Beyond the Onigiri Boom: New Rice-Centric Brand to Open in Umeda on May 19

The popular rice specialty store 'Kome to Mitsu' from Honmachi is launching a new brand, 'Casual ni, Kome.,' at NU Chayamachi Plus in Umeda on May 19, 2026. Moving beyond the recent onigiri trend, the shop focuses on the primal joy of freshly cooked rice. The experience features rice cooked just before serving to preserve its steam and aroma, accompanied by carefully curated side dishes designed to highlight the natural sweetness of the grain. The venue offers about 40 seats and a unique menu including sake and rice flour desserts.