Kanazawa’s Soul Food “Hanton Rice”! 4 Recommended Local Restaurants

Hanton Rice is a local Western-style dish originally served only in Kanazawa City. It typically consists of omurice topped with fried white fish or shrimp and a generous amount of tartar sauce.

Due to its hearty portions and diverse flavors, it has become a popular menu item among local business people, and now many tourists visit Kanazawa specifically to try Hanton Rice.

In this article, we will introduce the origins of Hanton Rice, a local food beloved in Kanazawa for over 50 years, and select famous restaurants that will make your cheeks fall.

What is Hanton Rice?

Hanton Rice has gained national fame as a local B-grade gourmet through TV, magazines, and the internet.

It has now become one of Kanazawa’s signature soul foods, alongside Kanazawa curry and Kanazawa oden.

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At first glance, it might seem like just another omurice, but each restaurant’s unique take makes this dish stand out.

First, let’s explore the charm of Hanton Rice, which started in a Western food restaurant and spread throughout Kanazawa.

1. What is Hanton Rice?

The basic form of Hanton Rice consists of butter rice seasoned with ketchup topped with a thin omelet, then further topped with fish fry, plenty of ketchup, and tartar sauce.

This basic form is introduced because, under the omelet, it could be white rice or fried rice instead of ketchup rice.

Also, the fry is not limited to white fish or seafood like tuna shrimp; some restaurants use pork cutlet or fried chicken.

In essence, the common elements of “Hanton Rice” are the “thin omelet,” “fry,” and “tartar sauce.”

It is renowned as a rich and hearty menu item.

2. The Origin and History of Hanton Rice

Hanton Rice was born in the late 1960s.

When the president of the now-defunct legendary bakery “German Bakery” opened a restaurant in Katamachi, he devised Hanton Rice as a signature menu item.

This new Western dish captured the stomachs of students and young business people, becoming one of the popular menus of German Bakery.

Eventually, several chefs who left German Bakery added Hanton Rice to the menus of their new restaurants, spreading it throughout Western food establishments in Kanazawa.

Now, it is offered not only in the Kaga and Noto areas but also in parts of Toyama Prefecture.

Each restaurant innovates with its unique seasoning, so while the name is “Hanton Rice,” the contents can vary significantly.

Some restaurants serve it under the name “Hanton-style Rice.”

3. The Mystery of the Name

There are various theories about the origin of the unusual name “Hanton Rice,” but it is said to be derived from “Han” of Hungary and “Ton,” which means tuna in French.

The connection to Hungary in the name comes from the use of butter rice seasoned with paprika, a common ingredient in Hungarian cuisine, in the original version of Hanton Rice.

It is also said to be taken from a Hungarian home dish called “Rántott tonhal” (fried tuna), where fried tuna is served with tartar sauce and rice sprinkled with paprika and salt.

Interestingly, the “Ton” in the word “Tonhal,” which means tuna in Hungarian, is believed to have influenced the origin of the name Hanton Rice.

Recommended Places to Eat Hanton Rice Locally

Here, we introduce must-visit restaurants serving Hanton Rice for those visiting Kanazawa.

1. Grill Otsuka

Located just a bit off the bustling Million Stone Street, which passes through Korinbo, Kanazawa’s most lively district, and the tourist-frequented Omi-cho Market.

Nestled near the back of Tokyu Square, this restaurant is famous for its Hanton Rice and has an old-fashioned and chic appearance that could easily be missed without its white sign overhead.

Upon entering, you are greeted with numerous autographs of gourmet reporters, and the pure white tablecloths convey a sense of classic Western dining culture.

Since its establishment in 1957, it has been beloved by the locals and is so popular that there are often lines during lunchtime. If you have a preferred seating area, it’s recommended to head out early.

The perfect combination of runny eggs and crispy fry

The Hanton Rice here is characterized by the contrast between the runny eggs and the crispy fried items. The melding of flavors created by placing freshly fried items on the soft eggs draped over rice is the secret to its popularity.

The generous amount of homemade tartar sauce and ketchup gives a rich, slightly dense flavor.

Served on a large stainless steel plate, its rounded, three-dimensional appearance is visually appealing.

Underneath the three eggs’ worth of runny omelette is plain ketchup rice mixed with butter rice.

The fried items, which add a flavor twist, include two pieces each of “Ton” (tuna) and shrimp, originating from the name “Hanton.”

The portion is substantial, and it’s recommended to order a small size for those who prefer less, with prices at 980 yen for a small and 1,030 yen for a regular size (both prices include tax). For those who want more, an extra 150 yen will get you a large serving.

If you prefer a luxurious Hanton Rice with only shrimp fry, a small size with four shrimps is available for 1,030 yen, and a regular size for 1,080 yen (both prices include tax).

Another must-try is the “Cream Soup” for 520 yen (tax included).

It might look like a regular potage, but it’s actually a labor-intensive dish based on “sauce velouté” made with a fish stock (fumet de poisson) extended with butter and flour. The addition of onions, milk, and cream adds a rich sweetness and savoriness, showcasing the chef’s skills.

Please try the flavors of this historic Western-style restaurant in Kanazawa.

1. Katsunoya

Located opposite the bustling Omi-cho Market in Kanazawa, on the basement level of Meitetsu M’za, this restaurant offers steaks and Hanton Rice.

Being part of Meitetsu M’za, a popular shopping mall, the restaurant has a casual atmosphere that makes it easy to drop in. The charming orange tables with bench seating on one side include three tables for two and four tables for four, making it convenient not only for meals with friends but also for families with small children.

There are also seven counter seats, great for quick lunches or dining alone.

The restaurant gets busy with lunchtime diners around 11:30 am. If you’re planning a lunch visit, it’s recommended to go right after opening at 11 am or after the lunch rush at about 1:30 pm.

There isn’t a particularly crowded time in the evening, but since it closes early at 9 pm, it’s best to visit with some time to spare.

Enjoy Hanton Rice with your choice of steak or hamburger

The “Kanazawa Hanton Rice” for 1,210 yen (tax included) is known for its fluffy omelette hiding ketchup rice that’s unusually loose and light, a contrast to the usually dense homemade version.

The portion topped with crispy fried shrimp and plentiful homemade tartar sauce has a significant presence. The elongated, crispy fried shrimp are satisfying to eat, and the taste is enhanced when combined with the tartar sauce.

The meal also includes a refreshing side salad, adding great value.

The original menu item “Steak Hanton” for 1,650 yen (tax included) looks like an omelette over rice topped with steak. However, the rice beneath the egg is a fragrantly sautéed garlic rice.

You can choose between sirloin and fillet for the steak, which is skillfully cooked to be tender and juicy. It’s served medium-rare by default, the optimal doneness for flavor.

Other types of Hanton Rice available all year round include “Tonkatsu Hanton (Fukui Bulgara Rice style)” and “Shiro Ebi Hanton,” each for 1,210 yen, and “Hamburger Hanton (Cheese Hamburger)” for 1,650 yen (all prices include tax).

Seasonal specials include “Unagi Hanton” in the summer and “Oyster Hanton” in the winter menu, each for 1,650 yen (tax included).

This restaurant is definitely worth a visit each time you are in Kanazawa.

Home Cook Wakabayashi

Located near the Urokamachi intersection along Honda-dori, close to Saiou Elementary School, this Western-style eatery specializes in meat dishes and is run by a butcher.

Despite its slightly aged exterior, the white walls with rose pink and peppermint green accents are charming.

Inside, there’s a long counter with 7 seats and four raised four-seater tables, ideal not only for dining with friends but also convenient for families with small children.

As it’s a casual place opened by a local butcher, it has a very populist appeal.

With “Home” in its name, it’s a place where you can relax and linger.

Surprisingly affordable yet exceptionally delicious

The attractively plated “Hanton Rice” is a steal at just 800 yen (tax included)!

However, the portion might be more suited for men—it’s quite substantial.

The rice is a ketchup-flavored chicken rice packed with mushrooms and onions.

On top of this, there’s a thin omelette, a fried white fish fillet, unexpectedly accompanied by a wiener sausage and cucumber, all smothered in plenty of tartar sauce.

The crispy on the outside and fluffy inside fish fillet paired with the house-made tartar sauce is a delight.

It also comes with pickles and miso soup, ensuring even active guys will be full.

There are two other variations of “Hanton Rice”.

One is the “Tonkatsu Hanton Rice” for 900 yen (tax included), topped with a thick slice of tonkatsu.

The crispy-coated, juicy, and tender tonkatsu reflects the butcher’s expertise.

Also, the “Ebi Fry Hanton Rice” for 750 yen (tax included) is a regular favorite.

The shrimp are impressively large, offering a sense of luxury.

Both dishes use the same type of ketchup-flavored chicken rice loaded with ham and onions as the regular Hanton Rice.

There’s also a unique specialty, “Hanton Spaghetti” for 900 yen (tax included), where the typical chicken rice is replaced with spaghetti, another must-try original.

NO SIDE (No Side)

This hidden cafe dining spot is located on a backstreet behind Hotel Nikko Kanazawa, near Kanazawa Station, set in a renovated old house blending chicly into the streets of Kanazawa.

The interior is simple and serene, split between the first and second floors, each with its own seating area.

The first floor features an open kitchen with four seats at the counter and a combination of two-seater and five-seater tables, perfect for individuals or small groups.

On the second floor, there are two three-seater tables, one four-seater table, and a semi-private booth for two by a large window.

This floor can be reserved for groups of 8 to 12, making it ideal for small parties or gatherings.

Five types of toppings to choose from for a fun and delicious signature dish

The most popular dish here is undoubtedly the “Hanton Rice”!

It features slightly under-seasoned ketchup rice enveloped in a well-cooked omelette.

Even without any fried toppings, this dish alone seems filling enough, offering ample volume.

The price varies depending on the topping chosen, but opting for “White Fish Fry” Hanton Rice costs 950 yen each (tax included).

If you prefer large “Shrimp Fry” or “Tonkatsu”, those are available for 1,000 yen each (tax included).

Each option guarantees a hearty meal, but the tonkatsu topping, which includes a whole slice, is particularly substantial.

The white fish topping offers a lighter option.

This cafe dining, preserved by two generations, also excels in elaborately crafted dishes.

The classic “Omelette Rice” at 850 yen (tax included) can be served with a choice of mild demi sauce, traditional ketchup, or a special ketchup-mayo.

You can’t overlook the “Kanazawa Curry” either.

The rich and aromatic curry roux is served with a choice of toppings, accompanied by shredded cabbage, providing a style unique to Kanazawa.

Like the Hanton Rice, you can choose from “White Fish Fry,” “Chicken Fry,” or “Oyster Fry” for 850 yen each (tax included).

“Shrimp Fry” or “Tonkatsu” are available for 950 yen, allowing for a luxurious curry experience.

Be sure to try the Kanazawa curry with varying toppings for a diverse flavor experience.

MAP