The Hiroshima style okonomiyaki is perfectly grilled and carefully assembled on a searing teppan griddle, with each layer bringing its own flavor and texture to the table. The famous Otafuku sauce brings all the layers together, making it a beloved dish that has nourished generations of families in Hiroshima for decades.
Hiroshima style okonomiyaki has a few distinguishing features compared to the more widely known Osaka style. It typically consists of 11 layers, including various types of vegetables, moderate portions of protein, a decent layer of carbs, and a few layers of extra flavor. The chef must pay close attention to keep each layer in order during cooking and merging all layers together.
Watching masterful chefs preparing Hiroshima style okonomiyaki behind the teppan grill adds to the dining experience. The best seats in the house are right at the counter, where you can see the chefs at work. Additionally, everyone gets their own miniature spatula (called a hera in Japanese) to cut and share pieces of the okonomiyaki, making it a fun and interactive experience.
Okonomiyaki originated during World War II, when daily living resources were scarce, especially food. A pre-war children's snack called issen'yoshoku evolved into what is now known as okonomiyaki, becoming a staple for the people of Hiroshima as they healed from the wounds of war and rebuilt their city.
The Otafuku sauce is made with over 20 types of spices and a special ingredient, dates. Otafuku's commitment to quality shows in its fan base, with a devotion to principle and integrity in both quality and the selection of ingredients. This has made Otafuku's Okonomi Sauce a must-have in every household in Hiroshima.