Tabelog ratingShisen Mabo Senka Rara (四川麻婆専家 辣辣) has earned a loyal following in Hiroshima by focusing on one thing: exceptional Sichuan-style mapo tofu. The specialty here is a mapo tofu defined by its potent, numbing aroma from flower pepper (花椒) rather than just brute heat. For a richer experience, many regulars opt to add plump, textural horumon (offal) to the dish, a combination that consistently draws praise.
Beyond the signature mapo, the menu features another star: a Taiwanese-style sweet and sour pork (subuta). Reviewers love its crispy texture and tangy sauce, often ordering it as a set with a mini portion of mapo tofu. Guests consistently praise the generous portions, fast service, and the free extra portion of rice at lunchtime, making it a popular choice for a quick, satisfying, and high-value meal. The shop is also well-regarded by international visitors.
The restaurant's popularity means there are downsides. Long queues are common, especially at lunchtime, and popular items like the horumon topping often sell out before the end of service. A few diners have noted occasional inconsistencies in spice levels or found the service to be brusque during busy periods.
Despite the queues, the value is undeniable. Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported paying around ¥860 for a standard mapo tofu set, about ¥1,120 for a Taiwan subuta set with a mini mapo tofu, and between ¥1,240 and ¥1,300 for the sought-after horumon mapo tofu set. The typical spend for both lunch and dinner is between ¥1,000 and ¥1,999.
- Getting There: A 2-minute walk from the Otemachi 4-chome bus stop on the Hiroshima Electric Railway Bus line.
- Booking: Reservations are not accepted. Expect to queue, especially at peak times.
- Payment: Cash only. Orders are placed via a ticket machine which may not accept bills larger than ¥1,000.
- Service Charge: A 10% service charge is added to the bill.
- Seating: 18 seats, including a 10-seat counter and a few small tables.
- Children: Children are welcome.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No dedicated parking, but paid coin parking is available nearby.
