The ohagi sold at Okita Seimai in Tokyo is a sweet treat that has gained a loyal following among locals and is a must-try for anyone visiting the city. This traditional Japanese dessert, made with glutinous rice and sweet red bean paste, is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. What sets Okita Seimai's ohagi apart is its unique presentation. Instead of the typical hand-wrapped style, the red bean paste is generously spooned over the rice, creating a soft and moist appearance that is too delicate to handle by hand. This innovative approach not only adds to the visual appeal but also ensures a consistent and high-quality product. The result is a dessert that is both beautiful and delicious. The red bean paste, made from azuki beans, is cooked to perfection, retaining its texture while remaining soft and sweet. The natural flavor of the beans shines through, enhanced by the restrained sweetness of the rice. The three-colored assorted ohagi, which includes ingredients like millet and yomogi (Japanese mugwort), offers a delightful aroma and a depth of flavor that complements the red beans. The combination of the soft, pleasantly chewy glutinous rice and the sweet red bean paste creates a perfect marriage of textures and flavors. The ohagi is surprisingly filling, but the taste is so enticing that it's easy to keep eating. The early sell-out of these ohagi at noon is a testament to their popularity and the quality of the ingredients used. Okita Seimai's dedication to using quality glutinous rice and its unique presentation style have earned them a loyal customer base. The store's long history, dating back to the Taisho era (1912-1926), further adds to its credibility and reputation. For those visiting Tokyo, Okita Seimai is a must-visit destination for a truly authentic and delicious ohagi experience. The store's address is Tokyo-to, Shinagawa-ku, Hatanodai 4-6-3, and it is open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., closed on Mondays, Sundays, and public holidays. The ohagi is priced at 577 yen (US$3.61) for a pack of three classic ohagi and a pack of three assorted ohagi. The unique presentation and high-quality ingredients make it a treat worth getting up early for and trying at least once.
