*All prices are tax-exclusive.
Sakuraya
First, some basic knowledge. Horse meat is also known as "sakura meat" (cherry blossom meat). There are various theories as to why, such as the fact that fresh horse meat is cherry-blossom pink, or that the season for it is when cherry blossoms bloom. Cherry blossoms are also used in the restaurant's name and logo.
"Sakura meat" is gaining popularity, especially among athletes and women. Here are its main characteristics:
・Calories: 1/3 of beef!
・Fat: 1/5 of beef!
・Vitamin B12: 6 times that of beef!
・Iron: 3-4 times that of beef and pork, more than spinach and hijiki!
・Glycogen: 4-5 times that of beef and pork!
・Unsaturated fatty acids: Lowers blood cholesterol levels and improves blood circulation!
With that in mind, let's enjoy some horse meat dishes! First, the 5-piece assorted horse sashimi for 2,399 yen. Even first-timers can enjoy the different cuts.
Enjoy the differences, such as the marbled meat that melts in your mouth, the crunchy seared tongue sashimi, and the "koune" (mane) that overflows with flavor with every bite!
Next is the rare fried sakura sirloin for 739 yen. While the horse sashimi had a taste somewhere between meat and fish, the fried chicken feels like "I'm eating meat!" Yet, it's soft and easy to eat.
According to Head Chef Tomine, horse meat hardens quickly when heated, so it's prepared rare. He used to be involved in Japanese cuisine such as kaiseki, but this is his first time specializing in horse meat. It seems he's developing new menu items that make use of his past experience!
Finally, the assorted 9-piece sakura nigiri for 2,499 yen. The chemical reaction with the vinegared rice is exquisite, and the chef proudly proclaims, "It's a perfect match!" With a total of 7 varieties, you'll savor the depth of horse meat.
The top 5 pieces in the photo are the same cuts as the horse sashimi, so please try comparing them!
We'll also introduce some other menu items not included in this meal. The select sirloin steak for 1,499 yen and the chateaubriand block sashimi (100g-200g for about 1,500-3,000 yen). These are true meat dishes to be eaten with a knife and fork.
Special! Sakura Yukke for 759 yen, Horse Toro Sushi (4 pieces) from 733 yen. As expected from a horse meat specialty restaurant, there's a wide variety of dishes.
Furthermore, we're introducing a whole range of takeout options! For those who are short on time or find it difficult to dine in, we have an extensive lineup.
Sakura Sirloin Steak Bowl 2,000 yen
Sakura Select Sirloin Steak Bowl 1,700 yen
Horse Tataki Bowl 1,200 yen
Sakura Meat Zuke Bowl 1,100 yen
Sakura Meat Fried Rice 700 yen
Special!! Horse Tongue Smoke and Caesar Salad 700 yen
Horse Tongue Smoke 1,200 yen
Horse Chorizo 800 yen
Sakura Meat Tataki 1,100 yen
Horse Toro Cake Sushi
What I felt after eating horse meat was that it had no distinct meaty smell and was light and never got tiresome. Plus, it's healthy and full of good things. So, "Let's eat sakura!"
Sakuraya is a dinner restaurant in Kyuchu, Kashima City, located at the Kyuchu Hachome intersection. Please use the parking lot in front and on the side of the restaurant.
In addition to electronic payments, they also accept regional common coupons and Kashima City Premium Vouchers!
Text and Photos: Sakurai (Community Partnership Team)
Sakuraya
Address: 7-1-1 Kyuchu, Kashima City, Ibaraki Prefecture (10 minutes by car from Kashima Stadium, 15 minutes walk from Kashima Jingu Station)
TEL: 050-8880-6996 (Reservation-only dial, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year)
Business hours: 16:00 - 23:45 (Food L.O. - 23:00, Drink L.O. - 23:10)
Closed: Every Monday and the second Sunday of the month
Website: Please use the URL or QR code below. Online reservations available.
