6 Japanese Restaurants Officially Certified as "Embassy-ATO Certified American Pork Restaurants" at the 2nd "U.S. Embassy-ATO Certified Program" Ceremony to be Held at the U.S. Embassy on July 30 (Thu)

The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) and the U.S. Embassy and Agricultural Trade Office (ATO) held the second "U.S. Embassy-ATO Certified Program" screening on June 10 (Wed) and 11 (Thu), 2026, at the U.S. Embassy. Six popular restaurants from Tokyo, Kanagawa, and Gifu, offering Cuban sandwiches and pulled pork made with 100% U.S. pork and ham, participated in this screening. As a result of tasting and judging by approximately 300 U.S. Embassy officials familiar with authentic American flavors, all participating restaurants were officially certified as "Embassy-ATO Certified American Pork Restaurants." A certification ceremony is scheduled to be held on July 30 (Thu). The six restaurants will receive certificates and logos that can be used for their establishments and promotions.

At the beginning of the screening, Chargé d'Affaires Aaron D. Snipes from the U.S. Embassy delivered remarks, stating, "I am delighted that through this initiative, we can introduce the appeal of high-quality American agricultural products to the people of Japan. It is a valuable opportunity to share new flavors and cultures through food, offering memorable sandwiches that have long been loved by Americans in Japan, a country with one of the world's leading food cultures. I hope many people will experience this special taste." He expressed his hope that many people will enjoy sandwiches made with U.S. pork.

The tasting and judging were divided into two days: June 10 for three Cuban sandwich restaurants and June 11 for three pulled pork sandwich restaurants. The Cuban sandwiches and pulled pork sandwiches were prepared using the same methods as in the restaurants in the embassy's cooking space and served fresh to the embassy officials who served as judges. The event proceeded in a relaxed atmosphere, with expressions of appreciation for the deliciousness heard between the rigorous judging.

What is the "U.S. Embassy-ATO Certified Program"?

The "U.S. Embassy-ATO Certified Program" was launched with the aim of promoting the appeal of U.S. beef and pork as ingredients and increasing their consumption in Japan. Restaurants selected through the screening process are awarded a "Certified Restaurant" certificate and logo by the U.S. Embassy-ATO. The first program, held last year, targeted hamburger shops using 100% U.S. beef, and six restaurants were certified.

【Scenes from the Day】

Participants entered the embassy in the morning each day and began preparations in the cafeteria. While the menus were the same, they aimed for "freshly made, authentic restaurant taste" using cooking methods and ingredients specific to each restaurant, preparing for the judging and tasting.

Participants expressed their delight, saying, "It's great to be able to participate alongside other famous restaurants in the same industry," "It's an honor to be evaluated by embassy staff who know authentic flavors," "It's rare to be recognized by a public institution, so we are grateful and want to utilize this," and "We want people to enjoy the usual taste we offer at our restaurants."

During the judging, three tasting-sized Cuban sandwiches (June 10) and three pulled pork sandwiches (June 11) were served, and approximately 150 judges each day tasted them and filled out evaluation sheets. Participants commented, "It's indistinguishable from the taste I get in America," and "The pork is tender, and the sauce is authentic and appealing."

【Reference】Characteristics of "U.S. Pork"

U.S. pork, raised in vast environments, is characterized by its tender texture and rich umami due to its moderate fat content. It is a nutritious ingredient containing high-quality protein and B vitamins, supplied under strict safety management systems from production to processing and distribution. Furthermore, large-scale and efficient production systems ensure uniform quality and stable supply, making it pork that is highly regarded worldwide for its taste, nutritional value, and excellent cost performance.

【Reference】About "Cuban Sandwich" and "Pulled Pork"

The "Cuban sandwich" is a popular hot sandwich in America, made with roasted pork, ham, cheese, and pickles sandwiched between bread and pressed until golden brown. It is a hearty dish where the rich umami of pork, the richness of cheese, and the refreshing acidity of pickles harmonize. "Pulled pork" is a popular dish originating from the southern United States, made by slow-cooking pork shoulder and shredding it. It is characterized by its tender, juicy texture and the natural umami of the pork, and pairs well with barbecue sauce, making it versatile for various dishes such as sandwiches and burgers. With "Cuban sandwiches" being commercialized by major convenience store chains and "pulled pork" gaining attention due to the camping boom in recent years, their deliciousness and recognition are gradually spreading in Japan.

"Embassy-ATO Certified American Pork Restaurants"

【Cuban Sandwiches】

"PAN"

・Address: 1-3-9 Minami-Kamata, Ota-ku, Tokyo

・Phone Number: (N/A)

・Business Hours: Mon, Fri 09:00~14:00,

Sat, Sun, Holidays 09:00~15:00

・Closed: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays

A Cuban sandwich specialty store located near Keikyu Kamata Station. Incorporating authentic American preparation methods, they offer genuine Cuban sandwiches made with slowly cooked pork and fragrant, toasted bread. Having won the Cuban Sandwich World Championship in 2024 and 2025, their taste is highly acclaimed both domestically and internationally. It is a popular restaurant where you can easily enjoy authentic American food culture while in Japan. URL: https://www.instagram.com/pan_kamata/

"SUNSETBEER FC"

・Address: 1-35-11 Arai, Nakano-ku, Tokyo

・Phone Number: (N/A)

・Business Hours: Mon, Tue, Sun 11:00~16:00

Fri, Sat 11:00~17:00

・Closed: Wednesdays, Thursdays

A specialty store focusing exclusively on craft beer and Cuban sandwiches. Their signature Cuban sandwich features a perfect balance of juicy roasted pork, ham, and cheese, pressed until fragrant. The spacious interior and terrace seating are also appealing, making it known as a place to enjoy authentic American food culture and relax. It is popular among many fans, who enjoy taking their sandwiches to go and exploring the popular Nakano area.

URL: https://www.instagram.com/sunsetbeerfc/?hl=ja

"DUCK DIVE"

・Address: 3275-1 Shimokiri, Kani City, Gifu Prefecture

・Phone Number: 0574-49-8453

・Business Hours: 11:00~16:00

・Closed: Irregular holidays

A specialty store based in Kani City, Gifu Prefecture, offering traditional-style Cuban sandwiches and pulled pork menus. Its authentic flavor, utilizing the umami of pork slow-cooked to perfection, is a key feature. They won the World Championship in 2023. In addition to restaurant operations, they also operate a food truck, appearing at local events and even in Tokyo, gaining popularity. They are highly supported locally and in various areas as a provider of American soul food.

URL: https://duck-dive.net/

【Pulled Pork Sandwiches】

"Antenna America Tokyo"

・Address: B1F, 2-1 Yaesu, Chuo-ku, Tokyo

・Phone Number: 03-6262-1906

・Business Hours: 11:00~23:00

・Closed: None

An entire showroom shop where you can experience authentic American food culture. Their signature pulled pork sandwich is a confident creation, combining U.S. pork slow-cooked in an American-imported smoker with a sweet and spicy BBQ sauce. Its moist, flavorful taste pairs exceptionally well with over 200 types of American beers available in the store. It is popular for offering "authentic America."

URL: https://www.antenna-america.com/pages/tokyo

"BYRD'S PIZZA & RIBS"

・Address: 1-1-6 Nakagawachuo, Tsuzuki-ku, Yokohama

・Phone Number: 045-515-2940

・Business Hours: Sat 11:30~22:00, Sun 11:30~21:00

・Closed: Mondays, Tuesdays (Open on national holidays)

An authentic American dining establishment based on Southern American BBQ culture. Their original pulled pork sandwich uses pork carefully slow-cooked over time to bring out its tender texture and natural meatiness. It features a savory flavor and satisfying texture, offering a taste of authentic American BBQ culture.

URL: https://www.byrdsmotherlucy.com/

"O.GARDEN"

・Address: 5-8 Harumi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo (Tokyo Metropolitan Harumi Pier Park)

・Phone Number: 070-8807-0863

・Business Hours:

Summer Period (3/20~11/30)

Weekdays 11:00~18:00, Sat, Sun, Holidays 10:00~18:00

Winter Period (12/1~3/19)

Weekdays 11:00~17:00, Sat, Sun, Holidays 10:00~17:00

・Closed: Tuesdays

An open and airy restaurant located within Tokyo Metropolitan Harumi Pier Park. Their original pulled pork sandwich is a signature dish featuring generous amounts of pork slow-cooked to tenderness, allowing you to enjoy its juicy umami. It pairs well with the fragrant toasted bread and can be enjoyed with the park's rich scenery. They offer a casual American dining experience.

URL: https://www.o-garden.tokyo/

【About the U.S. Embassy】

For information about the U.S. Embassy and Agricultural Trade Office (ATO), please refer to the following:

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, Japan Office:

https://www.usdajapan.org/ja/

U.S. Embassy HP: https://jp.usembassy.gov/ja/

U.S. Embassy X (Twitter): https://x.gd/Mhvjw

U.S. Embassy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usembassytokyo/?hl=ja

【About the U.S. Meat Export Federation】 https://x.gd/jOpms

The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) is the representative organization of the U.S. meat industry, established by U.S. livestock and meat product companies and organizations to promote them internationally. USMEF engages in various activities to expand opportunities for industry stakeholders and consumers to learn about the deliciousness of American meat.

For information about the U.S. Meat Export Federation, please refer to the following:

Official HP: https://www.americanmeat.jp/

Official X (Twitter): https://x.com/usmeat_jp

Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/american_meat_jp/

Gochipo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gochipo_jp/

Official Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAxXtqKzRVG2bOtP-HQIhyg

Official LINE: https://page.line.me/967uouat

Gochipo LINE: https://page.line.me/americanpork