Hirosaki’s Igamenchi: The Deep-Fried Squid Cake That’ll Make You Question Life Choices!

#summervacay Forget sushi—Aomori’s *real* street food legend is **igamenchi**, a crispy, squid-stuffed croquette that’s basically the love child of tempura and a seafood donut. Here’s your *gluttonous pilgrim’s guide* to finding the best in Hirosaki: --- ### **🍴 Where to Devour Igamenchi** 1. **Mamenchi (まめんち)** - **Why?** Family-run since 1985, uses **local squid + secret batter**. - **Order Like a Pro**: Get the *setto* (¥600) with miso soup and pickles. - **Address**: 青森県弘前市大字代官町45 (5-min walk from Hirosaki Park). 2. **Hirosaki Morning Market (弘前朝市)** - **Budget Hack**: ¥300 for a hot one wrapped in paper—eat while exploring the castle. - **Bonus**: Try **apple butter** on toast at the same stall (Aomori fusion!). 3. **Ekiben Shops at Hirosaki Station** - **For Train Snobs**: Grab the **"Igamenchi Bento"** (¥1,200) for your Shinkansen ride. --- ### **🤔 What Even *Is* Igamenchi?** - **The Recipe**: Minced squid + onions + egg, battered in *panko*, deep-fried to golden perfection. - **The Vibe**: Imagine if a calamari ring and a potato croquette had a *very* juicy baby. --- ### **⏰ Timing is Everything** - **Go Early**: Morning market stalls sell out by noon. - **Cherry Blossom Season**: Pair with *sakura mochi* for a sweet/savory knockout. --- ### **🚶♂️ Combo Move** 1. **Hirosaki Castle Visit** (¥320). 2. **Igamenchi Feast** (¥300-600). 3. **Nap by the Moat** (¥0, but priceless). **Verdict:** Aomori’s squid game you’ll *actually* win. Want the **spiciest igamenchi** or a secret *apple cider* pairing spot? Just ask! 🍎😋