If you want to enjoy local cuisine in Obanazawa City, “Sasanishiki Shokudo” is a must‑visit spot. Their signature dish, Hormone Nikomi (stewed offal), served in the warm, nostalgic atmosphere of a traditional Japanese eatery, features tenderly simmered hormone packed with flavor—so delicious that you’ll find yourself reaching for more rice. This time, I visited Sasanishiki Shokudo in person and tried their popular Hormone Nikomi. Here’s a detailed report on the restaurant’s atmosphere and the dishes I enjoyed.

What is “Sasanishiki Shokudo” in Obanazawa City?

Located in Ashizawa, Obanazawa City along National Route 13, Sasanishiki Shokudo is a long‑standing, traditional Japanese eatery. It is famous for its Hormone Nikomi Set Meal, and it’s so popular that you often see a line of customers whenever you pass by.

Back in the Showa era, this Ashizawa area had many drive‑ins (a nostalgic memory!), but today only Sasanishiki Shokudo and two other shops remain in operation.

Entering Sasanishiki Shokudo

The day I visited, it was unfortunately snowing—with an incredibly strong blizzard. A tanuki statue placed at the entrance welcomed us. Perhaps Shigaraki ware? Tanuki statues are said to bring good fortune and prosperity.

Inside the restaurant, I was surprised to find “Sasanishiki T‑shirts” for sale! (3,500 yen including tax) A delicious-looking Hormone Nikomi is printed on the back. Amazing…

A note reads, “If you’re okay with sharing a table, please let us know.” Since many customers come alone or in pairs, shared seating helps fill the gaps. That’s how busy this restaurant gets!

The restaurant has four table seats and nine tatami seating areas. This time, I chose a table seat.

Introducing the Sasanishiki Shokudo Menu!

The Hormone Nikomi Set Meal costs 900 yen (tax included). The Hormone Nikomi alone is 700 yen (tax included). (As of May 2026) Many customers order a rice bowl or set meal and add a single Hormone Nikomi on the side. Besides Hormone Nikomi, the menu also offers a wide variety of noodle dishes. Their mochi is also known to be delicious—and it’s available for takeout. Of course, I ordered their signature Hormone Nikomi Set Meal!

The Hormone Nikomi Set Meal Arrives!

Here it is—the long‑awaited Hormone Nikomi Set Meal! Perhaps because it was such a cold day, nearly every table around us had ordered the same dish. The little packet of seasoned nori tucked in the corner is somehow charming.

Let’s dig in!

The hot, tender hormone is soft, rich, and pleasantly melt‑in‑your‑mouth without being heavy. The Chinese cabbage, tofu, and green onions simmered together are fully infused with flavor. There’s no way this wouldn’t pair perfectly with white rice. On cold days, it warms your body and lifts your spirits. In summer, it’s great for stamina too.

I once heard that Sasanishiki uses fresh hormone (raw offal) rather than frozen. That’s why it becomes so incredibly tender when simmered. It makes perfect sense. Some customers even add the accompanying cold tofu directly into the pot and enjoy it together.

I thought the portion of rice might be too much, but I finished everything quickly. Absolutely delicious! On the table, various seasonings were available. The classic Maruju soy sauce dispenser—so nostalgic. I feel like every household used to have one. Hormone Nikomi would surely taste great with a sprinkle of shichimi pepper.

Hormone Nikomi is also available for takeout!

At Sasanishiki Shokudo, their famous Hormone Nikomi is also available for takeout. It’s such a popular dish that many customers stop by just to pick up takeout portions. The takeout version is packed generously, and the flavor is just as rich and satisfying as when you enjoy it in the restaurant. It’s perfect for bringing home to enjoy with rice, or even as a hearty side dish for dinner.

Whether you want to enjoy it at home or share it with family, the takeout option makes it easy to savor the beloved Hormone Nikomi anytime. The takeout container is available for 200 yen. Since it can be reused, I felt that 200 yen was quite a good deal. Of course, you can also bring your own pot or food container from home!

They even provide a takeout information flyer—very thoughtful. When placing a takeout order, the staff will ask, “Is it okay to include tofu?” This is because tofu does not freeze well, and adding cold, fresh ingredients to hot Hormone Nikomi can cause it to spoil more easily.

Store Information for Sasanishiki Shokudo

Sasanishiki Shokudo is located about 1 km south of Michi‑no‑Eki Nemaru, roughly 3 minutes by car. The restaurant has a spacious parking lot, making it easy to visit by car.

Since it’s a very popular restaurant where lines often form, visiting early is recommended.

Summary

The Hormone Nikomi set meal at Sasanishiki Shokudo continues to attract customers from both inside and outside the prefecture throughout the year. Some people come specifically for this dish, others stop by during work breaks, and of course, many local regulars visit daily.

Because of its popularity, a line often forms before the restaurant opens at 11:00 AM! You can either arrive early and wait, or visit a little later—though keep in mind that it may sell out. Sasanishiki Shokudo’s Hormone Nikomi is beloved even by people outside the local area. If you haven’t tried it yet, be sure to visit at least once.

Click here for Sasanishiki Shokudo store information