Donburi: A Hidden Gem of Japanese cuisine

When it comes to Japanese cuisine, sushi and ramen often steal the spotlight. But deeply rooted in Japan's culinary tradition is donburi, a dish that stands for comfort, simplicity and satisfaction. Despite its popularity in Japan, donburi is still relatively unknown outside its home country.

Yuzukosho Shake Don at MARU

What is donburi?

Donburi (丼) is a Japanese dish consisting of a bowl of rice topped with various toppings such as meat, fish or vegetables. The name "donburi" literally means "bowl" and refers to the deep bowl in which the dish is served. Each type of donburi is defined by the choice of toppings and the method of preparation.

The origins of Donburi: a humble beginning

The origins of donburi date back to the Muromachi period (1336-1573) in Japan, where it was originally known as "houhan" and served as a vegetarian dish in Buddhist temples. The uncomplicated way of combining rice with various toppings made it a practical and nutritious meal for monks.

During the Edo period (1603-1868), the dish evolved and donburi became increasingly popular with the citizens of Edo (now Tokyo). The busy city life demanded quick yet filling meals, and donburi was the perfect solution. One of the first versions of this dish was "una-don", grilled eel on rice, which was particularly popular when going to the theater.

Unadon - grilled eel on rice. Photo: Jun Seita

An impressive variety of flavors

Due to regional differences, seasonal ingredients and the high adaptability of donburi, many different versions have evolved over time to cater to different taste preferences. Here is a selection of the best-known donburi:

• Gyudon: Thinly sliced beef stewed with onions in a mildly sweet soy sauce and served with rice. Popular because of its hearty taste.

• Katsudon: A crispy deep-fried pork cutlet (tonkatsu) on rice, with a sauce of dashi, soy sauce and egg.

• Oyakodon: A savoury dish in which chicken and eggs are stewed together with onions and dashi broth.

• Tendon: A bowl of rice topped with tempura - crispy deep-fried pieces of prawns and vegetables - and served with tempura sauce.

• Unadon: A bowl of rice with grilled eel, glazed with a sweet and salty sauce known for its rich and hearty flavour.

Gyudon from MARU

Cultural significance: donburi in Japanese culture

Donburi is more than just a meal; it is a reflection of Japanese culture and values. It embodies the concept of "omotenashi" (hospitality), where a simple bowl of rice becomes a warming meal that nourishes the body and soul. In Japan, donburi is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds, from children to seniors, and can be found everywhere from busy street stalls to upscale restaurants.

Modern times and international fame

Today, donburi is an integral part of Japanese cuisine and is also becoming increasingly popular internationally. Restaurants all over the world offer different variations of donburi, both traditional and modern interpretations of the dish. Nevertheless, donburi often remains an insider tip abroad.

Enjoy your donburi at MARU

At MARU, we bring the essence of Japanese comfort food to Europe with our carefully curated selection of donburi dishes. From hearty gyudon to crispy katsudon, our menu offers a wonderful journey through the world of donburi. Each bowl is prepared with care using high quality ingredients to create an authentic and satisfying donburi experience.

Yuzu Ponzu Karaage Don from MARU

A bowl full of comfort

Donburi are a testament to the rich Japanese cooking tradition that is inspiring more and more people around the world. With MARU, we want to bring this underrated and still relatively unknown classic of Japanese cuisine to Switzerland and share our enthusiasm for donburi with our guests. We prepare every bowl for you with love, care and high-quality ingredients.

きてね! - Kite ne! - See you soon!

MARU is a Japanese comfort food takeaway at Zurich main station that specializes in culinary highlights of Japanese cuisine that are still largely undiscovered in this country. Bestsellers include gourmet donburi, traditional udon noodle soups and crispy Japanese fried chicken (karaage). Matcha fans will get their money's worth at the integrated Matcha Bar, with various creations traditionally prepared with high-quality matcha powder from Uji.