Tokyo Weekender - September 2017

[ PROMOTION ]
Niigata has abundant
natural resources,
especially clear
water and fertile
land, making it the
number one region for production
of koshihikari rice, and one of the
top producers of sake, edamame
and a variety of mushrooms. So, it
comes as no surprise that it’s also
a foodie’s paradise, with many
local specialties you won’t find
anywhere else. To get a taste of
Niigata without a pricey train ticket,
drop by the Tabisuru Shintora
Market in Tokyo to find rural fare
that’ll make your mouth water.
The four stands, which you can
find just outside Toranomon Hills,
each have their own distinctive
menus, offering a range of delectable
delights for the adventurous
gourmet. Here’s a quick guide to
the five different Niigata cities that
are showcasing their cuisine until
the end of September.
Niigata for Foodies
GET A TASTE OF THE PREFECTURE’S CULINARY DELIGHTS AT THE
TABISURU SHINTORA MARKET IN TOKYO
NAGAOKA: AN EXPLOSION
OF FLAVORS
Nagaoka city is known for Tochio
aburaage, a deep-fried tofu pouch that
can be up to three times the size of
traditional aburaage. For lunch, try the
jumbo aburaage in the Tochio Aburaage
Don, which comes with a side of miso
soup and pickled vegetables. The Nagaoka
Bento offers a variety of smaller
dishes for those looking for a true taste
of the region. The dinner menu boasts a
selection of lighter fare, including edamame
served in a firework shell, which
is available in three different sizes. The
stand also has an extensive selection of
16 different types of sake, offering sake
lovers a chance to taste some of Niigata’s
finest brews.
16 | SEPTEMBER 2017 | TOKYO WEEKENDER