Hokkyokusei - famous for Omu-rice (rice-omelets)
Stylish western in Taisho period
The famous rice-omelet restaurant "Hokkyokusei" started off its business as "Panya no Shokudou (Bakery's Diner)" in 1922 by Kitahashi Shigeo. It was named after the fact that it was a diner that also sold a variety of take-out breads. Why? Because Kitahashi used to work at a bread factory called Kanzakiya, which is the predecessor of Kobeya-pan; one of the big names in manufacturing bread. Back in the Taisho period, it was considered stylish to be able to eat western food at a diner. But what was even more appreciated by the customers was that all food was served for 10 sen (0.01yen), including Tonkatsu (pork cutlet), curry and fried rice with chicken.
Why not combine it?
The well known "Omu-rice (rice-omelets)" was born here. One day in 1926, Kodaka who is an owner of a rain gear shop came to the diner as usual. And his order would always be "an omelet with white rice on the side". "I can't just serve him the same dish over and over again, everyday. I have to find something to satisfy him even more." Kitahashi, in his mid 20's was eager in meeting new challenges. He wrapped ketchup-flavored rice with a thin sheet of omelet. It was a special dish that Kodaka could enjoy without worrying about his stomach troubles. "This is delicious! What is this called?" Kodaka asked. Without a moment to think the words just popped out of Kitahashi's mouth; "What's it called, hun? Well, it's a combination of omelet and rice, so why not call it Omu-rice!"
"Hokkyokusei"
In 1936 he renamed "Panya no Shokudou" to "Hokkyokusei (Polestar)". Now, they have 10 restaurants which mainly serve Omu-rice. No matter how busy they maybe, each dish is made after it is ordered. No wonder why customers come back for more.
Establishment / 1922 "Panya no Shokudou" (renamed in 1936 to "Hokkyokusei")Founder / Kitahashi Shigeo
Place of establishment / Shiomibashi, Naniwa-ku
Current Office / Hokkyokusei 2-7-27 Nishi-shinsibashi Chuou-ku, Osaka
Tel:+81 -6-6211-7829
See the detail at OSAKA-INFO
