CONTRIBUTED BY MEGAN HOOSER
A typical Saturday for my husband and me is to jump in the car and drive North. No destination in mind, we just go exploring. Often though, halfway through our drive, someone’s stomach starts grumbling. And as those of you who have ever driven North of Nago know, McDonald’s, A&W and the other familiar fast food joints become a rare sight. So in desperation one day, I told my husband to pull into the Hotto Motto parking lot. It was the one restaurant around who’s name I recognized, and I was willing to give anything a chance. Lucky for me, it has turned out to be my new favorite fast food on island.
For starters, Hotto Motto is take-out only. It seems most of the locals call in orders, but they do counter orders as well. The location we went to, none of the staff spoke English. They did pull out a copy of the menu with translations, but we just ordered by picture. All of the food is served Bento box style. There is Chicken Karage (my favorite- and the closest thing to chicken nuggets), soba, stir frys, and even chicken wings and fries! I think I even remember a few kids meal options. Every few weeks the specials change as well, which can mean menu items or just discounts on current items. For a closer look at the basic menu click here: Hotto Motto
Hours: Most have signs saying they are open 24 hours, but check the location to verify.
Payment: All locations take yen. Certain locations accept dollars.
Locations: They are many on the island, located conveniently to each of the bases. Here are just a few:
Foster- From the Sergeant Major Gate head straight until you hit 329. Turn Left. Hotto Motto will be on your Left, across from McDonald’s.
Kadena- Exit gate 3, turn right onto 329 and there is one a few blocks down on your right.
Courtney/McT- Head South on 75. Turn Left onto 8, Hotto Motto will be on your Left. (There are also at least 3 on 75/330 between Courtney and Kadena).
Also, if you have the Yellow Pages Map, a few Hotto Motto locations are marked on there. Otherwise, just keep your eyes open. Hotto Motto is tucked into buildings everywhere, there’s problem one just down the street from you.