Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Fukuoka, Fukuoka, Japan
1. Hakata Ramen (Yushijo)
A hearty bowl of rich pork broth, chewy noodles, and sliced pork. Yushijo is a famous ramen shop with a history dating back to 1948.
- Authenticity: Long-standing establishment that serves traditional Hakata Ramen
- Quality Ingredients: Uses high-quality, locally sourced ingredients
- Quick Service: Known for speedy service, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal
2. Mentaiko Rice Ball (Ichiran)
A rice ball coated in sesame seeds, filled with spicy pollock roe. Ichiran is a popular chain known for its unique vending-machine style ordering system.
- Unusual Combo: Combines the savory flavors of spicy pollock roe with the simplicity of rice
- Convenient Ordering: Efficient ordering system allows for quick, hassle-free service
- Chain Popularity: Part of a popular chain with multiple locations in Fukuoka
3. Jibachi-yaki (Yatai Street)
Grilled seafood and vegetables cooked on a shared open grill in a lively street food atmosphere. Yatai Street offers a variety of local dishes.
- Social Experience: Shared communal dining experience creates a unique atmosphere
- Fresh Ingredients: Seafood is fresh and cooked to order
- Variety of Options: Multiple food stalls offer a variety of dishes, allowing for customization
4. Motsunabe (Yabusoba)
A hot pot dish made with beef offal and vegetables in a rich miso broth. Yabusoba is known for its generous portions.
- Hearty Meal: Filling dish perfect for cold weather or large appetites
- Authentic Experience: Serves traditional Fukuoka comfort food
- Generous Portions: Offers large servings to satisfy even the hungriest travelers
5. Tenjin Yaki (Yakitori-ya Tenka)
Grilled skewered chicken parts, cooked over an open flame. Yakitori-ya Tenka is a popular yakitori restaurant in Tenjin.
- Authentic Japanese Cuisine: Serves traditional Japanese street food
- Variety of Options: Offers a wide variety of chicken parts and flavors
- Warm Atmosphere: Cozy, inviting atmosphere creates a memorable dining experience
6. Karashie (Ichikawa-an)
A bowl of shelled prawns served in a spicy sesame sauce. Ichikawa-an is a long-standing restaurant that specializes in Karashi-men dishes.
- Spiciness Level: Adjustable spiciness levels to cater to different tastes
- Authenticity: Serves traditional Fukuoka dish with a long history
- Quality Ingredients: Uses fresh, high-quality prawns
7. Yakiimochi (Saka no Yakata)
Grilled mochi filled with red bean paste. Saka no Yakata is a popular shop in Daimyo-dori Street.
- Traditional Treat: Serves a traditional Japanese dessert
- Convenient Location: Located in a popular shopping street, perfect for snacking on the go
- Unique Flavors: Offers various flavors of mochi and fillings
8. Tebasami (Kushida Shokudo)
Grilled chicken wings marinated in a secret sauce. Kushida Shokudo is a popular restaurant near the Kushida Shrine.
- Secret Recipe: Uses a secret recipe for its marinade
- Authentic Experience: Serves traditional Fukuoka street food
- Celebratory Atmosphere: Ideal for celebrating events due to its proximity to the Kushida Shrine
9. Taraba-no-Kamaage (Sukiyabashi Jiro)
Steamed taraba crab served in its own broth. Sukiyabashi Jiro is a high-end kaiseki restaurant.
- Luxury Dining: Offers a luxurious dining experience
- Freshness Guaranteed: Uses fresh, top-quality ingredients, especially seafood
- Reservation Required: Advance reservations are required due to its popularity and reputation
10. Mizutaki (Hakata Mizutaki Honpo)
Chicken simmered in a soy sauce-based broth with vegetables. Hakata Mizutaki Honpo is a popular restaurant known for this dish.
- Hearty Comfort Food: Serves a comforting, warming dish perfect for cold weather
- Authentic Experience: Serves traditional Fukuoka dish with a long history
- Generous Portions: Offers large servings to satisfy even the hungriest travelers
11. Yakiniku (Hakata Gion Yakiniku)
Grilled meat and vegetables on a shared table grill. Hakata Gion Yakiniku is a popular yakiniku restaurant.
- Social Experience: Shared communal dining experience creates a unique atmosphere
- Quality Ingredients: Uses high-quality, locally sourced meats and vegetables
- Customizable Experience: Allows for customization of the dishes grilled on the table
12. Mentaiko Ice Cream (Ice House)
Spicy pollock roe flavored ice cream. Ice House is a popular ice cream shop in Tenjin.
- Unique Flavor: Offers an unusual, spicy twist on a classic dessert
- Convenient Location: Located in a popular shopping district, perfect for snacking on the go
- Cool Down After Spicy Meals: Ideal for cooling down after eating spicy local dishes
13. Karintou (Shirakawa Karintou Kinkemasu)
Deep-fried dough filled with red bean paste. Shirakawa Karintou Kinkemasu is a popular shop in the historic Shirakawa area.
- Traditional Treat: Serves a traditional Japanese dessert
- Convenient Location: Located in the historic Shirakawa area, perfect for exploring local attractions
- Unique Shape: Known for its unique, fish-shaped design
14. Hakata Teishoku (Tei Restaurant)
A set meal consisting of rice, miso soup, pickles, and a main dish. Tei Restaurant is a popular chain with a focus on Hakata cuisine.
- Authentic Experience: Serves traditional Fukuoka dishes in a set meal format
- Convenient Meal Option: Offers a quick, affordable meal option for travelers
- Wide Availability: Has multiple locations throughout Fukuoka, making it easy to find
15. Mochi Yaki (Miyabi Mochi)
Grilled mochi coated in sesame seeds. Miyabi Mochi is a popular shop in the Tenjin area.
- Traditional Treat: Serves a traditional Japanese dessert
- Convenient Location: Located in a popular shopping district, perfect for snacking on the go
- Quick Snack Option: Ideal for a quick, satisfying treat between meals