30 Must-Try Local Dishes in Hiroshima: From Okonomiyaki to Soupless Tantanmen

Photograph:ゆきまど

Okonomiyaki Micchan Sohonten Hatchobori Honten is located just a 5-minute walk from Hatchobori Station on the Hiroshima Electric Railway. It is known as the original creator of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.

The restaurant offers both counter and table seating.

Photograph:レイジタッチー

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is a local specialty that features noodles -- your choice of yakisoba or udon. It is served fully cooked and ready to enjoy.

It's notable for being a big portion that will fill you up.

Photograph:レイジタッチー

The "Hatchobori Honten Set" features a combination of okonomiyaki, pork offal, and oysters, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors.

The "Hiroshima Set" includes grilled beef chuck and Hiroshima-style kimchi made from pickled greens, perfect for pairing with beer.

Photograph:よっしー♫

Okonomiyaki Hassho is a well-known restaurant that often attracts lines of eager diners. The restaurant offers around 32 seats, including both counter and table seating.

Your okonomiyaki is served hot on the teppan grill right in front of you. Conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from Ginzancho Station on the Hiroshima Electric Railway.

Photograph:yuyuyu0147

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Okonomiyaki Hassho is simple, with just three varieties on offer. The most popular is the "Soba Niku Tama," featuring crispy grilled noodles and a savory, caramelized sauce.

Other options include "Udon Niku Tama" and "Yasai Niku Tama."

Photograph:鮭と宛

In addition to okonomiyaki, the menu features dishes such as ika-ten (deep-fried squid), suji-pon, and nikomi (stewed dishes).

Pictured is the suji-pon: tender stewed beef tendon served with ponzu sauce. It pairs perfectly with beer.

Photograph:ぺーぱーかんぱにー

Okonomiyaki Tatsu features just nine seats, including both counter and raised tatami seating. Though compact, the restaurant is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere.

It's located a 7-minute walk from JR Hiroshima Station.

Photograph:鴨1229

Hiroshima's signature local dish, Hiroshima-yaki, is offered here with either pork, egg, and soba noodles or pork, egg, and udon noodles. The cabbage is steamed on the griddle, bringing out its natural sweetness.

Once cooked, the okonomiyaki is generously topped with green onions, a hallmark of this restaurant's style.

Photograph:hata924

The photo shows the "Wagyu Kone," an à la carte dish. The lean meat is said to become more flavorful with each bite, while the fatty part is tender and slightly sweet.

Other specialties include "Ichiyaboshi Horumon" (overnight-dried offal) and "Tontoro" (pork cheek).

Photograph:お肉モンスター

Denkou Sekka ekie Hiroshima is located on the second floor of ekie, directly connected to JR Hiroshima Station. The restaurant is known for its okonomiyaki, made with carefully selected ingredients from Hiroshima.

The interior has a casual izakaya-style atmosphere and offers seating for about 50 guests.

Photograph:三原太郎1215

Hiroshima-yaki, a local specialty, is known for its distinctive dome shape. Generous portions of noodles are wrapped in a thin omelet, giving it an omurice-like appearance.

The flavors of green onions and shiso leaves add a refreshing accent to the dish.

Photograph:シーズー研

The à la carte menu features a variety of local Hiroshima specialties, such as "Hiroshima Oyster Teppan-yaki," "Signature Salt-grilled Beef Kōne (brisket)," and "Grilled Setouchi Anago"

The "Hiroshima Oyster Teppan-yaki" is especially popular for its plump, flavorful oysters.

Photograph:mayupapa

Fumi Chan Nagarekawa is an okonomiyaki restaurant known for its refreshing, light-style sauce. Conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from Hiroshima Dentetsu’s Ebisu-cho tram stop.

The restaurant offers 52 seats, including both counter and table seating.

Photograph:村長さん0501

The local specialty, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, is prepared by first boiling the noodles before grilling them. The batter is flavored with a rich bonito dashi.

A bottle of sauce is provided at each table, allowing guests to add extra sauce to taste.

Photograph:村長さん0501

The restaurant's signature dish is the "Beef Tendon Stew," generously topped with green onions until the stew itself is almost hidden.

Other recommended side dishes include Chanja (spicy cod innards) and refreshing kimchi.

Photograph:246_246

Okonomiyaki Koshida Honten is a neighborhood favorite specializing in okonomiyaki. During peak hours, expect to wait for a table.

The restaurant features mainly counter seating, with semi-private table options also available.

Photograph:urauratakanori

The menu at Okonomiyaki Koshida features okonomiyaki, teppan-yaki, and a variety of à la carte dishes. Their signature Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is generously layered with cabbage, bringing out its natural sweetness.

The noodles are grilled to a crisp, adding another delicious texture to the dish.

Photograph:urauratakanori

“Miyake no Gansu” is a type of seasoned fish cake that is beloved in Hiroshima. For many visitors from outside the prefecture, it offers a unique local flavor they may be trying for the first time.

The playful presentation of mayonnaise adds a fun touch to the dish as well.

Photograph:コ〜タロウ

Icchan Honten is an okonomiyaki restaurant located a 10-minute walk from JR Hiroshima Station. With counter seating available, it offers a casual and convenient dining experience.

Guests can enjoy a variety of okonomiyaki, including options with cheese or oysters.

Photograph:かなきち君★

The photo shows Hiroshima-yaki, a signature local specialty. The batter is light and fluffy, while the noodles are crisp and satisfying.

The basic ingredients are simple: cabbage, pork, and egg. It is finished with a mildly sweet, light sauce that complements the flavors perfectly.

Photograph:cocomamacocosan

The à la carte menu features dishes such as Tonpei-yaki, grilled oysters, Jakoten (fried fish cake), and spicy stir-fried squid.

The Tonpei-yaki is especially popular for its crisp green onions, which add a refreshing accent to the dish.

Photograph:flowerwell

Okonomiyaki Tecchan Honten is an okonomiyaki restaurant with about 26 seats, offering both counter and table seating.

The warm, welcoming atmosphere attracts a diverse range of customers and is always lively with guests of all ages.

Photograph:かなきち君★

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is known for its thin, delicate batter and fluffy interior.

The natural sweetness of cabbage comes through, making it easy to enjoy bite after bite. A variety of ingredients are available to suit every taste.

Photograph:ほか弁

"Mihara-yaki" is a unique style of okonomiyaki that features chicken giblets. The Mihara area, where the restaurant is located, is well known for its poultry farming, and Mihara-yaki is considered a local specialty.

The types of giblets used vary depending on the season, but may include liver, gizzard, or kinkan (chicken ovary).

Photograph:グルタミン酸333

Okonomiyaki Murakami is an okonomiyaki restaurant located in Onomichi City, just past the Onomichi Hondori Shopping Street.

It is an 8-minute bus ride from Shin-Onomichi Station, followed by a 4-minute walk from the bus stop. The restaurant is intimate, with only nine counter seats.

Photograph:ShuShuFilmsの食べログ

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is known for its wide variety, with over 10 different options available, including limited-time seasonal dishes.

The "Onomichi-yaki Plus" features a unique combination of pork, ika-ten (fried squid), and sunazuri (chicken gizzard).

Photograph:kinako-anko

The "Kaki Special" is a hearty okonomiyaki packed with oysters, squid, pork, and ika-ten (fried squid).

The oysters are known for their plump texture and rich umami flavor, complemented by the subtle sweetness of the ika-ten.

Photograph:チャピログ

Kaki Fune Kanawa is a specialty oyster restaurant located just a 4-minute walk from the Genbaku Dome-mae stop on the Hiroshima Electric Railway. The restaurant offers a serene atmosphere perfect for enjoying oyster dishes.

The unique building floats on the Motoyasu River, allowing guests to dine while taking in beautiful river views.

Photograph:mogumogu3939

The lunch menu features the "O-hiru no Kaki-zukushi," a set that lets you fully enjoy Hiroshima's signature oysters.

Oysters are served in various styles, including simmered tofu fritter (hirosu), grilled, and fried. To finish off the meal, oyster rice is served.

Photograph:新人グルメ

A la carte oyster dishes are also available. For fresh oysters, a variety of premium oyster brands are selected depending on the season.

On one occasion, the "Sentan" oyster was featured, known for its rich, fresh scent of the ocean.

Photograph:みっち

Kaki Den is a long-standing restaurant specializing in oysters and conger eel dishes, with a history spanning 40 years. Conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from the Shinkansen Exit of JR Hiroshima Station.

The interior features a sophisticated and tranquil atmosphere, offering sunken kotatsu seating and semi-private rooms for a comfortable dining experience.

Photograph:fly to the moon

The signature dish here is the "Fried Oyster Set Meal," available at lunch. It comes with freshly fried oysters, a side of fresh vegetables, rice, miso soup, and a small side dish.

The oysters are coated in a crisp, golden breading and served piping hot so you can enjoy them at their best.

Photograph:fly to the moon

At lunchtime, you can enjoy a variety of oyster dishes à la carte. Pictured is the grilled oyster.

The restaurant uses "Kaki Komachi," a premium oyster variety from Hiroshima, known for its large size. These oysters are plump and exceptionally juicy.

Photograph:jun_yh

Milky Tetsuo no Kakigoya Ujina is a seasonal oyster hut located in Hiroshima Minato Park, near Hiroshima Port.

Guests can enjoy the unique experience of grilling their own oysters. With over 200 seats available, the restaurant offers plenty of space for visitors.

Photograph:りょ＊

At Milky Tetsuo no Kakigoya, guests select their seafood before grilling it themselves. The signature oysters are naturally briny and delicious even without any seasoning.

Soy sauce, ponzu, and other condiments are available at each table, allowing you to enjoy the oysters with a variety of flavors.

Photograph:りょ＊

In addition to oysters, a wide variety of fresh seafood is available, including scallops, shrimp, turban shells, and even octopus skewers. You can also enjoy vegetables and sausages.

Kakimeshi (oyster rice) is also offered for those wanting a proper meal.

Photograph:おっさんのはじめの一歩

Miyamae is an izakaya renowned for its seafood dishes, with their oyster specialties especially popular among guests. The restaurant offers both counter seating and traditional raised-floor seating for a comfortable dining experience.

It is located a 5-minute walk from Fukuromachi Station on the Hiroshima Electric Railway.

Photograph:てりー14892

A classic choice in Hiroshima, oyster dishes are offered in a wide variety. Enjoy everything from fresh oysters to grilled oysters, fried oysters, and oysters served with ponzu sauce.

The pairing of specially selected Japanese sake with oysters is also a highlight.

Photograph:shikon3333

Hiroshima specialties are also featured on the menu. Pictured is the "Shirayaki (grilled without sauce) of conger eel from Hiroshima Port," served with wasabi and grated Japanese radish for a refreshing taste.

Other offerings include Gansu (fried fish cake), Tebira Karei (flatfish), and Kone (brisket).

Photograph:tabelog.com

Kaki Goya Ryumeimaru is an oyster shack-style restaurant located near the sea, where you can enjoy fresh oysters year-round—a major highlight for oyster lovers.

The restaurant offers around 40 table seats and is open only on weekends.

Photograph:ｶﾊﾞ

Classic Hiroshima oysters are served both in the shell and as the premium "Kaki Komachi" variety.

Grilled oysters are especially popular for their flavorful juices, while the raw oysters are known for their plump texture and natural sweetness.

Photograph:シュン1085

Side dishes include Fried Oysters, Kaki-meshi (oyster rice), and Kesennuma Scallops, among others.

The Fried Oysters are perfectly crispy and highly recommended with just a squeeze of lemon for a simple, refreshing flavor.

Photograph:umaimono-daisuki

Kakiya features a stylish, modern interior, creating an elegant atmosphere perfect for dates.

Enjoy Hiroshima’s signature oysters prepared in a variety of delicious styles.

Photograph:のっくす東京

The "Kakiya Set Meal" is a feast of oysters, featuring a variety of preparations such as oysters marinated in oil, simmered oysters in soy sauce, and grilled oysters.

The grilled oysters are served freshly cooked, accompanied by plenty of flavorful oyster juices.

Photograph:kitabomb

Enjoy a variety of à la carte oyster dishes at Kakiya. Their "Kaki Fry" features large, juicy oysters sourced from Hiroshima, coated in a crispy batter.

They are delicious whether paired with tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon.

Photograph:cochran

Shimada Suisan is a large oyster house with seating for 200 guests, including an open-air terrace.

Here, you can savor fresh oysters while enjoying beautiful ocean views of the Seto Inland Sea.

Photograph:cheva553

The classic grilled oysters here are impressively large. Fresh off the grill, they are served piping hot, with the natural oyster juices adding to their delicious flavor.

While they are excellent on their own, a splash of soy sauce is also highly recommended.

Photograph:90tourerv

The photo shows the "Kaki-zukushi Set Meal," which features grilled oysters, fried oysters, and oyster rice, with even more oysters in the clear soup. This set is also known for its excellent value.

A "Fried Oyster Set Meal" is also available.

Photograph:eb2002621

Chuka Soba Kunimatsu is conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from the Tatemachi stop on the Hiroshima Electric Railway. The interior features a calm and inviting atmosphere with dark brown accents throughout.

The restaurant offers around 21 seats, including both counter and table seating.

Photograph:じゅん67

The signature dish here is "soupless tantanmen," a dry-style spicy noodle. Made with a base of chicken broth and soy sauce, it features just the right amount of heat from chili peppers and a tingling kick from Sichuan peppercorns.

The balance of spiciness and umami is perfectly tuned. You can choose from several levels of spiciness to suit your preference.

Photograph:Yuta Ike

Many customers choose to add a side of rice and a soft-boiled egg to their "soupless tantanmen."

Adding the soft-boiled egg makes the flavor milder. At the end, it's common to mix the rice into the remaining sauce and enjoy it together.

Photograph:呉おとお

Onomichi Ramen Akatsuki offers authentic Onomichi-style ramen right in Hiroshima City, so you don't need to travel all the way to Onomichi to enjoy this local specialty.

The restaurant seats around 18 guests with both counter and table seating available. Conveniently located just a 2-minute walk from Hatchobori Station on the Hiroshima Electric Railway.

Photograph:ズラリン

Onomichi ramen is a classic local specialty, featuring a rich soy sauce-based broth topped with pork back fat for extra depth of flavor.

The thin noodles are well coated with the savory soup. Toppings are simple, including sliced pork (chashu), bamboo shoots (menma), and green onions.

Photograph:makoちん0411

The "Special Set" includes ramen, half-size fried rice, and chicken kara-age.

The fried rice is light and fluffy with a well-balanced flavor, while the chicken kara-age is crispy on the outside and juicy inside.

Photograph:かぴぱら556

Kunimatsu + Musashibo is a ramen shop located on the first floor of ekie, directly connected to Hiroshima Station. It is highly regarded for allowing guests to enjoy the flavors of two renowned restaurants in one place.

The shop features only counter seating, ensuring quick service and making it easy to enjoy a meal even when short on time.

Photograph:いのまー

The classic local specialty, soupless dandan noodles, are available in several levels of spiciness. Pictured is the recommended "Goma 1-Spice" version.

The signature style here is to thoroughly mix the noodles before eating. The result is a balanced heat with plenty of savory flavor.

Photograph:ばすけーた

The "Half & Half" is a great-value menu option that lets you enjoy both Kunimatsu and Musashibo at the same time.

On the left in the photo is Kunimatsu, known for its mild and rich flavor. On the right is Musashibo, which delivers a spiciness that builds with each bite.

Photograph:と＠

Chuka Soba Youki Otemachi is conveniently located just steps from Chuden-mae Station on the Hiroshima Electric Railway. This popular restaurant has several locations throughout Hiroshima City.

The interior features both counter and table seating, with space for approximately 24 guests.

Photograph:ほあたー

The menu at Chuka Soba Youki is refreshingly simple, offering only their signature "Chuka Soba" ramen, along with onigiri rice balls and beer.

The "Chuka Soba" features a pork bone and soy sauce-based broth, with black pepper provided at the table for seasoning.

Photograph:ほあたー

The "Chuka Soba" soup is made with a blend of pork, chicken, and vegetables, resulting in a rich yet well-balanced flavor. The tare (seasoning sauce) uses a slightly sweet soy base.

The broth offers the savory depth of pork without any overpowering notes, and pairs perfectly with the straight, thin noodles.

Photograph:お肉モンスター

Shirunashi Tantanmen Center Kingken Yakukenbori Branch is a ramen restaurant with only counter seating. With several locations throughout Hiroshima City, this particular branch is open exclusively in the evenings.

It is especially popular with customers looking for a meal after a night out.

Photograph:〆ラー1000㌔㌍

The menu features only one dish: the classic Shirunashi Tantanmen (soupless spicy noodles). Guests can choose their preferred spice level, ranging from "Level 1" to "Level 4," as well as options for a large size or additional toppings.

The signature way to enjoy this dish is to thoroughly mix all the ingredients together before eating.

Photograph:まこたけ

The soy sauce-based sauce is infused with plenty of sansho pepper, giving it a distinctive numbing sensation rather than just spiciness.

Thin, straight noodles pair perfectly with the sauce. Adding half a serving of rice to the remaining sauce at the end is also highly recommended.

Photograph:しゅんしゅんパパ

Onomichi Ramen Iccho is a specialty ramen shop located just a two-minute walk from the south exit of JR Fukuyama Station. This popular restaurant is lively at all hours and often draws lines even before opening.

The shop features only counter seating with approximately 23 seats available.

Photograph:kakak389

Onomichi ramen is a classic local specialty, featuring a rich and well-balanced double broth made from chicken and seafood. Despite the floating pork back fat, the flavor remains surprisingly light and refreshing.

Thin noodles are served with sliced pork (chashu), green onions, and bamboo shoots (menma).

Photograph:kuro☆pon

The menu also features a Kara-age Set, which includes ramen served with rice and freshly fried chicken kara-age. This hearty combination is sure to satisfy your appetite.

The kara-age is served hot and crispy, accompanied by a side of fresh vegetables.

Photograph:ナカちゃん

Mendokoro Itsuka is a well-known ramen restaurant located in Kure City, just a 7-minute walk from JR Kure Station. The menu features both ramen and tsukemen.

The restaurant has around 15 seats, including counter and table seating, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere.

Photograph:ちぃ

The signature "Tsukesoba" can be enjoyed with noodles served either hot or cold. The dipping sauce features a chicken-based broth with a hint of fish powder for extra depth.

The noodles are house-made using Japanese wheat, offering a rich aroma and flavor that can be enjoyed even on their own.

Photograph:くぴぷち

"Tori Soba" is a salt-based ramen featuring a rich, flavorful chicken broth. The soup is known for its deep umami and creamy texture.

Other options include "Katsuo Tori Soba" (with bonito flavor) and "Shinratsu RED Tori Soba" (spicy chicken ramen).

Photograph:リトルミスグルタミン

Ichibankan is a ramen restaurant located a 10-minute walk from JR Onomichi Station. The restaurant offers both counter and table seating, as well as sunroom-style seats.

The interior is bright and clean, creating a welcoming atmosphere that is comfortable even for guests dining alone.

Photograph:にゃんこ先生は魚が好き

Onomichi ramen, a local favorite, is available in several varieties including "Ramen," "Ajitama Ramen" (with seasoned egg), and "Chashu Ramen" (with braised pork).

The classic "Ramen" features a well-balanced blend of rich pork back fat and savory soy sauce. The noodles are said to be firm in texture.

Photograph:かんな921

The Kakuni Ramen is the restaurant's most popular dish, featuring generous portions of tender, slow-braised pork belly. The meat is exceptionally soft and flavorful. Set menus are also available, which include rice and gyoza for a satisfying meal.

Photograph:おにゃふ

Onomichi Ramen Maruboshi is a popular ramen restaurant known for drawing long lines. The restaurant offers around 26 seats, with both counter and table seating available. It is located about a 15-minute walk from JR Onomichi Station.

In addition to ramen, a variety of side dishes are also offered.

Photograph:だいまじん

Onomichi ramen is a classic local specialty. The soup is known for its rich flavor with a clean, light finish, and it is said to retain its warmth for longer than most.

Thin, curly noodles pair perfectly with the flavorful broth.

Photograph:だいまじん

The "karaage" (Japanese fried chicken) is said to be perfectly crispy, with generous, large pieces.

Other side dishes include "gyoza" (dumplings) and "jakogohan" (rice topped with dried baby sardines), among others.

Photograph:mods35_2

Tsutafuji is a long-established and popular ramen restaurant. The cozy interior features only counter seating and is always bustling with customers.

Located about a 15-minute walk from JR Onomichi Station.

Photograph:ハマちゃん つきさっぷ

The classic "chuka soba" here is considered the quintessential Onomichi ramen, offering a truly authentic flavor.

The broth, topped with floating pork back fat, is rich and served piping hot. It is also said to have a subtle sweetness.

Photograph:toshifumu

The "chuka soba" features medium-thin, straight noodles that perfectly absorb the broth, offering a pleasantly chewy texture.

Toppings include chashu pork, green onions, and bamboo shoots. The chashu is made with lean pork, adding to its distinctive flavor.

Photograph:yuyuyu0147

Anagomeshi Ueno Miyajimaguchi Honten is a specialty restaurant dedicated to anago (conger eel) dishes, with over a century of history since its founding in 1901.

The restaurant features a traditional Japanese house-style interior with both first and second floors. Conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from JR Miyajimaguchi Station.

Photograph:foodie.in.japan

The signature dish here is "anagomeshi"—grilled conger eel prepared in a savory kabayaki style.

The rice is cooked in a flavorful broth made from eel, perfectly complementing the sweet and savory sauce.

Photograph:foodie.in.japan

The menu also features "Anago Shiroyaki" (grilled sea eel without sauce) and "Anago Kabayaki" (grilled sea eel with sweet soy sauce glaze).

Pictured is the "Anago Shiroyaki." Compared to eel, anago (sea eel) is lighter and less fatty, resulting in a more delicate flavor. It is said to be delicious even when simply enjoyed with a sprinkle of salt.

Photograph:ジョニー７２

Oyatsu to Yamaneko is a specialty pudding shop located just a 3-minute walk from JR Onomichi Station.

The shop features a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of a traditional Japanese candy store, offering a warm and inviting experience. Please note that all items are available for take away only.

Photograph:大阪めんま

The signature item here is the "Onomichi Pudding." In addition to the classic plain pudding, there are also other varieties such as matcha and café au lait flavors.

A selection of baked goods, including muffins and cookies, is also available.

Photograph:急にラーメン食べたい病

Onomichi Pudding is a classic, firm-style custard with a smooth, creamy texture.

It comes with a lemon sauce served in a soy sauce dispenser. Pouring the sauce over the pudding gives it a cheesecake-like flavor.

Photograph:よっしー♫

Aki Chan is known for its signature dish: tempura made with horumon (offal). The restaurant features both counter and table seating, creating a casual, welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of a neighborhood eatery.

Just a 2-minute walk from Fukushima-cho Station on the Hiroshima Electric Railway.

Photograph:ジョニー７２

The classic local specialty here is "Horumon Tempura," featuring selections such as honeycomb tripe, omasum, and ogimo (spleen). The house style is to enjoy these with a ponzu sauce spiced with chili pepper.

The horumon is expertly prepared with no unpleasant odor, making it a perfect pairing with beer.

Photograph:ジョニー７２

Oden is also one of the restaurant’s most popular dishes. Served in a large pot, guests can help themselves to their preferred ingredients.

There is a wide variety of oden items available. The photo features egg and beef tendon, both thoroughly infused with the sweet and savory broth.

Photograph:dreamer.

Yamada Ya Miyajima Honten is a traditional Japanese confectionery shop located in the shopping district of Miyajima. It is especially popular among visitors looking for souvenirs from their trip to Miyajima.

The shop mainly offers take-away items, and also provides a small space where customers can take a short break.

Photograph:山崎川 五十郎

The classic treat here is Momiji Manju, one of Hiroshima’s most famous traditional sweets. Yamada Ya offers a variety of flavors to choose from.

The standard type features a soft, fluffy cake filled with smooth, mildly sweet red bean paste.

Photograph:dreamer.

"COLOCOLO MOMIJI" is also a popular item. These are bite-sized momiji manju cakes made only from the dough, with no filling, enjoyed by dipping them into a variety of sauces.

In addition to matcha and chocolate, sauce options include anko butter and honey fromage, offering a fun and unique tasting experience.