Shohei Ohtani's influence can even be seen off the field as his new home of Dodger Stadium opened a takoyaki stand after the star professed his love for the deep-fried balls of batter and octopus. The concession stand is run by major Japanese chain Gindaco and offers Americanized versions of takoyaki with flavors such as Cheese & Salsa, Cheese & Guacamole, and Tempura & Sweet Soy Sauce.
Takoyaki purists may scoff at anything other than octopus meat and a specialized tangy sauce, but more than a few people in Japan saw these new flavors and thought, “I’d like to try that too…”
Now, it looks like Gindaco has responded and will bring the Cheese & Guacamole takoyaki to the shores of Japan for three days only. Starting on Friday, which just happens to be Ohtani’s 30th birthday, the Dodger-Stadium-style takoyaki will be available at all Gindaco stores across the country, with the exception of stadium and event stands.
Although the ingredients won’t be exactly the same as the American counterparts, the octopus balls will be topped with cheddar cheese to give it that U.S. feel. The guacamole will be prepared in-store and is said to go easier on the seasonings to match the typical Japanese palate better. Finally, some fried onions are placed on top for a little added zing.
Thankfully, the prices in Dodger Stadium, where a serving of six takoyaki sells for $13.99, will not be imported to Japan. Instead, you can get eight takoyaki for 780 yen which works out to about a 75-percent reduction in price per ball. On top of that, anyone with a Gindaco stamp card on those days will get double stamps that go towards a free order of takoyaki.
So, be sure to stop by Gindaco between July 5 and July 7 to get a rare taste of American takoyaki in Japan, and don’t forget to keep on rooting for Ohtani as he fights for a World Series Championship. Hopefully we’ll get the salsa one if he does that.
Source, images: Gindaco
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10 Comments
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falseflagsteve
I only eat Takoyaki once a year or so, much prefer okonomiyaki myself you see. The toppings in the article seem rather queer and wouldn’t suit my palate.
BertieWooster
That ghastly artificial orange stuff in the photo is cheese?
factchecker
Yuck
Speed
In Southern California, three rolled tacos with guacamole and cheese is de rigueur especially after drinking. This is the "taco"yaki version of that but I have a feeling it's just not the same.
bass4funk
It’s just a matter of time before it goes out of business.
SapperJon
I don't understand how Cheddar cheese gives it that U.S. feel. Cheddar cheese originates from Cheddar Gorge, Somerset in England.
I've had Takoyaki every time I've visited Japan and enjoyed it the traditional way each time. I learnt the first time that the centre is hot, I burnt my tongue. I especially like the way Bonito Flakes wave in the heat.
bass4funk
Yes, but we have our original-style cheeses as well. It would help if you went to Wisconsin for some of the best cheese in the country. American cheesemakers have crafted unique creations such as Monterey Jack, a mild, creamy cheese that originated in California; Pepper Jack, which adds a spicy kick with the inclusion of jalapeños and other peppers; and Colby, or own cheddar style, sharp and mild, a moist, open-textured cheese with a mild flavor from Wisconsin. Other distinctive American cheeses include Brick cheese, known for its medium-soft texture and robust taste, and Hoop cheese, a traditional Southern variety with a tangy, sharp profile. These cheeses exemplify the innovation and regional influences that define American cheese-making.
Norm
The concession stand in Dodger Stadium or the whole chain? Or is it a MyPillow moment?
Chico3
I love takoyaki, but I do agree with you. That concoction does look a bit queer. The next time I'm at the stadium, I'll be sure to put the rest of the toppings, with the exception of the takoyaki sauce on the side, so I can enjoy the toppings with tortilla chips and salsa. Guacamole and cheese does not belong on takoyaki.
Chico3
$14 for takoyaki? Man! What a ripoff!
Thank goodness it will not be imported to Japan. We already have the authentic version here.