A Casual Visit to Matsunoya: Finally Trying the Fried Oyster Set
Whether right outside train stations or along major roads, Matsunoya is a familiar spot that effortlessly draws you in whenever you spot one. Last time, I reviewed their seasonal fried horse mackerel (aji fry) set meal on this blog, but another dish on my wishlist—the fried oyster set meal (kaki fry teishoku)—remained untasted. So this time, I headed over to finally give it a try.
Before placing an order, I checked the official app and found a 100-yen off coupon for the 5-piece Fried Oyster Set Meal. While the regular price is 1,030 yen (tax included), I used this staple coupon to order via mobile for just 930 yen (tax included), then settled in to wait for the food.
Tasting the 5-Piece Fried Oyster Set: Crispy Breading and Rich Savory Flavor
What arrived was the complete 5-Piece Fried Oyster Set: five golden-brown fried oysters served on a wire rack, accompanied by shredded cabbage, a side of tartar sauce, steamed rice, and miso soup.
Looking closely at the plate, while the oysters aren't jaw-droppingly huge, each one has a solid, satisfying size as a main dish. Considering the regular price around 1,000 yen—and just under 1,000 yen with the coupon—the portion size feels very reasonable.
Picking one up with chopsticks and taking a bite, the light, crunchy breading gives way to the oyster's signature rich, creamy flavor spreading across the palate. There is none of the cheap, greasy aftertaste often found in budget-friendly fried food; the genuine flavor of the oysters shines through nicely.
Dipping the oysters generously into the ramekin of tartar sauce brings out a delightful combination: the tangy, creamy sauce balances the richness of the oysters, making it nearly impossible to stop eating rice. While fried horse mackerel is normally my go-to, these fried oysters were just as skillfully prepared, offering a thoroughly satisfying meal.
Summary: Recommended for a Quick, Satisfying Taste of Seasonal Oysters
Whenever you crave fried food or want to enjoy seasonal flavors without breaking the bank, Matsunoya's Fried Oyster Set is a dependable choice.
While not jumbo-sized, the five decent-sized fried oysters deliver a satisfying crunch and deep umami flavor. With app coupons offering an even sweeter deal, it's definitely worth checking out at your local Matsunoya if you're in the mood for oysters.