30 Must-Try Gourmet Experiences in Fukuoka: Top Picks by Area, Centered Around Fukuoka City

Photograph:名探店コナン☆

Located about a 6-minute walk from Hakata Station, Hakata Issou Honten is a renowned ramen shop run by Hakata-born brothers. Known for its exceptional Hakata-style ramen, it has become a favorite among both locals and tourists alike.

Open from lunchtime until late at night, the restaurant often attracts lines of customers even in the evening, a testament to its popularity.

Photograph:096d38

The signature dish here is ramen, known for its uniquely frothy pork bone broth—so creamy it's often called "Tonkotsu Cappuccino." The rich, flavorful soup is simmered over high heat for hours to achieve its depth.

Served with thin, flat noodles, the ramen is surprisingly light, making it easy to enjoy an extra serving if you wish.

Photograph:cr7yugo

The rich, flavorful broth is said to taste great even when poured over white rice. You can also customize the flavor by adding the takana pickles or ginger provided at your table.

Pictured is the "Staff Meal Rice Bowl" (Makanai Don). This value lunch set is available all day and includes a mini rice bowl topped with popular ingredients.

Photograph:出身は北海道

Located on the first floor of the JRJP Hakata Building, directly connected to Hakata Station, Kawa Taro specializes in fresh seafood dishes. Enjoy the flavors of Kyushu, whether for lunch or dinner.

The restaurant features a serene, Japanese-style interior, providing a relaxing dining experience. A large tank inside the restaurant ensures that diners can savor the freshest seafood available.

Photograph:東京旨いもの食べ歩き

The restaurant’s signature dish is "Ika Ikizukuri" (live squid sashimi), prepared swiftly from squid swimming in the tank.

Enjoy the natural sweetness and tender texture of the squid as is, or try it with salt, lemon, or wasabi soy sauce for a variety of flavors.

Photograph:さやーかー✳︎

One of Fukuoka’s signature local dishes, "Goma Saba" (mackerel with sesame sauce), is especially popular. Fresh, fatty mackerel is thinly sliced and served with a rich sesame sauce and a topping of nori seaweed.

The aroma of sesame and nori, combined with flavorful condiments, enhances the natural taste of the mackerel. It's also delicious served over rice.

Photograph:食べるポンポコリン

Aji Dokoro Taro Gen is a branch of a renowned kaiseki restaurant specializing in seafood, and has been selected as one of Tabelog's Top 100 Izakaya. Conveniently located about a five-minute walk from Hakata Station, the restaurant can be found in the basement of a commercial building.

Inside, guests can choose between counter seating and traditional tatami rooms, providing a calm and inviting atmosphere to enjoy both fine cuisine and drinks.

Photograph:yukar89975

Aji Dokoro Taro Gen offers a wide variety of dishes featuring fresh seafood sourced locally in Fukuoka, including sashimi, grilled items, and tempura, allowing guests to enjoy these ingredients in many different ways.

One of the most popular choices is the "Special Assorted Sashimi Platter," which includes several types of seasonal seafood known for their excellent texture and rich flavor.

Photograph:〆はモツ煮

You can enjoy Hakata's famous mentaiko (spicy cod roe) here, prepared in-house. Marinated with kombu kelp, it offers not only a spicy kick but also a rich umami flavor.

The "Homemade Kombu-Marinated Mentaiko" pairs perfectly with alcoholic beverages, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a drink with their meal. It can also be enjoyed as ochazuke (rice with tea or broth).

Photograph:ひろチン

This restaurant specializes in Fukuoka's signature dish, Motsu-nabe (offal hot pot). Conveniently located about a five-minute walk from Hakata Station's Chikushi Exit, it faces Nakahi Park.

The interior features a calm, modern Japanese design with both table and traditional tatami seating. Whether dining alone or with others, guests can enjoy a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.

Photograph:omihochan

The specialty here is Wagyu beef motsu-nabe (offal hot pot), available in three flavorful broths: miso, soy sauce, and spicy. Each hot pot is generously filled with tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef offal.

Orders are available per person, and even if the portion looks large, the light and delicious taste makes it easy to finish.

Photograph:とうちか

The most popular flavor of motsu-nabe here is the miso broth. The restaurant blends several types of miso that pair perfectly with garlic, and the richness of the beef offal adds a wonderfully balanced depth to the soup.

Many guests order Hakata-style curly noodles to finish the meal. The noodles soak up the rich, flavorful broth, making for a satisfying end to your hot pot experience.

Photograph:Tocchan-k

A long-standing Chinese restaurant established over 45 years ago and now run by its second-generation owner, Ganso Pikaichi is renowned for serving "Hakata Sara Udon," a beloved local specialty that only true food enthusiasts know about.

Located about a 6-minute walk from the Hakata Exit of Hakata Station, this flagship location is open continuously from lunchtime through the evening, making it easy to visit at any time of day.

Photograph:tamtam0306

The signature "Hakata Sara Udon" features homemade, chewy noodles stir-fried with vegetables and seafood. The dish has a light, delicate flavor with a subtle seafood-based dashi.

The house-made spicy takana (pickled mustard greens) available at the table adds a touch of heat and a crisp texture, making a perfect accent when added to the Sara Udon.

Photograph:059e78

The recommended dish here is the Champon featured in the photo. It uses the same noodles and ingredients as their Sara Udon, but is served as ramen.

The light, delicate flavor makes it easy to enjoy, and some guests like to add Worcestershire sauce or vinegar from the table for a change of taste as they eat.

Photograph:kasumi_ike

This restaurant offers a refined, oriental-inspired setting where you can enjoy Hakata-style motsu-nabe hot pot. Conveniently located on the second floor of a building just a three-minute walk from Hakata Station's Chikushi Exit.

The stylish interior features a sophisticated blend of white and dark brown tones, providing the perfect atmosphere to savor Fukuoka's gourmet specialties in an elegant mood.

Photograph:aki_11

The signature "Motsu-nabe" (beef offal hot pot) is especially popular with its miso-flavored broth. The soup is made by blending Kyushu miso and is known for its rich garlic aroma.

Only fresh, domestically sourced beef small intestines are used, carefully prepared to remove any unwanted flavors. The result is a hot pot featuring tender, springy morsels with a natural sweetness.

Photograph:Yuri 758

Motsu-nabe hot pot is available a la carte for a minimum of two servings, but at lunchtime, there is a special "single-serving motsu-nabe" option for solo diners. This portion is about 1.5 times larger than a standard serving, but it is so delicious that even one person can easily finish it.

You can also customize the flavor with condiments like yuzu kosho and chili peppers, so you'll never tire of the taste.

Photograph:チトセマチ

This restaurant has received rave reviews for serving an exceptional bowl of authentic Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen, earning a spot on the Tabelog 100 Ramen WEST list.

Located in Shimo-Gofukumachi, Hakata Ward, away from the bustling downtown area and without even a signboard, this popular spot continues to attract repeat customers and ramen enthusiasts from near and far.

Photograph:おりょう0914

The signature ramen here features a creamy, white tonkotsu broth that completely covers the noodles. The soup offers a rich, authentic pork flavor unique to Fukuoka.

Thin noodles are used, allowing the thick, flavorful broth to cling to them perfectly, so you can enjoy both together in every bite.

Photograph:haute9

The restaurant’s signature dish is "Curry-Flavored Kaedama"—extra noodles topped with a touch of curry roux. To enjoy, simply add the curry-topped noodles to your ramen bowl and mix.

The addition of curry brings a surprising twist to the rich tonkotsu broth. You can also order just the curry roux on the side.

Photograph:Tocchan-k

Located about a 3-minute walk from the Eki Higashi 3-chome bus stop in Hakata Minami, Hagakure Udon is a well-known udon restaurant that has been selected for Tabelog Udon WEST 100 Best Restaurants.

With around 20 seats, including both counter and raised tatami seating, the space is compact. While there may be lines during peak hours, the turnover is quick, making it easy to get a seat.

Photograph:辣油は飲み物

A distinctive feature of Fukuoka-style udon is the slightly flat, hand-kneaded noodles, which are boiled until they lose their bite. The resulting chewy texture is said to be truly addictive.

The clear broth is infused with the aroma of bonito flakes and offers a light, refreshing taste. Its mild flavor makes it easy to finish every last drop.

Photograph:niciさん

The most popular dish is the Niku Goboten Udon—udon noodles topped with crispy, thinly sliced burdock root tempura that resembles savory chips.

Other topping options include simmered eggs (tamago-toji) and shrimp kakiage fritters. Experience authentic Fukuoka-style udon with these local specialties.

Photograph:yuki26697

This restaurant has been serving authentic Hakata-style mizutaki hot pot for over 70 years. Conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from Nakasu-Kawabata Station, it is a local favorite for Fukuoka cuisine.

The walls inside are adorned with autographs from celebrities, reflecting the restaurant’s popularity. With a large number of seats and private rooms available, it is well suited for both groups and special occasions.

Photograph:☆北東西南☆

"Jidori Mizutaki," a specialty hot pot featuring free-range chicken, is rich in collagen, resulting in a milky, white broth. Made with chicken from Saga Prefecture, the soup is carefully simmered to create a deep, flavorful stock.

The meal begins with only bone-in chicken pieces simmering in the broth. Enjoy the soup first, seasoned simply with yuzu kosho and salt, to fully appreciate the rich, savory chicken flavor.

Photograph:すみ太郎

As the soup begins to boil, minced chicken and vegetables are added to the hot pot. The chicken meatballs soak up the flavorful broth, resulting in a rich and savory taste.

The sweetness of the vegetables enhances the soup, which is perfect for finishing with rice porridge or noodles. Even the house-made ponzu sauce served on the side is said to be delicious.

Photograph:ダンデライオンの爪あと

Established in the Meiji era, Shin Miura is a historic restaurant that began serving "Mizutaki"—a local Fukuoka specialty—after the arrival of the railway made it possible to receive fresh chicken.

Located about 15 minutes by car from Hakata Station, the restaurant features a traditional Japanese interior, offering a calm and relaxing dining experience.

Photograph:道場Rock三郎

Shin Miura is renowned for its signature Mizutaki hot pot, particularly for its exceptional broth. The soup is slow-simmered for hours using only chicken and water, drawing out all the rich flavors. This concentrated broth is then blended with a fresh chicken stock for added depth.

Even just tasting the soup on its own allows you to fully appreciate the deep, savory flavor of the chicken.

Photograph:頑固おやじ3

The bone-in chicken is said to be exceptionally tender, yet packed with flavor. The hot pot also features chicken meatballs, vegetables, and even mochi rice cakes that soak up the rich broth.

The meal finishes with "soup rice"—steamed rice topped with the flavorful broth and vegetable dashi, enjoyed in the style of ochazuke for a refined and satisfying end to your meal.

Photograph:まるむっく

Hakata Gion Tetsu Nabe is renowned for its signature "Tetsunabe Gyoza"—iron pan-fried dumplings that are also a staple of Hakata's famous yatai street food scene. The restaurant has been selected for Tabelog's Top 100 Gyoza Restaurants.

Located about a 3-minute walk from Gion Station, it is easily recognizable by its red tent and noren curtain. The restaurant is often busy with lines out front, but the turnover is quick, so you won’t have to wait long.

Photograph:po___ri_

The signature "Yaki Gyoza" features a serving of eight bite-sized dumplings. The photo shows three servings arranged together in a single iron pan.

The surface is crisp like fried gyoza, while the inside is moist and filled with chives. They are delicious with vinegar or yuzu kosho, and so easy to enjoy that you'll find yourself reaching for more.

Photograph:minokemu

During busy hours, additional orders of gyoza are not accepted, so it is recommended to order 2 to 3 servings per person right at the start. Thanks to the iron pan, the gyoza stay hot and delicious until the very last bite.

Local specialties such as "Okyuto" (seaweed jelly) and "Sumotsu" (vinegared offal) are also available as small plates, making perfect appetizers to enjoy while waiting for your gyoza.

Photograph:エムナイン

Located about a 5-minute walk from Nakasu-Kawabata Station and close to Hakataza Theater, Tori Den is a restaurant specializing in chicken dishes. Guests are welcomed by a chic, modern Japanese entrance adorned with a traditional noren curtain.

The restaurant features an open kitchen on the first floor, while the second floor offers private and semi-private rooms. Enjoy a relaxing dining experience in a spacious and comfortable setting.

Photograph:curu

The signature dish at Tori Den is "Mizutaki." This specialty features whole Kyushu-raised chicken, slowly simmered in water to create a rich, flavorful broth that highlights the natural taste of the chicken.

Enjoy three types of chicken—bone-in pieces, thigh, and breast—along with chicken meatballs. Try dipping fresh green onions into the hot broth and enjoying them together with the chicken for an exceptional experience.

Photograph:ほうがうら

In addition to the classic zosui (Japanese rice porridge), you can also enjoy luxurious options such as truffle risotto to finish your meal.

For those who prefer a bit of spice, the "Tantanmen Set"—noodles served in rich chicken broth with a touch of heat—is also available, making it a perfect way to end your dining experience.

Photograph:ほり69530

A beloved ramen shop born from Hakata's famous yatai food stalls, Hakata Ramen ShinShin has long been a favorite among both locals and visitors. Located just a 4-minute walk from Tenjin Station, look for its distinctive blue sign.

Inside, you'll find walls lined with autographs from celebrities. Open late into the night, it's the perfect spot to enjoy a bowl of ramen to end your day.

Photograph:ほっとたこやき

The signature dish here is "Hakata Junjo Ramen." Even those who usually avoid tonkotsu ramen find it easy to enjoy. The secret lies in the carefully prepared broth, made with pork bones, chicken, and aromatic vegetables, resulting in a refined flavor.

The ramen features thin noodles that are initially firm but gradually soften as you enjoy them in the soup.

Photograph:モグモグ１２３

Hakata Ramen ShinShin also serves "Yaki Ramen," a classic Hakata street food. This stir-fried noodle dish features a savory blend of tonkotsu and Worcestershire sauces, making it a perfect match for alcoholic drinks.

The menu also includes noodle dishes topped with mentaiko (spicy cod roe) and motsu (beef or pork offal), allowing you to enjoy a variety of authentic Hakata flavors.

Photograph:kinako-anko

Yari Udon is a casual Hakata udon restaurant that first opened over 45 years ago at Orio Station in Kitakyushu. Conveniently located on the second floor inside Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station, it offers easy access for travelers and commuters alike.

The restaurant features both counter seating and small tables, and is open from early in the morning. It is the perfect spot to enjoy a quick and satisfying bowl of udon at any time of day.

Photograph:はなしろこ

The photo features the signature "Tenka Sanso Udon," topped with an impressive goboten (deep-fried burdock root). The burdock is over 30 centimeters long and is served bridging across the bowl.

Despite its length, the burdock is perfectly crisp and light. It can be enjoyed on its own or dipped in the soup, both ways are delicious.

Photograph:クレヨンあんちゃん

The signature "Hakata Yari Udon" combines two of Hakata’s most beloved toppings: a single piece of crispy burdock tempura (gobo-ten) and a large round fish cake (maruten). Enjoy both popular flavors in one bowl.

The gentle, bonito-flavored broth and tender udon noodles make this dish an excellent choice for breakfast as well.

Photograph:nakasete

Located near Tenjin Station, Shin Miura specializes in mizutaki—a classic Fukuoka hot pot—along with a variety of chicken dishes. The restaurant is open for both lunch and dinner.

The inviting space is well-suited for families, and private rooms are also available.

Photograph:tinystone

The signature "Mizutaki" features a rich, milky-white chicken broth that is intentionally left unseasoned, allowing you to fully savor the natural flavors of the chicken.

The bone-in chicken, simmered in the broth, becomes tender and easy to enjoy. It is also recommended to try it with their house-made ponzu sauce for a refreshing finish.

Photograph:先ずはポテサラにゃんこ先生

The signature dish here is the Oyakodon, a rice bowl topped with chicken and egg. Many guests return just to enjoy this specialty for lunch, while others savor it as the perfect way to finish their hot pot meal.

The dish features tender chicken simmered in a flavorful dashi broth, resulting in a silky texture that pairs beautifully with the rice. The accompanying soup is also highly praised for its exceptional taste.

Photograph:shellfish0527

Located just a 2-minute walk from Tenjin Station, Unzen is a popular yatai (street food stall) operating behind the Fukuoka Bank Honten. Open only in the evenings, it is not uncommon to see lines forming outside.

The yatai seats about 11 guests, offering an inviting, homey atmosphere that makes even first-time visitors feel at ease.

Photograph:ウラソフ

Unzen offers a variety of Hakata’s signature dishes. Most guests begin their meal with oden, which is served promptly, and then order several grilled items to enjoy.

One of the most popular choices is the Mentaiko Tamagoyaki—fluffy rolled omelet filled with spicy cod roe. The mild egg pairs perfectly with the kick of mentaiko, while crunchy kikurage mushrooms add a delightful texture.

Photograph:全国のラーメンを食べ歩く

You’ll also find Italian-inspired appetizers such as "Scallops and Asparagus with Butter" and "Chicken Neck and Vegetables Stewed in Tomato Sauce."

For the perfect finish, try the "Yaki Ramen." This pan-fried ramen is seasoned with a gentle tonkotsu broth and served in just the right portion, making it ideal after drinks.

Photograph:shima637

A yatai food stall located about a 4-minute walk from Tenjin Station along Showa-dori. For over 40 years, it has been known and loved as "Tomo-chan."

A showcase filled with fresh ingredients sits on the counter, creating an inviting atmosphere that, for a yatai, is welcoming to women and younger guests.

Photograph:あさしょ

The menu features a wide selection of meat dishes, including "Wagyu Hanging Tender" and "Kuroge Wagyu Kalbi." Rather than skewers, these cuts are served steak-style.

Guests can watch the meat being grilled while enjoying oden and other small dishes. The relaxed atmosphere encourages conversation between staff and fellow diners.

Photograph:nao.20180304

The local specialty here is ramen. Many people choose to end their night with a bowl of ramen at this yatai rather than at a restaurant.

The tonkotsu ramen is known for its distinctive aroma, yet offers a clean, refreshing taste. The thin noodles also have an appealing, firm texture.

Photograph:きゅーぽっく

Daidai is a restaurant specializing in Mizutaki (Japanese chicken hot pot), located about a 3-minute walk from Ohori Park Station along Maizuru Park. The distinctive exterior, featuring wooden latticework, makes it easy to find.

Inside, the restaurant offers a serene and modern Japanese atmosphere with comfortable table seating. The calm setting is perfect for families and provides a welcoming environment for all guests.

Photograph:麻爺豆腐

Daidai takes pride in using only the freshest chicken, prepared each morning. The menu is dedicated exclusively to mizutaki (chicken hot pot), kara-age (fried chicken), and other chicken specialties, allowing guests to fully savor the quality of the poultry.

Enjoy the rich, collagen-packed broth and generously cut pieces of chicken—each bite highlights the natural flavors and umami of the chicken itself.

Photograph:john.amano

Enjoy the tender chicken and the natural sweetness added to the broth by fresh vegetables, as the soup’s flavor evolves throughout the simmering process.

The meal is perfectly finished with a highly praised rice porridge. The gentle yet deeply flavorful broth makes it irresistible—even when you're already full.

Photograph:うどんが主食

Hyogo Dori is a yakitori restaurant specializing in locally sourced jidori chicken from Kumamoto Prefecture, and has been selected as one of Tabelog's "Yakitori WEST Top 100" restaurants.

The interior features a clean, modern Japanese design with both counter and table seating. It is highly regarded as the perfect place to enjoy premium yakitori in a calm and relaxed setting.

Photograph:本音で口コミします！

The standard menu features an Omakase selection of either 6 or 8 skewers, with the option to add additional chicken dishes to suit your preferences. The Omakase course also includes chicken soup and more.

Hyogo Dori uses "Higo no Umaka Akadori" chicken, with its natural flavors enhanced by kettle-cooked salt. The signature "Kashiwa" skewer is known for its crispy skin and juicy meat.

Photograph:Connie0720

The rare "Chochin" skewer is available as an extra order. It features the oviduct with an attached egg yolk, which hangs like a lantern.

Enjoy the unique texture as the plump egg bursts in your mouth. It is said to be rich in flavor and packed with umami.

Photograph:石垣島ジェットスキー

Located in Akasaka, Chuo Ward, near the Akasaka 2-chome bus stop, Motsu Shige is a specialty restaurant dedicated to offal dishes. Open only in the evenings, it offers a hidden, intimate atmosphere.

Guests can choose from counter or traditional tatami seating, creating a relaxed setting perfect for enjoying hot pot together.

Photograph:下戸のアテ好き

Unlike the typical Fukuoka-style motsunabe, Motsu Shige is known for its "Motsu Sukiyaki," where you can enjoy generous portions of offal. Various types of offal are stir-fried in an iron pot and simmered in a sukiyaki-style sauce, creating a unique flavor.

The offal, cooked together with vegetables and tofu, is said to offer a perfect texture and rich umami flavor.

Photograph:トヨンキー

For offal lovers, Motsu Shige offers a variety of specialty dishes such as Nama Senmai (raw omasum) and Su Motsu (vinegared offal).

Pictured is the popular "Motsu Nira Tama," a dish featuring offal and garlic chives with eggs. Similar to a hot pot with simmered eggs, it is lightly grilled for a crisp texture and is highly praised for its addictive flavor.

Photograph:k99852

Kiharu is a seafood izakaya located about a 5-minute walk from Tenjin-Minami Station, specializing in mackerel dishes.

The restaurant offers both counter and table seating in a relaxed setting, making it a comfortable spot to unwind. It is a popular choice among locals as well.

Photograph:ドライブ大好き きよさん

Kiharu uses wild-caught mackerel from the Goto Islands, known for its exceptional freshness. The mackerel is so fresh it can be enjoyed as sashimi, offering a clean taste with rich, savory fat even when served raw.

The Assorted Mackerel Platter features three varieties—"Swimming Saba Sashimi," "Seared Saba Sashimi," and "Goma Saba" (mackerel with sesame sauce)—allowing you to compare and enjoy the unique flavors of each preparation.

Photograph:ドライブ大好き きよさん

Kiharu offers a variety of gourmet dishes featuring mackerel, including "Nama Heshiko"—fresh mackerel pickled in rice bran—and crispy "Saba Croquettes."

The pictured "Grilled Mackerel Potato Salad" combines the rich flavor of savory grilled mackerel with creamy potato salad, creating a uniquely satisfying dish.

Photograph:kmd3588

Located near Park-dori Bridge in Nakasu, Hakata, Ganso Hakata Mentaiju specializes in Hakata's famous mentaiko (spicy cod roe) dishes. The restaurant is easily recognized by its unique, large wooden box-style exterior.

Inside, you'll find a calm, traditional Japanese atmosphere. Open from morning until night, it offers a casual way to enjoy mentaiko cuisine at any time of day.

Photograph:Sayalog

The restaurant’s signature dish, "Mentaiju," features warm rice topped with a layer of nori seaweed and premium mentaiko (spicy cod roe). The mentaiko is wrapped in kombu kelp, giving it an especially rich and savory flavor.

While delicious on its own, the dish is best enjoyed with a special sauce made with kombu kelp, poured over just before eating. You can also choose your preferred level of spiciness for the sauce.

Photograph:ガジルバモス

The "Mentaiko Nikomi Tsukemen" features noodles served with a rich, mentaiko (spicy cod roe) broth. You can adjust the spiciness to your liking by adding the special chili sauce, and finish your meal by pouring in a savory soup to enjoy the remaining broth.

With the "Rice & Noodles Set," you can enjoy both the signature "Mentaiju" (mentaiko rice bowl) and the tsukemen. The "Mentaiko Sui," a clear soup with tofu and mentaiko, is also a popular choice.

Photograph:食べあるくいーん

Located at the foot of Mount Homan in Dazaifu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, SANZO is a specialty restaurant serving local jidori chicken dishes. Housed in a renovated traditional farmhouse, the restaurant offers a secluded, hideaway atmosphere.

Guests can relax in private tatami rooms surrounding a traditional sunken hearth, or opt for counter seating ideal for smaller groups.

Photograph:soka00011

Enjoy locally raised jidori chicken, freshly processed each morning at SANZO’s dedicated poultry farm, then cut into generous pieces and grilled over charcoal. Each bite offers a satisfying texture and a burst of rich flavor.

The limited-quantity horumon (offal) and the signature SANZO Chikuwa—made from a blend of minced chicken and cartilage—are also highly recommended. The aroma of charcoal grilling enhances the taste, making each dish even more delicious.

Photograph:きよP12345

The highlight here is the "Three-variety Sashimi Assortment," made possible by the use of exceptionally fresh chicken. Rare cuts such as breast, heart, and gizzard are served as sashimi.

Unlike grilled preparations, the sashimi offers a tender, springy texture with no unpleasant odor, allowing you to fully appreciate the pure flavor of the chicken.

Photograph:nonnon935

This restaurant offers the famous "Umegae-mochi," a specialty of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. It has also been selected for the Tabelog Wagashi & Japanese Sweets WEST 100 Best Shops.

Established in the Taisho era as an inn for shrine visitors, this historic establishment features a relaxing café space where guests can unwind.

Photograph:harachan1821

"Umegae-mochi" is a traditional sweet inspired by a local legend: when Sugawara no Michizane was exiled to Dazaifu, an elderly woman presented him with his favorite rice cake on a plum branch.

These rice cakes feature a chewy outer layer filled with sweet red bean paste, then grilled on both sides for a crisp finish. At Oshokuji Dokoro Kasano Ya, you can enjoy them at a leisurely pace, served with tea in a relaxing setting.

Photograph:ssmtrack

Baked in a brass mold, each piece features a plum blossom pattern stamped on the surface. The exterior is crisp, while the inside offers a pleasantly chewy texture.

After the initial roasted aroma, a gentle sweetness follows, making it the perfect treat to refresh you after visiting the shrine.

Photograph:dasako

This seafood restaurant is operated by a fresh fish wholesaler. It is located about a 10-minute walk from Kafuri Station in Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture.

The spacious, standalone restaurant also offers parking, making it a convenient stop during a drive. Guests can choose between traditional tatami seating or standard tables for their meal.

Photograph:たまがわたろう

Among the many seafood dishes available, the most popular is the "Gokujo Kaisen Don" (Special Premium Seafood Rice Bowl). This signature bowl features a generous assortment of fresh seafood, topped with raw shrimp and even finished with edible gold leaf.

Each topping is said to be exceptionally delicious and naturally sweet. For those who prefer a lighter option, the "Tokujo Kaisen Don" (Premium Seafood Rice Bowl) is also available, with fewer toppings.

Photograph:ぽこぽこぴーなっつ

Some seafood specialties are available only during peak seasons. At times, the menu features luxurious items such as oysters and Ise lobster.

Pictured is "Ika Ikizukuri" (live squid sashimi), known for its firm texture and natural sweetness. The tentacles can be enjoyed as tempura or grilled.

Photograph:fumi.ネコ

Located in Funakoshi Fishing Port in Itoshima City, Fukuoka, Hattori Ya is one of the well-known "kakigoya" (oyster huts) lining the waterfront. The large tent-like structure with its distinctive pink roof makes it easy to spot.

Open only during oyster season, from autumn to spring, this is the perfect place to enjoy fresh oysters in a casual setting.

Photograph:hero0621

Oysters are served in baskets and can be ordered by the basket. There are also baskets featuring only the largest oysters.

The staff will carefully guide you on the best way to grill them. The oysters are so sweet and flavorful, you'll want to enjoy more than just one.

Photograph:jr6767

In addition to oysters, you can also enjoy grilled scallops, shrimp, and turban shell. The menu also features a variety of other seafood dishes, including deep-fried specialties.

The restaurant offers thoughtful services such as lending jackets to prevent the aroma of grilling from clinging to your clothes, and allowing guests to bring their own drinks free of charge.

Photograph:食べノグ

This oyster hut operates from autumn through spring and is located near Fukuyoshi Fishing Port, about a 10-minute walk from Fukuyoshi Station.

The spacious venue, resembling a large greenhouse, can accommodate around 160 guests. You are welcome to bring your own drinks and rice, making it easy to enjoy fresh oysters in a relaxed setting.

Photograph:hello ecorumi

Oysters are sold by the kilogram and can be grilled right at your table. The size of the oysters varies depending on the season and year, but each one becomes plump and juicy when grilled.

Many regular customers bring their own favorite seasonings to enjoy the oysters just the way they like.

Photograph:Waka4022

Enjoy fresh seafood such as live kuruma shrimp and live scallops, grilled right at your table. The menu also features dried fish, shishamo smelt, sausages, and corn on the cob.

Conveniently located within walking distance from the nearest station, It's easy to visit even after enjoying some drinks.

Photograph:akii

Located within Kumade Market in Kitakyushu, about a 7-minute walk from Kurosaki Station, Uotora is an izakaya specializing in fresh seafood dishes. The restaurant has been selected as one of Tabelog's Top 100 Izakaya in Japan.

The warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with the cheerful staff, makes for a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience.

Photograph:ブッチさ～ん

The assorted sashimi platter is the first thing most guests order at Uotora. The selection varies with the season, allowing you to enjoy a range of the freshest fish available.

Each piece is full of flavor, and the ability to sample several varieties in one order is a highlight.

Photograph:S.Y Nのグルメ日記

In addition to fresh seafood, the menu features delicious and reasonably priced dishes such as chawanmushi (savory egg custard) and omusubi (rice balls).

One of the signature items is the tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet) rolled with unagi (eel), which is especially popular. Thick slices of eel are wrapped in fluffy egg, making for a satisfying and flavorful bite.

Photograph:花嫁修業

Goju Ban is a long-standing restaurant with over 50 years of history, renowned for its signature "Tetsunabe Gyoza"—pan-fried dumplings served in a sizzling iron skillet. Conveniently located about a 5-minute walk from Nishitetsu Kurume Station, it has also been selected as one of Tabelog's Top 100 Gyoza Restaurants.

The restaurant retains a nostalgic Showa-era atmosphere and offers only L-shaped counter seating. It's a place that draws many loyal locals who return time and again.

Photograph:す〜さん！

Goju Ban is known for its signature gyoza, served as ten bite-sized dumplings arranged on a cast-iron skillet. Unlike traditional gyoza, the dumplings are steamed, leaving the wrappers soft and tender.

Once served, you can flip the gyoza over to sear them to your preferred level of crispiness on the hot skillet. They pair exceptionally well with the house garlic soy sauce.

Photograph:B-SHOCK

The menu is straightforward, offering only two main options: pan-fried gyoza or boiled gyoza. You can pair them with rice or an alcoholic beverage of your choice.

The boiled gyoza are known for their delicate, easy-to-enjoy flavor. They are also delicious when enjoyed with vinegar or the restaurant's special chili seasoning.

Photograph:虎太郎がゆく

Tomikiyo is a specialty hot pot restaurant located in Noke, Sawara Ward, Fukuoka City, just a five-minute walk from Noke Station. Open from lunchtime, it’s a great spot to enjoy drinks and motsu cuisine from early in the day.

The clean and welcoming interior creates a relaxed, homey atmosphere where you can savor their signature motsu nabe hot pot at your leisure.

Photograph:福男カールおじさん

The specialty here is "Wagyu Motsu Nabe," a hot pot inspired by sukiyaki, featuring fresh Wagyu offal prepared the same morning.

The offal is so fresh that it only needs a light touch of heat before it's ready to enjoy. Each cut offers a unique texture and a subtle sweetness, making for an exceptionally delicious experience.

Photograph:レモンサワーはチェイサーです。

Here, the specialty is offal simmered in a rich, soy-based broth and enjoyed by dipping it in beaten egg. Despite its bold flavor, you’ll find yourself wanting more with every bite.

To finish, champon noodles are added to the pot, soaking up the savory broth enriched by the offal. The result is a deeply flavorful soup and noodles that are equally delicious.