Toriten (Seasoned chicken tempura)
A signature local specialty from Oita, a prefecture known for its high chicken consumption

About Toriten (Seasoned chicken tempura)

Toriten is a beloved local dish that has long been enjoyed in Oita. Chicken is seasoned with a ponzu- or soy sauce-based marinade, coated in tempura batter and served with a sauce chosen by each restaurant.

Toriten is said to have originated at Toyoken, the first restaurant in the prefecture, in Beppu. In the early Showa era, the restaurant’s existing fried chicken was served on the bone, which was thought to be difficult for women to eat. The kitchen adapted it by cutting boneless chicken thigh into bite-sized pieces and preparing it in a tempura style. It cooked faster than karaage, and its crisp, tender coating quickly won people over. Before long, restaurants across the area were serving toriten.

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