I went to the Hiroshima Okonomiyaki restaurant “Micchan Sohonten,” which opened on the first floor of the popular tourist spot Orizuru Tower on March 23, 2024.
(Note: “Okonomiyaki” is a Japanese savory pancake containing a variety of ingredients, commonly associated with the Hiroshima region.)
Inside the restaurant, sophistication and Showa retro atmosphere mingle
The exterior of the store showcases its presence with Micchan’s noren curtain. Upon stepping inside, you are greeted with a clean interior, but at the same time, you can feel the atmosphere of Showa retro.
Showa-style signs are laid out above the counter, and the seats are customized beer cases. It’s a space where those born in the Showa era can feel a nostalgic atmosphere.
Posters of the founder, Mr. Ise Mitsu, and the second generation, who inherited the name, adorn the interior, conveying the refined passion for okonomiyaki.
A huge iron plate is installed on the counter, and the sight of multiple chefs cooking simultaneously gives a powerful impression. Customers are also eagerly watching the scene with great interest.
The clientele consists mainly of tourists, and there are even some Westerners who are unfamiliar with okonomiyaki culture. They hold a spatula in their right hand and chopsticks in their left, enjoying okonomiyaki with a sense of delight despite their confusion.
Okonomiyaki as it is from a famous restaurant
The okonomiyaki at Micchan Sohonten features a crispy texture of the noodles. The finish is exquisite, with the cabbage layers steamed well and complementing the texture of the noodles, allowing you to truly appreciate the deliciousness. Furthermore, the original okonomi sauce blends well, making each piece satisfying.
The popular okonomiyaki among tourists is a menu composed of the recommended toppings of the shop. The DX Special includes green onions, squid tempura, rice cakes, raw squid, and raw shrimp, making it a deluxe okonomiyaki that fills you up quite well when eating alone.
For side dishes, tourists will be delighted to find specialties of Hiroshima such as grilled oysters and grilled conger eel.
While there were some parts where the operation during peak hours seemed inexperienced, the staff’s attentive service and the satisfying taste of the dishes made it a lively and enjoyable restaurant.
[Micchan Sohonten Orizuru Tower Store]
Business Hours: 11:00 to 20:00
Closed on Tuesdays Seats: 74 seats (54 tables, 16 counter seats, 14 terrace seats)
Address: 1-2-1 Otemachi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City, Orizuru Tower 1F
