Kosen Dago

When people in Kyushu hear the word “dago,” many may think of dago-jiru, a soup with dumplings made by kneading wheat flour with water and cooking them with vegetables in a soy sauce or miso broth.
However, the “dago” of Ōmuta City is completely different! In short, it’s a giant okonomiyaki. Measuring about 30 cm by 50 cm and weighing roughly 2.5 kg, it’s packed with pork, squid, eggs, and noodles—an overwhelming volume! One serving is enough to satisfy three to four adults. In Ōmuta, this massive okonomiyaki is simply called “dago,” and the restaurant chain “Kosen Dago,” with multiple locations in and around the city, has become a beloved local soul food.

Ōmuta’s “dago” is commonly called “Kosen Dago” because it originated in 1965 at a cafeteria created for students of the nearby Ariake National College of Technology. The dish was born from a desire to feed hungry students cheaply and generously, which led to its popularity under the name “Kosen Dago.”

Flipping this enormous okonomiyaki without breaking its shape right in front of customers is an impressive skill—some say the staff practice regularly to perfect it. When you visit, be sure not to miss their amazing technique!