About YUUHow chicken nanban began
It’s said to have started in the 1950s–60s as a staff meal at a Western-style restaurant in Nobeoka, Miyazaki.
👀 At a glance
📍WhereMiyazaki (Nobeoka)
🕰WhenShowa 30s (1955–64)
🍽OriginA staff meal
📜 How it began
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Showa 30s
It’s said to have started as a staff meal at a Western-style restaurant in Nobeoka[1]
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Later
At first it was called “amazu-zuke” (pickled in sweet vinegar). Tartar sauce was added later, making it what it is today[1]
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Showa 40s
It spread as a special treat when families ate out[1]
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Today
It’s an everyday meal at school lunches, at home and in restaurants[1]
💡 About the name
“Nanban” originally meant the Portuguese who came to Japan in the Warring States period, and their culture. The dish is said to be named after this, as chicken in sweet vinegar with chili[1]