Marutto Kyushu Hirose Shoten

Descending into the basement of a building in Nishi-Ikebukuro, visitors are greeted by inviting, fragrant steam and a lively dining atmosphere. The signature dish at Marutto Kyushu Hirose Shoten is its motsunabe, made using small intestines from Miyazaki-raised Kuroge Wagyu beef. Simmered thoroughly in large pots, the offal is cut into generous pieces, releasing sweet rendered fat and a gentle richness as you eat. Alongside the salt broth loaded with garlic chives, green onions, and tofu, diners can also tailor the hot pot to their preference with soup bases such as white or red. Once the main ingredients are enjoyed, finishing the meal with an order of noodles or rice for zosui porridge lets you savour every last drop of the flavourful broth.

Horse Sashimi, Skewers, and Varied Drinking Fare

Beyond the hot pot, a broad selection of à la carte dishes rounds out the menu. Selections such as the three-cut horse sashimi platter—combining lean and marbled meat—and horse sashimi yukhoe are well-regarded for their pleasant texture and raw flavour. Appetiser plates built to pair with drinks fill the tables, including the shop's hand-skewered offal, Wagyu beef skewers, and aromatic seared mentaiko. Enjoying these alongside sweet potato shochu like Kuro Kirishima and Sato Kuro, barley shochu like Nikaido, or regional sake makes for an authentic Kyushu evening out.

From Afternoon Drinks to Late-Night Dining

The dining space provides comfortable seating, making it convenient for casual gatherings with friends. Operating continuously from 12:00 noon until late into the night, the venue easily accommodates everything from an early toast to a late-night supper.