Introducing Butano Torico Maru

Hello, fellow travelers!
With slightly sore shins from all my exploring,
this is Binako, your Sarukuma writer!

Today I’m excited to introduce you to a hidden gem located in
Hoyakubo, Higashi-ku, Kumamoto City:
“Butano Torico Maru”.

What makes “Butano Torico Maru” so special is that they specialize in
additive-free bacon, meaning families with children can shop here with complete peace of mind ♪

Honestly, I’ve been obsessed with these kinds of natural, wholesome products lately,
so I could barely contain my excitement during this visit.

Free parking is conveniently available behind the shop, so feel free to drive right up ♪

Even before you step inside, the traditional Japanese noren curtain at the entrance sets a charming, authentic mood.

And it’s not just the exterior that’s lovely.
Inside, gentle lighting creates a warm, calming atmosphere where you can truly relax…In winter, this stove keeps the shop cozy and warm.
It’s so stylish, I didn’t even realize it was a stove until they pointed it out!

The display case is lined with beautiful rows of bacon.
This, my friends, is exactly what I came to see!

The bacon at “Butano Torico Maru” is crafted using
locally sourced ingredients from Kumamoto Prefecture—from the smoking chips to the pork itself—
every single element reflects passion, care, and the heartfelt dedication of countless local producers.

When it comes to bacon, you have to start with the classic [Belly (Bara)].
Even through the packaging, you can see the juicy fat marbled with plump, flavorful meat.
It’s perfect for hearty cooking or as a delicious accent to any dish—
and kids absolutely love it!

Next up is the leaner [Shoulder] cut.
It’s wonderful eaten as-is, prosciutto-style.
Surprisingly, it also pairs beautifully with vinegared sushi rice, so I’m dying to try it in inarizushi (sweet tofu pouches).

The fact that it can be enjoyed straight out of the package
is a huge plus for busy home cooks.

Then there’s the lean, red-meat-rich [Leg (Momo)].
Add it to a salad or layer it into a sandwich,
and suddenly your everyday meal becomes something truly luxurious.
This one can also be enjoyed straight from the package.

The shop staff also gave me a wonderful tip:
try it on top of soba noodles, just like duck soba—it’s incredible!
Just imagining it makes my mouth water.

I also spotted the now sold-out [Extra Fatty] and [Sample Packs].

And occasionally, as a special item, they stock
[Hashiru Buta (Running Pig)] bacon.

This delicate, free-range pork is so popular it sells out almost instantly.
The next batch is expected in June or July—don’t miss it!

They also stock craft beer from Amakusa and domestic Japanese wines.
Everything is sourced from Kumamoto or elsewhere in Japan, giving shoppers wonderful peace of mind.

The wine selection is impressively varied, so wine lovers, definitely stop by!

Recommended Picks at Butano Torico Maru

This time, I picked up the [Leg (Momo)].

They thoughtfully include cooking suggestions in the package, so if you’re thinking,
“I have no idea how to enjoy this!”
the included guide is super helpful ♪

I couldn’t wait, so I tried it raw first.

The pro tip: slice it thinly and store the rest frozen in a Ziploc bag to keep it fresh longer ( *´艸｀)

I started with the fatty portion, and
the moment it touched my tongue, the fat just melted away.
I’m not exaggerating—seriously, it melts.

The fat has a natural sweetness, and I could already imagine
the flavor explosion if you served it over hot rice.

Next, I tried the lean red-meat portion.

I expected it to be a bit tough, but it was unbelievably tender.
All that concentrated, deep meaty flavor bursts open the moment you take a bite.

Even my child happily munched away, declaring, “I LOVE this stuff!” like a little gourmet.

The next morning for breakfast, I made TKGB (Tamago Kake Gohan + Bacon = raw egg over rice with bacon).
Don’t ask me what TKGB is—just trust me on this one!

I lightly seared the bacon and laid it on top, and one bite was enough to declare:
“Yep, this is the winner.”
The juicy, smoky punch is absolutely insane.
You simply have to try it for yourself!

“Butano Torico Maru” will also be a featured vendor at the
[Tokotoko Sarukuma Market] hosted by Sarukuma on April 25,
so come grab some delicious additive-free bacon while you can!

April 25, 2021 [Tokotoko Sarukuma Market is happening! ✨]

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At Sarukuma, we share lunch spots, parks, indoor play areas, and family-friendly info for those raising kids in Kumamoto.
We’d love to have you follow along(*´∀｀*)

Frequently Asked Questions

※Information is current as of the time of reporting. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please confirm before visiting.