Top 4 Places to Eat in Kawagoe

Written by Alexander Kopp, Sandra Frank, Sophie King
19/08/2025
Low angle view of a historic bell tower in Kawagoe, Japan, against a clear blue sky.
Ako Cui, Pexels

Kawagoe's culinary scene offers a delightful journey through traditional Japanese flavors, with a notable emphasis on exquisite unagi and creative sweet potato delights that cater to both discerning food enthusiasts and casual explorers.

1. Ichinoya

Cuisine: Unagi (Eel)

Stepping into Ichinoya, one is immediately enveloped by a sense of history, reflecting its centuries-old tradition of serving exceptional unagi. The grilled eel, prepared in the Tokyo style, offers a tender, flaky texture with a delicate smokiness, perfectly balanced by a savory, not-too-sweet sauce. It is a quintessential Kawagoe experience for those seeking the finest local specialty. While a wait is often part of the experience, especially on weekends, the dedication to quality makes it worthwhile.

Price: ¥4,000 - ¥8,000 (~$25 - $55 USD) per person

Getting There: Ichinoya has a main branch near Koedo, walkable from the main historical street, and another at Kawagoe Station's Atre mall.

2. Potato Sweets Shimizu Koedokawagoshi

Cuisine: Sweet Potato Desserts

This charming dessert shop is a sweet haven, showcasing Kawagoe's beloved sweet potatoes in innovative ways. The baked sweet potato brulee, a standout offering, features a rich, creamy sweet potato base topped with a crisp, caramelized sugar crust, often served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful hot-and-cold contrast. It is a perfect stop for a unique local treat after exploring the town.

Price: Approx. ¥770 (~$5 USD) for a sweet potato brulee

Getting There: Located approximately a 6-minute walk from Hon-Kawagoe Station, making it easily accessible for a sweet indulgence.

3. Chariya

Cuisine: Traditional Japanese Donburi

Chariya offers a comforting and authentic Japanese dining experience, specializing in donburi rice bowls within a warm, inviting atmosphere. Their signature Kawagoe donburi, topped with a flavorful array of fresh and savory ingredients, presents a local twist on this classic dish. The oyakodon, with its tender chicken and perfectly simmered egg over rice, is another highly recommended choice, showcasing the chef's precision in traditional preparation.

Price: ¥1,000 - ¥2,000 (~$7 - $15 USD) per person

Getting There: Situated near Kawagoe Station, it is a convenient stop for a satisfying meal.

4. Kawagoe Kousushi

Cuisine: Sushi and Kaiseki

Founded in 1878, Kawagoe Kousushi provides an elegant dining experience within a historic setting that includes a Japanese garden. Guests can savor authentic Edomae sushi at the counter, witnessing the chefs' artistry, or opt for a traditional kaiseki course in a private tatami room. The restaurant prides itself on seasonal ingredients and its flexibility in accommodating dietary needs, including vegan and Muslim-friendly options. It offers a refined taste of Japanese culinary heritage.

Price: Lunch: ¥3,000 (~$20 USD); Dinner: ¥9,000 (~$60 USD) per person

Getting There: The restaurant is about a 15-minute walk from Hon-Kawagoe Station, or a short 5-minute drive from Kawagoeshi Station.

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