A couple weeks ago I came across a picture of a young Japanese girl looking straight into the camera. From her nose down, she was hidden behind a triangular shaped piece of paper that was carefully designed in such a way that it looked like her smile, but it wasn’t. I soon found out it was a marketing campaign, a clever one I might add, by a burger chain that was founded in Japan in 1992. After watching the commercial on YouTube, I decided to check out Freshness Burger myself. I’m always up for an American classic!
Just beyond the concrete torii gate near Kamakura Beach, I stood in front of Freshness Burger looking at the menu. I was impressed with the wide selection of burgers, sides, and morning menu. As I approached the counter I admired the look and feel of this restaurant. I felt like I was at ‘Central Perk’ coffee shop featured in the ever-so-popular sitcom “Friends.” The interior really sets them apart from the burger joints known for their golden arches or a crown. I then looked up and the drink menu referenced “homemade” with a choice of hot or cold. A display case had “homemade” cakes to offer. And behind the counter I watched as each burger was freshly made and couldn’t wait to place my order.
Initially, I wanted to order what the marketing campaign highlighted: The Classic Cheese Burger. But the Salmon Egg Burger caught my attention. Besides, my son was with me and he would share his order of the Classic Cheese Burger with me, right? In addition to the burgers, we ordered French fries, a cup of tomato chowder, a slice of Banana Bread, a cold glass of Homemade Ginger Ale, a hot cup of Homemade Ginger Cream Chai, and an ice-cold Pepsi.
Our drink order was delivered first so I taste-tested right away. Wow, woah, amazing! The Homemade Ginger Ale was spiced to perfection with a good fizz. You could taste the fresh cut ginger and the hint of lemon zest. Oh, so good! The Homemade Ginger Cream Chai was definitely my “Cup ‘o Tea!” and a great combination with the Homemade Banana Bread.
Oh, the angels are singing right now because the burgers are on their way! Delivered hot off the grill and tucked into the wrappers our eyes grew large. My son couldn’t grab his fast enough so I took a picture first! Before I knew it he was taking his last bite and there was nothing to share. But, I was still savoring my Salmon Egg Burger. Made with pumpkin, the naturally light, yellow-colored sesame seed bun compliments the burger so well. It’s light & airy and not filling like most bread. The grilled salmon was a delight topped off with a fried egg, Swiss cheese, fresh crunchy green lettuce and onion.
I still wanted to try the Classic Cheese Burger. Another masterpiece from the grill, it was stacked with precision. Nothing’s better than a hot burger with American cheese melting off its sides. Oh my goodness. It was soft and savory. I had no difficulty eating this burger and shortly realized, although not designed with the cutesy smiling face (just plain white), the wrapper freed me from the spell of “Ochobo”!
Look no further; I just discovered a burger café that serves up the most delicious burgers and drinks right here in Japan. If you’re a frequent visitor, be sure to ask for the Freshness Card or Drink Card for collecting stamps and a free treat. To access Freshness Burger in Kamakura by car, follow Route 134 to Route 21. By train, exit Kamakura Station on the JR Line. Note: there are 200 locations serving Japan. Locate the nearest Freshness Burger near you, today!
