and pickles. It has a unique, tender texture and a rich, smoky flavor, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors. Several restaurants in Sendai specialize in this dish, where it is often enjoyed with a glass of sake or beer.
2. Zunda Mochi
Zunda mochi is a sweet treat that originates from Sendai. It consists of rice cakes (mochi) topped with a paste made from edamame (young soybeans). The green paste is sweetened and has a slightly nutty flavor, providing a perfect balance to the chewy mochi. It’s often served as a dessert or snack and is especially popular during festivals and cherry blossom viewing season.
3. Sendai Miso Ramen
Miso ramen is a popular noodle dish in Sendai, known for its rich and savory broth. The soup base is made from a blend of miso and other ingredients like garlic and ginger, giving it a hearty and flavorful profile. The ramen is typically served with toppings such as pork, green onions, and bamboo shoots, making it a comforting meal for both locals and tourists.
4. Kokeshi (Traditional Wooden Dolls) Snacks
Though not a food in the traditional sense, Kokeshi snacks are often made from ingredients like rice flour and are shaped into the likeness of the traditional Kokeshi dolls that originate from the Tōhoku region. These snacks are sweet, chewy, and perfect as a gift or souvenir. They are typically flavored with sweet bean paste and are a fun, edible representation of Sendai’s culture.
5. Sasa Kamaboko (Bamboo Shoots Fish Cake)
Sasa kamaboko is a fish cake made from ground fish paste, which is shaped into the form of bamboo shoots and then steamed. It’s often served with a variety of sauces or as part of a traditional Japanese meal. Its unique shape and delicate flavor make it a signature snack in Sendai.
6. Horumon Yaki
Horumon yaki, or grilled offal, is a dish popular in Sendai and the greater Tōhoku region. It consists of various parts of the cow or pig, such as intestines, heart, and liver, which are grilled and seasoned with a special sauce. The dish is often enjoyed at casual eateries or yakitori shops and is known for its smoky, rich flavor.
7. Sendai Udon
While udon noodles are found throughout Japan, Sendai’s udon stands out for its unique thick, chewy noodles and its flavorful, soy-based broth. It’s often served with a variety of toppings such as tempura, green onions, and fish cakes. This dish is perfect for colder months, offering a warm and filling meal.
8. Karaage (Fried Chicken)
While karaage is enjoyed across Japan, Sendai offers its own take on this popular dish. The fried chicken is typically marinated in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger before being deep-fried, resulting in crispy, flavorful chicken. It's often served with a side of cabbage and a squeeze of lemon. Many restaurants serve karaage with rice and miso soup as part of a traditional meal.
9. Sake
The Tōhoku region, including Sendai, is known for its high-quality sake production. Sendai has a variety of sake breweries that produce sake with a smooth and refined taste. Sake in Sendai is typically enjoyed with meals like gyūtan, or it can be sipped during traditional ceremonies or festivals.
Conclusion
From the savory taste of grilled gyūtan to the unique flavor of zunda mochi, Sendai offers a range of distinctive local dishes that reflect the rich culture and traditions of the region. Whether you’re enjoying a warm bowl of miso ramen, tasting the unique bamboo-shaped sasa kamaboko, or sampling some fresh sake, Sendai’s cuisine provides a culinary experience that is both diverse and unforgettable.
