The Pigs' Feet of Kyushu Cuisine Invigorates Taste Buds—and Skin

If you've been to either of the previous JapanTown festivals, one booth that might have stuck out in your memory might have been Hakata Tonton's, manned by the chef wearing the pig mask, Koji Hagihara. Hakata Tonton, a cozy 40-seat restaurant in the West Village, serves authentic soul food from Kyushu, the southernmost island of Japan. Their menu lists many dishes that may seem strange to those familiar with commonplace Japanese fare, but don't be wary; every plate of savory new flavors is bound to make you search for where all the Kyushu soul food is in New York after your experience.

What is Japanese Soul Food?

Shrimp and cheese okonomiyaki

Well, it’s not teriyaki chitlins and black-eyed tofu paste if that’s what you’re thinking!