TOKYO, Japan — Burger King Japan is marking its support for the growing sport of pickleball with a new limited-time menu item: the Pickleball Burger. The launch coincides with the fast-food chain’s new sponsorship agreement with the Japan Pickleball Federation (PJF).
Pickleball, a racquet sport that blends elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is gaining popularity in Japan. Burger King’s sponsorship will be prominently featured during the PJF Pickleball Japan Open in Sasebo, Nagasaki, this June, and again at the PJF Pickleball Japan League Burger King Cup in Tokyo’s Ariake district in August.
To celebrate the partnership, Burger King has created a special burger inspired by the sport. The new Pickleball Burger is described as a large, American-style rice burger, featuring three flame-grilled 100% beef patties layered between two rice patties. These rice patties have been developed in collaboration with Hachidaime Gihey, a well-known rice specialist based in Kyoto.
Hachidaime Gihey, which previously worked with Burger King on the Kyoto Whopper, brings its expertise in rice selection and preparation to the new burger. The rice patties are made using a blend of white rice and a variety of brown rice called Kin-no-Ibuki. The combination enhances the flavor of the beef while highlighting the rice’s natural sweetness and smooth texture.
As its name suggests, the Pickleball Burger also features pickles—eleven of them—stacked between the layers of beef and rice. The burger is built with just three main ingredients: beef, rice, and pickles. This minimal approach allows each element to stand out, offering a unique taste experience that emphasizes quality.
The Pickleball Burger will be available in Japan for a limited time starting May 30. It will be priced at 1,790 yen (approximately US$12.28).
Related topics:
- Sonic Enters the Specialty Drink Market with Three New Sweet Topped Lemonades
- Takis Introduces First Sweet Flavor Inspired by Popular Taco Bell Dessert
- Maryland’s First McDonald’s On-The-Go Location Now Open in North Bethesda