The Treasure of Mie Prefecture: "Ise Ebi" — Enjoy the Exquisite Sweetness and Firm Texture!
If you're visiting Mie Prefecture, you can't miss the local gourmet delight, "Ise Ebi" (Japanese spiny lobster).
Mie is one of the top producers of Ise Ebi in the country, known for its rich umami and sweetness, as well as its firm texture.
In this article, we'll delve into the characteristics of Ise Ebi, the best season to enjoy it, delicious ways to eat it, and recommended restaurants!
What is Ise Ebi? — The King of Luxurious Seafood!
1. Characteristics of Ise Ebi
Ise Ebi is a luxurious seafood known for its splendid appearance and rich flavor.
Especially in the Ise-Shima region of Mie Prefecture, "Ise Ebi fishing" is actively conducted.
CharacteristicsLarge size of about 30cmTextureFirm and springy meatFlavorStrong sweetness and rich umamiBest SeasonSeptember to April (best in autumn and winter)Main Producing AreasMie Prefecture, Chiba Prefecture, Kagoshima Prefecture
2. Why is it called "Ise Ebi"?
The name "Ise Ebi" originates from the fact that it was abundantly caught in the Ise region of Mie Prefecture.
Additionally, it is also known as a lucky food offered to the Ise Shrine.
The Best Season and Recommended Ways to Enjoy Ise Ebi
1. Best Season for Ise Ebi
To enjoy Ise Ebi at its best, autumn to winter (September to April) is the perfect season!
Particularly from around September, when fishing season opens, through winter, the meat becomes firmer and sweeter.
2. Delicious Ways to Eat Ise Ebi
There are various ways to enjoy Ise Ebi!
① Sashimi (Enjoy the luxury of raw)
- Characteristics: Directly enjoy the firm texture and rich sweetness.
- Recommendation: Thinly slice freshly caught Ise Ebi and enjoy with wasabi and soy sauce!
② Ise Ebi Miso Soup
- Characteristics: The rich broth from the head and shells is exquisite!
- Recommendation: Simmer the whole Ise Ebi in miso soup to enjoy its superior flavor.
③ Grilled Ise Ebi (Bold barbecue!)
- Characteristics: The sweetness is enhanced by grilling it to a fragrant finish.
- Recommendation: Split the Ise Ebi in half, pour soy sauce or butter over it, and grill directly for a delicacy!
④ Ise Ebi Tempura Bowl (Enjoy the crispy batter)
- Characteristics: Enjoy both the fragrance and firm texture by making it into tempura.
- Recommendation: Some restaurants in Mie Prefecture offer luxurious Ise Ebi Tempura Bowls!
Where to Eat Ise Ebi in Mie Prefecture!
1. Ise Ebi So (Shima City)
A long-established inn specializing in Ise Ebi cuisine.
A famous restaurant where you can enjoy a full course of Ise Ebi!
- Access: 20 minutes by car from Kintetsu Kashikojima Station
- Recommendation: Ise Ebi sashimi and grilled Ise Ebi
2. Amimoto Cuisine Ikada So Yamanoue (Toba City)
A popular restaurant run by fishermen, offering fresh Ise Ebi at reasonable prices!
- Access: 15 minutes by car from Kintetsu Toba Station
- Recommendation: Ise Ebi Miso Soup Set Meal
3. Maruyoshi Shokudo (Ise City)
A casual diner where you can enjoy Ise Ebi dishes around Ise Shrine.
- Access: 10 minutes on foot from Ise Shrine
- Recommendation: Ise Ebi Tempura Bowl
Useful Information for Travelers
1. Access to Ise
- From Tokyo: About 3 hours by Shinkansen + Kintetsu Limited Express
- From Osaka: About 2 hours by Kintetsu Limited Express
- From Nagoya: About 1 hour by Kintetsu Limited Express
2. Price Range for Ise Ebi
Price Range for DishesSashimi: 4,000 yen to 8,000 yenMiso Soup: 1,500 yen to 3,000 yenTempura: 3,000 yen to 6,000 yenFull Course: 10,000 yen to 20,000 yen
3. Recommended Time of Day
- Lunch: 11:00 to 14:00 (A great time to enjoy Ise Ebi dishes at reasonable prices)
- Dinner: 17:00 to 20:00 (Recommended for indulging in a full course!)
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
- Ise Ebi is a specialty of Mie Prefecture, known for its sweetness and firm texture!
- The best season is from September to April, with various ways to enjoy it, such as sashimi, grilled, and miso soup.
- In the Ise-Shima area, there are many long-established Ise Ebi restaurants!
- It's easily accessible from Tokyo and Osaka, making it a must-try delicacy during your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I eat Ise Ebi?
A: You can enjoy fresh Ise Ebi dishes in coastal areas such as Ise City, Shima City, and Toba City in Mie Prefecture.
Q: Can I bring Ise Ebi home as a souvenir?
A: Yes! Frozen Ise Ebi and Ise Ebi rice crackers are available as souvenirs.
Q: Is Ise Ebi expensive?
A: It's somewhat pricey at 4,000 yen to 10,000 yen per lobster, but fresh Ise Ebi is worth it!
Finally
If you visit Mie Prefecture, be sure to indulge in the exquisite Ise Ebi dishes!
Sashimi and grilled dishes made with fresh Ise Ebi will surely become an unforgettable taste once you try them.
Why not enjoy authentic Ise Ebi as a memory of your trip?
