Tabelog ratingPancho (ぱんちょう) is a legendary name in Obihiro, credited with inventing the city's soul food: butadon. This simple, focused restaurant has been serving its iconic dish for decades, drawing locals and visitors alike for a taste of charcoal-grilled pork perfection. The experience is defined by the smoky aroma that fills the air and a menu that gets straight to the point.
The star is the pork, grilled over charcoal until lightly charred and brushed with a secret sweet and savory tare sauce. Guests consistently praise this deep, smoky flavor and the perfect balance of the sauce, which soaks into the bed of Hokkaido rice beneath. The menu is simple: you choose your bowl by the number of pork slices. Reviewers often recommend the more generous portions, like the six-slice "Ume" or the eight-slice "Ka". Many also add a side of miso soup.
Given its fame, Pancho is almost always busy. Reviewers note that the small dining room gets crowded and service can feel rushed during peak hours. A few found some pork slices slightly chewy, but this is a minority opinion. The value, however, is widely praised. A meal is very affordable, with reviewers recently paying ¥1,050 for a four-slice bowl (Matsu) and ¥1,450 for an eight-slice bowl (Ka). Miso soup is typically an extra ¥200.
- Getting there: Pancho is a 2-minute walk from JR Obihiro Station.
- Reservations: Bookings are not accepted. Be prepared to queue, especially at lunch and dinner; waits of 10–30 minutes are common.
- Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
- Dietary: The menu is pork-only.
- Children: Children are welcome, but strollers are not permitted inside.
- Rules: Each guest is expected to order their own dish. Photography is limited to the food you've ordered. The restaurant may close early if ingredients sell out.
