Hirotaya, Traditional Japanese Food at Sumiyoshi

Hirotaya first opened its doors in 1915, offering as their specialty bean rice. Bean rice is a common staple in Japanese households, even today, and normally consists of green peas in rice. Hirotaya’s twist on this classic comfort food, however, uses roasted soybeans, instead of the traditional green peas.

As far as I know, this is the only restaurant around Sumiyoshi Taisha, with both a long history and affordably priced traditional Japanese food.

The restaurant sits just outside of Sumiyoshi Taisha Station on the same side as the shrine.

It was pretty empty when we went, but that was probably because it was a weekday.

The restaurant is quite proud of its location near Sumiyoshi Taisha and they even offer special sets for occasions like shichi go san. They also sells quite a bit of locally produced good and crafts.

Their menu is very affordable. The Mame meshi set is just 800 yen, but you might find their portions on the small side if you are very hungry. Add on to the meal with their tempura set or sashimi set for 1,100 yen each. Still both very inexpensive deals!

Soybeans do not have a very strong  flavor so they do not over power the flavor of the rice.