Lucky Pierrot- Unique Burger Chain in Hakodate, Japan
One of the more underrated destinations in Japan is Hakodate. In the city, I enjoyed the fresh seafood and their shio ramen specialty. But then, there’s a unique burger chain that only exists in Hakodate, and that is called Lucky Pierrot. It’s one of the must-tries if you find yourself in Hakodate.
What is Lucky Pierrot?
Lucky Pierrot is Hakodate’s unique burger chain with 17 different locations within the city. Each stores have different designs outside and inside the building. Their mascot is a circus clown, and don’t let the clown fool you as Lucky Pierrot is Japan’s #1 burger chain.
The Lucky Pierrot I tried was located near JR Hakodate Station.
Inside Lucky Pierrot
The interior of every Lucky Pierrot will be different, but they all follow a kitschy interior design philosophy. I guess that’s a reason why the mascot is a circus clown. You’ll be able to see lots of eccentric design choices inside while waiting in line. These stores are quite popular, so you can expect a bit of a long line.
Some aspects of the interior design have that old Western influence. Hakodate was one of the first Japanese ports that opened up to foreign trade. Thus, it makes sense that such mish-mash occur. Hakodate has an area called Motomachi where western-styled buildings are in place like the former British Consulate and Russian Orthodox Church. They’re quite rare sights in Japan.
The store may come with a souvenir corner to let you acquire some Hakodate-only goodies.
As I finally approach the cashier counter, there were sizeable displays of the menu with pictures. But, all of them were written in Japanese. It will be useful to be able to read katakana for a large portion of the menu.
Does Lucky Pierrot accept credit cards?
Most Lucky Pierrot stores will not accept credit cards, so have cash on hand with you. IC cards that you’d use for trains also will not work.
Lucky Pierrot’s Chinese Chicken Burger
While Lucky Pierrot offers a variety of items on their menu, their #1 item is the Chinese Chicken Burger. If you come from America, it’s basically Orange Chicken, but served with hamburger buns. You can order a combo set menu for less than 1000 yen! The set comes with french fries glazed in demi-glace sauce and a glass of unsweetened iced-tea.
After ordering, you’ll be given a number tag and the server will bring your food to you.
The fries go well with demi-glace sauce. I wonder why American fast food chains don’t use it.
The Chinese Chicken Burger is quite nice itself. For the price I paid for, I felt they were great value.
Though, I wish I had more time in Hakodate to explore more of their menu. Some of the ones that look interesting are their prawn chili and sweet and sour pork burgers. Their ice cream desserts surely look enticing as well!
Perhaps one day, I’ll do the Futoccho Burger?
If you want to do a prior research on Lucky Pierrot’s menu, they have some of their popular items on their website. Their site also include all locations’ addresses, and opening schedules for some.
Conclusion
Hakodate is a charming little town in southern Hokkaido filled with interesting architectures and food choices. Lucky Pierrot is one of the spots to check out if you ever find yourself in Hakodate!
