Visiting the Fried Chicken Specialist "Karayama"! High Expectations for Non-Fried Teppan Menu Options
Karayama is well-known as a specialty fried chicken restaurant. One of its main attractions is how quickly meals are served, allowing you to enjoy a fresh, piping-hot set meal even when you are busy. This time, I visited the restaurant specifically to try a teppan (iron griddle) menu item I had been curious about ever since its release. While Karayama is strongly associated with karaage (Japanese fried chicken), they have recently been expanding their lineup with dishes like teppan-grilled pork. As soon as I took a seat inside, I ordered the dish I came for.
Rich Tartar Sauce and Juicy Meat! Trying the "Tartar Nanban Set"
What arrived was the sizzling and savory "Tartar Nanban Set" (1,089 yen including tax). On the hot teppan griddle was aromatically grilled pork, lavishly topped with an overflowing amount of homemade tartar sauce, green onions, and garlic chips.
Taking a bite, the savory aroma of the special soy sauce marinade combined with the rich depth of the tartar sauce, spreading the savory meat flavor throughout my mouth. The crispy garlic chips added a delightful texture. Best of all, it stays piping hot on the teppan griddle until the very last bite.
The pairing of pork and tartar sauce is fantastic, making it hard to stop eating. However, when eating it together with the cabbage placed underneath, I personally felt that a ginger-pork style sauce might pair slightly better with the vegetables. That said, as a non-fried chicken option, it offers extremely high quality and a very satisfying portion.
At Karayama, it is a staple tradition to receive a "100 yen discount coupon" at checkout for your next visit. I was able to use the coupon I got during my previous visit to enjoy a nice deal this time as well.
[Summary] Not Just Karaage! Highly Recommended for a Hearty Teppan Griddle Meal
Karayama's "Tartar Nanban Set" is a highly satisfying dish featuring savory soy sauce marinade and generous tartar sauce that pairs perfectly with white rice. Its quality proves that choosing something other than fried chicken is a great option, and I hope this teppan griddle series continues to thrive as a menu standard. If you are looking to enjoy a hearty, piping-hot meat dish, why not give it a try?