A Fateful Encounter at Takasaka Service Area During Our Journey
En route to Hokuriku, after several hours on the Kan-Etsu Expressway, we stopped at Takasaka Service Area (downbound) during the early afternoon as hunger began to set in. This isn’t merely a rest stop—it’s a “service area paradise” teeming with gourmet delights.
And there’s one place my feet naturally gravitate toward without fail: the renowned iso-age shop “Marusen.”
“Marusen” — The Luxury of Savoring Ise-Shima Flavors in Saitama
“Marusen” is a specialized iso-age shop with its main store in Ise City, Mie Prefecture. Famous for its freshly fried iso-age made with luxurious seafood, these are delicacies that would normally require a journey to Ise-Shima to taste. However, here at Takasaka SA, these flavors can be enjoyed with ease.
Who would have imagined that the ocean’s bounty from Ise could be savored in the heart of Kanto, in landlocked Saitama Prefecture? As a history enthusiast, the very scenario of “encountering ocean flavors in a place with no connection to the sea” is irresistible. In the Edo period, “bringing back seafood as a souvenir from an Ise pilgrimage” was one of travel’s great pleasures, but in the Reiwa era, such wishes can be fulfilled simply by stopping at Takasaka SA—what an elegant tale indeed.
The Signature Menu Item “Tako-bo” — Perfection Through Simplicity
What cannot be missed at Marusen is the “Tako-bo.”
As the name suggests, this is a stick-shaped iso-age packed with generous amounts of octopus. With the first bite, what you immediately feel is the bouncy, bursting texture of the octopus. The pickled ginger adds a sharp accent, balancing the overall composition perfectly. Simple yet elegant, this simplicity allows the quality of the ingredients to truly shine.
The warmth of the freshly fried delicacy gently transfers to your fingertips. With each bite, the fish’s umami spreads softly while the octopus provides its distinctive texture. This harmony is exquisite, embodying what one might call the “pinnacle of artisanal craft.”
Addictive Warning! “Ebi Mayo-bo”
If “Tako-bo” is the foundation, then “Ebi Mayo-bo” is the habit-forming variation.
The umami of shrimp and the richness of mayonnaise intertwine exquisitely, spreading a luxurious flavor throughout your mouth. This sweet-salty combination somehow beckons the next bite. While you tell yourself “just one more bite…” you’ll find yourself dangerously finishing the entire stick before you know it.
The Melting Luxury of “Cheese-bo”
The women’s favorite number one: “Cheese-bo.”
From within the piping hot surimi, cheese oozes out languidly, with the ocean’s aroma and milky flavor melting together on your palate. This is practically a “beverage.” The bliss of biting into it fresh from the fryer instantly blows away any fatigue from the drive.
The Art of Enjoying Marusen to Its Fullest — A Guide to the Perfect Eating Method
Here’s where the secret of proper consumption becomes crucial:
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Go for the Bold Bite, Stick and All
- The “bo series” is meant to be bitten into boldly just as it is. While taking them home as souvenirs for the dinner table is certainly an option, slicing them thin is not recommended. That texture, that juiciness—it’s perfected by chomping into the whole stick.
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Cut Into Manageable Pieces for Small Children
- Since there are skewers involved, care is needed with small children. Cutting them into appropriate sizes makes them easier to eat.
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Stomach-Friendly, Perfect Travel Companion
- While iso-age is fried food, because it uses surimi, it’s surprisingly light. With no greasy heaviness and little risk of stomach upset, it’s perfect for long drives.
The Value of Stopping at Takasaka SA for “Marusen”
Service area gourmet falls into two categories: “things you eat while you’re there anyway” and “things you stop specifically to eat.” Marusen’s iso-age clearly falls into the latter category. In fact, there are fans who make the journey from the metropolitan area specifically to come here.
This spot where you can casually enjoy the flavors of Ise-Shima is worth visiting not just as a rest stop, but as a gourmet destination. Simply stopping here during a drive gives you a taste of that travel feeling, guaranteeing one more pleasure added to your journey.
Summary
“Tako-bo,” “Ebi Mayo-bo,” “Cheese-bo.”
Each one a first-class item, yet embodying the charm of casually enjoyable iso-age. When you stop at Takasaka Service Area, head straight to “Marusen” without hesitation. Then take a stick in hand and bite boldly into it. You’re sure to fall in love with this iso-age.
Come now, your next drive destination is decided. On your way to Hokuriku, let it all begin with savoring “Marusen” at Takasaka SA.