Top 5 Places to Eat in Nagoya

Written by Alexander Kopp, Sandra Frank, Sophie King
21/08/2025
Beautiful capture of Nagoya Castle surrounded by trees under a blue sky.
Hoi Wai, Pexels

Nagoya's culinary scene is a vibrant blend of comforting and unique dishes, prominently featuring rich miso flavors.

1. Atsuta Horaiken

Cuisine: Hitsumabushi (Grilled Eel)

Stepping into Atsuta Horaiken, one immediately feels immersed in tradition. This esteemed establishment, credited by many as the originator of Hitsumabushi, serves perfectly grilled eel – crispy on the outside, tender within – over rice, accompanied by a 140-year-old secret sauce. The experience encourages a unique four-way eating ritual: savoring the eel plain, then with condiments, next as a dashi broth chazuke, and finally in your preferred style. Expect a traditional Japanese atmosphere, making for a memorable dining occasion.

Price: Approximately 3,990 JPY per person.

Getting There: The main restaurant is a 3-minute walk from Tenmacho Station (Subway Meijo Line) Exit 4. A branch is also conveniently located in the Matsuzakaya Department Store in Sakae.

2. Misokatsu Yabaton

Cuisine: Misokatsu (Pork Cutlet with Miso Sauce)

Misokatsu Yabaton offers the quintessential Nagoya Miso Katsu, a must-try dish. The deep-fried pork cutlet is remarkably crispy, yet juicy, generously slathered with a rich, sweet, and savory red miso sauce. Unlike standard tonkatsu, this unique miso twist elevates the flavor profile. It is a filling and robust meal, often served with shredded cabbage and rice.

Price: Waraji Tonkatsu set around 1,800 - 2,000 JPY per person.

Getting There: The Yabacho Honten (main store) is in Osu, Naka Ward. There is also a branch conveniently located inside Meitetsu Department Store near Nagoya Station.

3. Sekai No Yamachan

Cuisine: Tebasaki (Nagoya-style Fried Chicken Wings)

At Sekai No Yamachan, the Tebasaki are a revelation – deep-fried chicken wings prepared without batter, resulting in an incredibly crispy skin and tender meat. They are seasoned with a distinct, peppery spice blend and often sprinkled with sesame seeds, making them highly addictive. The atmosphere is casual and lively, perfectly suited for enjoying these flavorful wings with a cold beer.

Price: Approximately 550 JPY for 5 wings.

Getting There: Multiple branches are available throughout Nagoya, including locations near Nagoya Station and in the Sakae district, making them easily accessible.

4. Miya Kishimen

Cuisine: Kishimen (Flat Wheat Noodles)

Miya Kishimen provides a taste of Nagoya's simpler, comforting cuisine. The kishimen noodles are distinctly broad and flat, served either hot in a light fish-based soup or chilled with a dipping sauce. This dish offers a delightful texture and a mild, soothing flavor, making it a perfect choice for a light yet satisfying meal.

Price: Approximately 600 - 1,000 JPY per person.

Getting There: While there are multiple locations, the branch on the grounds of Atsuta Jingu Shrine offers a particularly scenic and traditional dining experience.

5. Misen

Cuisine: Taiwan Ramen, Tebasaki

Misen is the place to experience Taiwan Ramen, a spicy noodle soup that, despite its name, originated right here in Nagoya. The broth is chicken-based, rich with garlic and peppers, and topped with minced meat and vegetables. For those who enjoy heat, this dish offers a satisfying kick. Misen also serves a spicier, tender version of Nagoya's famed Tebasaki chicken wings, which perfectly complement the ramen.

Price: Taiwan Ramen typically around 700 JPY; Tebasaki around 550 JPY for 5 pieces.

Getting There: The main shop is at Imaike Station, with other convenient branches located near Nagoya Station and in the Yaba area, between Osu and Sakae.

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