Takoyaki is one of the quintessential Japanese snack foods — a batter ball filled with octopus bits and other goodies, grilled crisp on the outside but still gooey on the inside. First invented in Osaka, it quickly spread to other parts of the country — including Tokyo, where the best chain of stalls is Tsukiji Gindako.
But even among Gindako stores, there is one that stands out among the rest, according to Retty Gourmet News on Livedoor. Lauded as the best place in Tokyo to get takoyaki and whisky highballs after a hard day’s work, Tsukiji Gindako Shimbashi is rumoured to be far and above her sister stores in this is ubiquitous takoyaki chain.
The secret, many say, is the talent of the store’s owner — Mr. Tatsuya Hayashi. Fans claim that even after trying other stores, his takoyaki is the best. On a good day, his store can sell upwards of 3,000 pieces of takoyaki. Using only the finest ingredients, and coupled with his superb technique, it’s no wonder this Gindako store is so popular
Mr. Hayashi also has special recommendations to make a great bowl of takoyaki even better! He suggests ordering a whisky highball to go with the piping hot octopus balls. The refreshing flavor of the whisky and ginger ale are a good match for the crisp takoyaki.
He also suggests trying the takoyaki without any of the usual toppings — so you can enjoy the many layers of flavour that sometimes get lost underneath the sauce and mayonnaise. Just ask the chef to omit the toppings on your next order, so you can appreciate their skill in cooking the perfect ball of takoyaki.
Last but not least, he recommends trying out the seasonal menu. The chefs sometimes get creative with whatever’s in season. Currently, Tsukiji Gindako Shimbashi store is running a special on takoyaki with lemon — a slice of lemon, as well as a lemon dipping sauce accompanies the takoyaki. It gives the balls a light and refreshing flavor that’s perfect for summer!
Just talking about all that takoyaki is making us hungry! If you’re ever in Tokyo, why not give Tsukiji Gindako Shimbashi store a try?
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