NORTHSTAR has been opertating as a Hotel and Lodge for many years. The meals from Chef Kayo are often praised because of the international flavors but also being healthy and filling. Her meals are popular to both Japanese and foreign guests from outdoor enthusiasts to even those who choose vegan and vegetarian options.
As we closed operation of NORTHSTAR Alpine Lodge, we looked for new ways to operate with the Condominiums. We wanted to keep the meals from Chef Kayo but also resolve local issues of lack of places to eat in Norikura.
One idea that came up is opening a cafe or Izakaya in Norikura to provide more options for locals to eat. We realized that the Norikura area is moving towards encouraging longer stays and so we decided to run a food catering service. With food catering we are able to offer vacuum sealed meals made with local meat and vegetables from the Shinshu area.
Curry（Sample）
Vacumm sealed meals can be preserved for longer periods while still being able to enjoy the local foods. They can be carried around easily and cooked with just placing into boiling water which makes it perfect for a hiking to Mount Norikura or lunch for a Kamikochi adventure. The meals offer more local high quality ingredients which can make your outdoor experience that much more memorable.
Additionally, for people staying in Norikura for long period stays such as work-cation can enjoy these meals with just 5-10 minutes of preparation.
These meals are sold frozen in the freezer at the front desk of NORTHSTAR, in the rooms of the Condominiums, and at the local convenience store “Borusutara.” The shelf life of the frozen meals are 3-6 months.
The current meals for sale are Curry, Meat Sauce, Herb Chicken, and a vegetarian option of Chili Beans. Depending on the season there is also a side of Kyuchan-style Pickled Cucumbers.
Rice, pasta, and bread are not included and so those staying in the NORTHSTAR Condominiums can purchase these items at the NORTHSTAR Store. We also have Beer, Sodas, and other items to enjoy.
The NORTHSTAR Kitchen has been renovated to resemble a factory to accept orders from local restaurants for meals like Curry and Tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled eggs). In particular, local lodges and restaurants ask for vegetarian meal options for their lodging guests.
Because these meals are「Homemade and Local」the pricing is higher than similar meals sold in super markets. Please give them a try during your stay in Norikura.
We look forward to working with locals to serve the community through this service.
We tested it on a camping trip and was delicious!
Herb Chicken（Sample）
>> See the SHOP
The front desk is a selfl-checkout style store where you can pay with credit card.
Meat Sauce（Sample）