Unique, fresh, and flavorful are just some of the words that best describe Japanese food. It is no wonder that many Filipinos rave about it! The same goes for Filipino actor Robi Domingo who fell in love with Japanese culture and the wide array of delectable dishes that the country serves.

 

Here are four unique Japanese food that Robi Domingo has tried and enjoyed during his stay in northern Japan.

 

1. Gyutan (Miyagi)

 

 

Robi had the privilege of tasting gyutan right at its place of origin—in the city of Sendai, Miyagi.

 

Just like its name, which literally translates to “cow tongue,” gyutan is a plate of tender, charcoal-grilled beef tongue slices that is often served with side dishes like vegetables, oxtail soup, and white rice. However, there is more than one way of eating it. As such, while others prefer it grilled, some like it curried or stewed.

 

Nonetheless, those who have tried this memorable and mouthwatering dish would rave about its lightly salted flavor and soft texture.

 

Many places in Sendai offer premium gyutan. Robi specifically had his in a restaurant at Sendai Station.

 

2. Zunda Sweets (Miyagi)

 

 

Another Japanese dish that is native to Sendai, Miyagi which Robi enjoyed are the Zunda sweets.

 

Zunda is a coarse, sweet paste made from edamame, which are young soybeans harvested early. They are then crushed and seasoned with sugar and salt.

 

There are different types of Zunda sweets. There are the Zunda mochi or rice cakes coated with sweet edamame paste; Zunda daifuku, which is a type of rice cake with edamame filling; Zunda manju or steamed buns with a layer of Zunda; Zunda cream dorayaki or edamame filling sandwiched between two sweet flatbreads; and Zunda monaka or crispy wafers with a Zunda filling inside.

 

Because of its versatility, Zunda has become a fusion cuisine that is being incorporated into a variety of delicacies such as ice creams and cakes. As for Robi, he enjoyed a creamy Zunda shake.

 

3. Kiritanpo (Akita)

 

 

Kiritanpo is Akita’s special cuisine. It is pounded cooked rice put on a skewer and grilled.

 

There are different ways of enjoying this popular Akita dish. Some people slather it with sweet miso paste, while others like to eat it over a hot soup.

 

Kiritanpo, when served alongside a special hot pot with vegetables and poultry meat, is called Kiritanpo nabe. This is the dish that Robi particularly enjoyed at a restaurant with a very traditional atmosphere near Akita Station.

 

As Kiritanpo is Akita’s specialty, there are many restaurants in the area that serve this dish, whether you prefer to try it with miso or over a hearty hot pot of fresh veggies and Hinai chicken.

 

4. Cider (Aomori)

 

 

Located in the northernmost prefecture of Japan’s Honshu island, Aomori is best known for its top-quality sweet apples. Furthermore, the area is said to produce the largest number of apples in the entire country. It is no wonder that Aomori also makes superb ciders that is a must-try when you visit the place.

 

Everyone knows that apples are the key ingredient when making ciders. Once the fruits have been pressed, the juice will be blended and fermented.

 

There are many stores in Aomori Prefecture that offer ciders. For Robi, he was able to try and enjoy the cider from Hirosaki Kimori Cidre at Hirosaki Apple Park after he went apple picking.