A Culinary Trip Down Memory Lane: The Japanese “O-kosama Lunch

Have you ever wondered what “O-kosama Lunch” is called in English? Unique to Japan, this delightful children’s meal often encompasses a mini feast in a single plate. Consisting of staple favorites such as omelette rice (omurice), hamburger steak, pasta, salad, fruits, and pudding, the O-kosama Lunch can be found almost everywhere you dine. Though the name refers to ‘lunch,’ it is also served for dinner, remaining true to its name.

A quintessential feature of this child-friendly platter is the small national flag perched atop the omurice. Surprisingly, these flags often represent countries other than Japan. It is as if each O-kosama Lunch aims to serve a slice of the world on its plate, a testament to the cosmopolitan culinary culture of Japan.

Being served an O-kosama Lunch can evoke a nostalgic sensation, transporting one back to the innocence of childhood. There’s a unique joy in reminiscing those halcyon days of gleeful anticipation as the meal arrives, with the flag fluttering gently over the culinary landscape.

Thank you for reading this article. We hope it has given you an insight into the charming world of Japanese cuisine and its endearing tradition of the O-kosama Lunch, a delightful dish that truly serves up a taste of childhood.