Harako Meshi
The blessings of salmon, a harmonious pairing of flavors. Experience the taste of autumn with Miyagi’s local specialty, Harako Meshi.

About Harako Meshi

Harako Meshi (はらこ飯, Harako Meshi) is a beloved autumn specialty from Watari Town in Miyagi Prefecture. This dish consists of rice cooked in savory salmon broth, topped generously with flaky salmon and glistening ikura (salmon roe). It is traditionally made using fresh, naturally fatty autumn salmon caught locally during the season, which gives the dish its rich and distinctive flavor.

The name “harako” comes from a regional Tohoku dialect word for salmon eggs, derived from "harako," meaning salmon's belly eggs. The dish itself traces its roots to hearty fisherman’s meals enjoyed after salmon fishing, with each household preparing it in their own unique style. In Watari Town, families proudly claim, "Ours is the best!" demonstrating the enduring importance of homemade flavors.

A delightful historical anecdote tells of Date Masamune, the famous regional lord of the Edo period, visiting Watari and being presented with Harako Meshi. He is said to have been so impressed by its taste that the story has been cherished ever since.

Today, Harako Meshi can be found on the menus of many restaurants across Miyagi during autumn. In Watari specifically, it becomes a centerpiece of autumn festivals and the tourist season, drawing in visitors eager to savor this iconic local dish.

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