Hita Yakisoba: The Soul Food of Hita City, Oita Prefecture

Enjoying lunch at Mikyu, a renowned spot for Hita Yakisoba, the soul food of Hita City. - As soon as I entered the restaurant, I noticed many locals ordering large portions of yakisoba, which made me wonder if the regular portion might be too small. However, there was no need to worry—the regular size was already quite filling. I ordered the "yakisoba with raw egg" in the regular size. - The homemade noodles are perfectly coated with a special sauce, and the generous amount of bean sprouts, almost equal to the noodles, is a delightful touch. The crunchy bean sprouts and the crispy, slightly firm yakisoba blend beautifully with the sweet and savory sauce that never gets old. The noodles have a chewy texture rather than being overly firm, which is incredibly satisfying. The raw egg adds a mild, creamy flavor that I really enjoyed. - I also ordered a side of ramen soup, which had a strong pork flavor typical of tonkotsu broth. Unfortunately, I couldn’t finish it, but I imagine it’s a treat for those who love that distinct taste. - The unique crispy and chewy texture of Hita Yakisoba, achieved by grilling it on a hot iron plate, is a major reason for its popularity. Hita is home to many restaurants serving yakisoba, and this local specialty has now gained recognition nationwide.