Omusubi Gonbei おむすび権米衛

- 595 River Rd, Edgewater, NJ 07020

Introduction / Overview

For residents and visitors in New Jersey seeking a taste of authentic, handmade Japanese comfort food, a visit to Omusubi Gonbei (おむすび権米衛) in Edgewater is a must. Located within the bustling Mitsuwa Marketplace, this Japanese restaurant specializes in Omusubi, also widely known as Onigiri, which are savory Japanese rice balls. Omusubi Gonbei has gained a loyal following for its commitment to making fresh, substantial rice balls using quality ingredients, making it a perfect spot for a quick and satisfying meal, snack, or addition to a larger food court experience. The concept of Omusubi is deeply rooted in Japanese food culture, offering a portable and nourishing option that has been a staple for centuries, and Omusubi Gonbei brings this tradition to the New Jersey dining scene. Their mission is even tied to promoting rice consumption and supporting sustainable agriculture, lending an authentic and mindful touch to their offerings. It's a true gem in the heart of North Jersey's most iconic Japanese market.

In Japan, the Omusubi is considered a classic comfort food—simple, homey, and versatile. Omusubi Gonbei continues this tradition by offering a wide variety of fillings, catering to both classic tastes and more modern, creative flavors. Customers often note the generous size of the rice balls compared to those found elsewhere, with options like the "Bomb" and "Spicy Bomb" being particularly large and filling, sometimes referred to as 'American-sized' by those familiar with the brand. This dedication to satisfying portions and fresh preparation is what makes Omusubi Gonbei a standout vendor in the highly competitive Mitsuwa food court.

Location and Accessibility

Omusubi Gonbei is conveniently situated inside the Mitsuwa Marketplace food court at 595 River Rd, Edgewater, NJ 07020, USA. The Mitsuwa Marketplace is a major destination for Japanese groceries and dining in the region, making it a central and easy-to-find location right on the waterfront in Edgewater, offering views of the Manhattan skyline from the food court seating area.

Accessibility is a key feature of this location, as the Mitsuwa Marketplace is designed to accommodate all guests. The amenities confirmed for Omusubi Gonbei itself, and the market it resides within, include:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot (Free parking is available)
• Wheelchair accessible restroom (Available within the Marketplace)
• Wheelchair accessible seating (Available in the common food court area)
• Free parking lot and free street parking are available, which is a significant convenience in the area.
• Dogs are allowed outside of the main building/food court area.

Since Omusubi Gonbei is located within the highly popular food court, customers should be aware that finding seating, especially during peak hours on weekends, can sometimes be challenging due to the popularity of the marketplace's dining options.

Services Offered

Omusubi Gonbei is focused on providing quick and satisfying Japanese food with maximum convenience. Their primary services include:

• Dine-in: Patrons can enjoy their Omusubi at the common seating area of the Mitsuwa Marketplace food court.
• Takeout: Perfect for those on the go, as the Omusubi rice balls are inherently portable and packed for easy carrying.
• Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner: They cater to all dining times, opening earlier than some other food court vendors, making them a great breakfast or early lunch option.
• Quick Bite & Small Plates: The individual rice balls are ideal for a light meal, a quick energy boost, or for sampling multiple flavors.
• Kids' Menu & Good for Kids: The simple, familiar ingredients of rice and various fillings make Omusubi an excellent, kid-friendly option.

Features / Highlights

What sets Omusubi Gonbei apart and makes it a must-try stop in Edgewater:

• Authentic Omusubi Specialist: The restaurant is dedicated solely to perfecting the Japanese rice ball, ensuring freshness and quality that rivals handmade comfort food from Japan.
• Wide Variety of Fillings: They offer a diverse menu with both traditional (Salmon, Ume - pickled plum, Kombu) and creative/substantial fillings (Spicy Tuna, Spam, Chashu Pork, Grilled Eel, Shrimp Tempura).
• "Bomb" Sized Omusubi: They are known for their generously portioned rice balls, with options like the "Bomb" and "Spicy Bomb" providing an extra-satisfying, meal-sized option.
• Brown Rice Options: Health-conscious diners can choose from a selection of Brown Rice Omusubi, including Plain Brown, Salmon Brown, Spicy Tuna Brown, and Jaco Brown, aligning with a commitment to offering healthy alternatives.
• Location in Mitsuwa Marketplace: Being inside New Jersey's premier Japanese grocery store and food court means visitors can combine their meal with a unique shopping experience and other Japanese dining options.
• Japanese Comfort Food: The simple, high-quality ingredients and fresh preparation offer a truly authentic taste of Japanese daily cuisine.

Contact Information

For all inquiries regarding Omusubi Gonbei, you can reach them at the following details:

Address:

Phone Number:

What is Worth Choosing

When visiting Omusubi Gonbei, the primary choice is, of course, the Omusubi itself. The quality of the rice and the variety of fillings mean there is a perfect option for every preference. Based on customer feedback and general popularity, the following items are highly recommended for your next quick meal:

• Salmon ($2.70): A timeless, classic Japanese filling that is a great starting point for first-time visitors. The Grilled Salmon is a staple and a favorite among many.
• Spicy Tuna ($2.50): A popular choice for those who enjoy a little kick, providing a zesty and flavorful protein-packed option.
• Spicy Bomb ($4.80) or Bomb ($4.50): If you are looking for a meal that is substantial and truly filling, these "Bomb" options are the way to go. They are significantly larger than the standard rice ball, justifying the price point and serving as a full, satisfying lunch.
• Spam ($3.90): A Hawaiian-Japanese fusion favorite, the Spam Omusubi offers a salty, savory, and slightly sweet flavor profile that is distinct and incredibly popular.
• Ume (Pickled Plum) ($2.40): For a traditional Japanese flavor, the pickled plum offers a delightful balance of salty and tangy notes that pairs perfectly with the plain white or brown rice.
• Brown Rice Options: Customers looking for a healthier alternative can confidently choose the Salmon Brown ($2.70) or Spicy Tuna Brown ($2.50), as Omusubi Gonbei is one of the few places to offer brown rice as an easy substitute in this style of fast-casual Japanese dining.

Beyond the rice balls, Omusubi Gonbei offers a small selection of side dishes and drinks. The Tofu Miso Soup ($2.20) is an excellent pairing to warm up and complement the rice balls, especially for a light lunch. They also offer Karaage ($4.20), which are Japanese-style fried chicken pieces, a comforting addition to any order. The convenience of fresh, hot food made on-site, coupled with the ability to grab a quick, balanced, and delicious meal, makes Omusubi Gonbei a standout choice in the Edgewater area for lovers of Japanese cuisine.

A final note for prospective visitors: while the food is highly praised, Omusubi Gonbei is situated within a very busy environment. Its popularity means fresh Omusubi are constantly being made and sold, which is a testament to the freshness and demand for their product. It's best to plan your visit with the understanding that the food court is a bustling and high-traffic area, particularly on weekends.

Omusubi Gonbei おむすび権米衛

595 River Rd, Edgewater, NJ 07020, USA