Australia’s obsession with Japanese culture spans, music, art, and our personal favourite, food. We’re not talking about ramen because while we will never turn down a bowl of ramen, we also can’t get over all the snacks and drinks you can find in a 7-Eleven. If you’ve never been to a 7-Eleven in Japan, do yourself a favour and make it a priority the next time you’re there.
But for now, Japan’s favourite snacks and drinks are coming to our shelves, and we’re grateful. You might remember when Minus 196 arrived on Australian shores. There was a frenzy, and while it’s still a staple for many today, the craze has fizzled.
Picking it back up again is the highly anticipated arrival of Kirin, the Japanese pioneer of canned vodka pre-mixed drinks. Renowned as the number one pre-mix drinks brand in Japan, this is the first time Kirin Hyoketsu has been available outside of Japan.
Thankfully for us, they picked Australia as the first country to introduce the drink to the world.
So what is it? Kirin Hyoketsu Lemon is a blend of vodka, soda and frozen natural lemon juice that reflects the energetic streets of Tokyo. It’s loved for its juicy flavour and refreshing taste. It has a 6% ABV and only 0.3g of sugar for a total of 116 calories per can.
Whether planning a karaoke night or hitting up a house party with mates, an ice-cold can of Kirin Hyoketsu is the perfect companion for epic gatherings and moments of celebration.
Kirin Hyoketsu is available in bottle shops including Dan Murphy’s across Australia and will set you back $21.99 for a four-pack and $47.99 for a 10-pack.
Mexican restaurant chain Mad Mex has dropped a new protein, and it’s one of the most popular street foods in Mexico.
Enter, Chicken Al Pastor. It’s traditionally made with pork and grilled on a spinning rotisserie with a pineapple sitting a top, but Mad Mex has put its own spin on it, serving chicken bathed in an Al Pastor marinade with a touch of juicy pineapple.
You can order the protein-packed filling in your favourite burrito, bowl, quesadilla, nachos, or in a taco.
As always, these things are here for a good time, not a long time. Pop into your local Mad Mex restaurant, order delivery or through the Mad Mex app today.
