Iwatoya

Kyushu may be famous for its fresh fish but in reality it’s chicken that we eat the most. The people of Fukuoka enjoy more chicken per head than anywhere else in Japan – in fact we eat 5.43 kilos per person annually! Miyazaki has its free-range chicken, Oita has its tempura-styled tori-ten, and in Fukuoka we enjoy mizutaki, a chicken soup and hot-pot in one. The origins of mizutaki are unclear, but it’s been served in one form or another since the turn of the 20th century. Iwatoya, in Daimyo, has served the same family recipe (a clear broth) for 87 years. The broilers are selectively chosen in Oita and the veggies come from local Fukuoka farmers. What has changed is the actual restaurant. In 2002 they closed down for almost an entire year to build a modern 6-storey building where the old shop stood. Patrons from early days may miss the old rooms, but rest assured that despite its squeaky-clean and modern appearance, Iwatoya is still family run and, confirms the 3rd generation owner, Takada-san, serving the same time-tested recipe. In addition to mizutaki they offer beef or chicken sukiyaki, and beef or pork shabu-shabu. But let’s stay focused on the mizutaki. When you order the “mixed” set, pieces of chicken are brought to you to heat up in a clear soup. Once heated, pour yourselves a cup of broth to enjoy on its own. A waitress will then spoon in balls of minced chicken. They cook quickly, so dig in fast. Excess fats can be skimmed off the soup’s surface as required. Next, add the veggies, tofu and rice noodles. The soup just gets richer and richer. If you’re still hungry, your final choice is between adding rice or udon noodles to soak up the remaining soup. Only one warning; Iwatoya is very popular, so call for a reservation several days in advance.

1-12-38, Daimyo, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka

092-741-2022