20 Fukuoka Gourmet Recommendations by Staff from Fukuoka
October 03, 2025
Fukuoka, the vibrant heart of Kyushu, is a true food capital. From rich ramen and spicy mentaiko to hearty motsunabe, the city offers flavors that food lovers around the world seek.
Fukuoka’s cuisine shines thanks to its natural bounty — fresh seafood from the Genkai and Ariake Seas — and its role as a cultural crossroads with Asia. Its street food stalls, or yatai, keep casual dining culture alive.
To help you explore this rich food scene, here are 20 carefully selected restaurants, recommended by Fukuoka locals—each offering an authentic and memorable dining experience.
OMAKASE Sushi
Kapposushi Hanaaza / 割烹鮨 華あざ
Sushi Kappou Hanaemaki / 鮨 割烹 花絵巻
Casual Kappou Yumikino / casual割烹 弓木野
Sushi Kuma / 鮨 くま
Sushi Shinagawa / 鮨 品川
Hakata Specialties
Hakata Mizutaki Chidori / 博多水炊き ちどり
Motsunabe Yamasyou Hakata-honten / もつ鍋 やましょう 博多本店
Tori to Sumibi Toribo / 鶏と炭火 とり坊
Hakata Ramai Motsunabe / 博多 らまい もつ鍋
Shochu Izakaya Otsu Daimyo / 焼酎居酒屋 乙 大名
Yakiniku & Wagyu
Hakataen / 博多苑
Yokaniku Yuen / よか肉 遊園
Hakata Yakiniku Yasohachi / 博多 焼肉 八十八
Genkayakiniku Gen Tenyamachi / 原価焼肉 げん 店屋町本店
Sakuraya Bariking Akasaka / 桜屋 馬力キング 赤坂
Affordable Izakaya
Shokudou Light / 食堂Light
Umisato Syokudo&Sakaba / うみさと食堂&酒場
Bungo Takiniku to Obanzai Isshou / 豊後炊き肉とお晩菜いっしょう
Tenjin Nikusakaba Yoisho！ / 天神肉酒場 よいしょ！
Torikawa Mitsumasu Tenjin / とりかわ みつます 天神
OMAKASE Sushi
Fukuoka is famous for its seafood, so trying an OMAKASE meal is a must while you're in Fukuoka.
1. Kapposushi Hanaaza / 割烹鮨 華あざ
Fukuoka, Akasaka ☆4.6 (Google Maps)
Enjoy Edo-Style Sushi in the OMAKASE Style with Skilled Craftsmanship
Sushi served across the counter highlights seasonal gems like sea urchin and medium fatty tuna, crafted with delicate techniques that promise a truly special dining experience in Fukuoka. Each bite brings the freshness of the sea and the chef's artistry to your palate.
Price: ¥10,000~(Moderately Price)
Type: Authentic yet affordable
Business Hours: 11:30~15:00, 17:00~22:00
Regular Holiday: Irregular holidays
Feather: Child-Friendly, Great value, JapanFoodGuide Exclusive Course
OMAKASE Focused on Ingredients to Lavishly Enjoy Red Sea Urchin and Bluefin Tuna
Indulge in exquisite sushi featuring high-grade sea urchin from Hokkaido and Karatsu, alongside wild-caught bluefin tuna, hand-formed by master chefs. The lightly vinegared red sushi rice perfectly enhances umami, delivering a culinary delight unique to this place.
Price: ¥8,800~(Moderately Price)
Type: Authentic yet affordable
Business Hours: 11:30~14:00, 17:30~22:00
Regular Holiday: Sunday
Feather: English menu, Great value, JapanFoodGuide Exclusive Course
A Kyoto-Trained Kappou to Enjoy Casually, a Great Spot for Sake Lovers
At Casual Kappou Yumikino, savor seasonal dishes inspired by kaiseki traditions without any stiffness. Their extensive selection of sake, shochu, and whiskey pairs perfectly with each dish, promising a harmonious and enjoyable meal for those who appreciate fine Japanese drinks.
OMAKASE Sushi Highlighting the Careful Craftsmanship to Savor Kyushu’s Seasonal Flavors
Savor each piece of expertly hand-formed sushi, crafted from fresh seafood and vegetables sourced from Kyushu. Paired with local Kyushu sake, this serene counter dining experience promises cherished memories and the authentic essence of Fukuoka’s cuisine.
Carefully Hand-Formed Pieces and Heartwarming Hospitality Make the OMAKASE Enticing
The chef’s sensitivity shines through delicate sushi creations that showcase Kyushu’s freshest seasonal seafood. In a tranquil setting, this dining experience deepens your travel memories with exceptional flavors and genuine hospitality.
Don't miss the chance to try Hakata's local specialties. From rich motsunabe hot pot to tender mizutaki chicken stew, these beloved dishes offer a true taste of Fukuoka.
1. Hakata Mizutaki Chidori / 博多水炊き ちどり
Fukuoka, Hakozaki ☆4.8 (Google Maps)
Experience Hakata Tradition with Authentic Mizutaki Chicken Hot Pot Rich in Flavor
Discover the comforting warmth of mizutaki, a traditional Hakata chicken hot pot where tender local chicken and tsukune meatballs slow-cook in a rich, cloudy broth simmered from fresh chicken bones. This gentle yet deeply flavorful dish has been loved by locals for generations and offers a truly authentic taste of Hakata’s culinary heritage.
A Famous Hakata Motsunabe Restaurant with the Flavor of Black Wagyu
Experience the rich tradition of motsunabe, a hot pot specialty simmered in a secret, savory broth that perfectly balances plump, tender offal with the fresh umami of Kyushu’s finest vegetables. For over 30 years, locals have cherished this beloved dish, enjoyed best within the warm and inviting atmosphere of Hakata’s vibrant food scene. This casual gem will immerse you in authentic flavors that tell a story of regional pride and culinary craftsmanship.
An Izakaya to Savor Charcoal-Grilled Satsuma Jidori Chicken with Irresistible Aroma
Indulge your senses with charcoal-grilled Satsuma Chiran chicken, prized for its juicy tenderness and smoky aroma, skillfully prepared over glowing coals. Fresh tataki dishes amplify the flavor experience, perfectly complemented by a glass of smooth shochu. This inviting izakaya offers a true taste of Kyushu’s rich culinary tradition in a casual setting, ideal for solo diners, families, or friends seeking an authentic local night out.
A Popular Spot to Savor the Rich Flavors of Kyushu, Featuring Black Wagyu Motsunabe
Delight in the exquisite taste of Kyushu’s Black Wagyu in this beloved motsunabe restaurant, where you can choose from a rich variety of broths—salt, miso, soy sauce, and more—to perfectly suit your palate. Complement your meal with fresh squid sashimi from nearby Yobuko and horse sashimi sourced from Kumamoto, ensuring a meal that fully celebrates Kyushu’s diverse and fresh local ingredients. This casual yet vibrant spot promises a memorable culinary journey for all visitors.
Price: ¥4,500~(Affordable)
Type: Casual
Business Hours: 16:00~23:00
Regular Holiday: Irregular holidays
Feather: Child-Friendly, English menu, Chinese (traditional) menu, Chinese (simplified) menu, Korean menu, Great value
A Must-Visit Shochu Lover’s Haven Featuring Over 130 Varieties and Kyushu Local Cuisine
Discover the ultimate pairing of flavors at this izakaya offering an impressive selection of over 130 types of shochu. Savor regional specialties such as Hakata’s signature sesame mackerel, succulent charcoal-grilled Kagoshima jidori chicken, and fresh horse sashimi flown in from Kumamoto. Whether you’re a shochu novice or connoisseur, this welcoming venue promises a lively, authentic Fukuoka evening filled with delicious food and drink in perfect harmony.
Fukuoka is also known for premium meats like Hakata wagyu, perfect for yakiniku. Horse meat (basashi) is another local specialty enjoyed for its unique flavor.
1. Hakataen / 博多苑
Fukuoka, Tenjin-minami ☆4.2 (Google Maps)
Feast on All-You-Can-Eat Sukiyaki with Premium Kyushu Black Wagyu
Treat yourself to an unforgettable sukiyaki experience featuring top-grade A4 and A5 Kyushu Black Wagyu, cooked to perfection and served all-you-can-eat style. The course also highlights mentaiko and delicate meat sushi, making it a satisfying choice for meat lovers and families alike, all set in a friendly, casual environment.
Price: ¥8,000~(Affordable)
Type: Casual
Business Hours: 16:00~23:00
Regular Holiday: Irregular holidays
Feather: Child-Friendly, English menu, Korean menu, All-you-can-eat, JapanFoodGuide Exclusive Course
Yakiniku Featuring Rare Kyushu Black Wagyu Cuts Crafted with Expert Grilling
Savor rare and premium cuts like special harami and tomosankaku, grilled to juicy perfection with masterful technique. Settle into a calm, intimate atmosphere while indulging in authentic yakiniku that highlights the depth and richness of Kyushu Black Wagyu. This spot promises an unforgettable meal for grill aficionados and first-timers alike.
Luxury Yakiniku Featuring Thick-Cut Beef Tongue and Black Wagyu Served with Donabe Rice
Delight in tender, thick-cut beef tongue, a beloved specialty, alongside premium Kyushu Black Wagyu grilled to perfection. Your meal is elevated by freshly steamed donabe rice, served piping hot in a traditional clay pot, enhancing the flavors of every bite. This upscale yet approachable yakiniku spot ensures a comforting and authentic Japanese dining experience in the heart of Hakata.
A Yakiniku Restaurant Where You Can Savor Brand Wagyu Beef from All Over Japan at Amazingly Reasonable Prices
Indulge in high-quality black wagyu, meticulously selected from the finest branded cattle across Japan, all offered at prices close to wholesale. This revolutionary yakiniku spot lets you casually experience Japan’s luxurious meat culture without breaking the bank. The tender, marbled beef melts in your mouth, promising an unforgettable dining adventure in the heart of Fukuoka.
Delight in Fresh Horse Meat Dishes Directly Sourced from Kumamoto in Diverse Styles
Discover over 20 tantalizing horse meat dishes including sashimi, lightly seared cuts, yakiniku, savory sukiyaki, and delicate sushi. Celebrated for its high-protein, low-calorie goodness, horse meat is a favorite among health-conscious food lovers. This unique dining experience brings the best of Kumamoto’s fresh flavors straight to your table in Fukuoka.
Izakayas are perfect for those looking for a more casual and relaxed dining experience. They offer a wide variety of local dishes and drinks in a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.
1. Shokudou Light / 食堂Light
Fukuoka, Akasaka ☆4.7 (Google Maps)
A Stylish, Casual Hidden Izakaya Offering Seasonal Flavors from Kyushu
Step into this cozy, hidden gem where you can savor creative small plates and appetizers crafted from fresh Kyushu ingredients. Complement your meal with their homemade craft sours and a selection of natural wines. Open from midday, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a leisurely drink during your Fukuoka sightseeing adventure.
Price: ¥2,000~(Affordable)
Type: Casual
Business Hours: 13:00~22:00
Regular Holiday: Wednesday
Feather: English menu, Solo friendly, Great value, Highly Rated
A Casual Tavern Serving Kyushu’s Fresh Seafood and Local Flavors All Day Long
During the day, enjoy seafood-focused set meals, and by night, delight in specialties like sesame mackerel and yellowtail shabu-shabu, directly sourced from Nagasaki and Hirado. Complement your meal with hearty clay pot rice in a lively local atmosphere—perfect for a restful break during your explorations.
Price: ¥5,500~(Affordable)
Type: Casual
Business Hours: 8:00~10:30, 11:30~14:00, 17:30~23:00
3. Bungo Takiniku to Obanzai Isshou / 豊後炊き肉とお晩菜いっしょう
Fukuoka, Akasaka ☆4.7 (Google Maps)
A Relaxing Izakaya Serving Bungo-style Takiniku with a Soothing Broth Aroma and Seasonal Obanzai
Experience the warm embrace of Bungo-style takiniku, where tender meat simmers slowly in a gently sweet broth, then dipped in velvety egg yolk. Paired with seasonal small bowls and fresh sashimi, these authentic Japanese side dishes satisfy both your appetite and soul, inviting you to unwind in a welcoming atmosphere.
A Casual Tavern to Hearty Enjoy Meat Delicacies from Sushi to Beef Tongue
Relish popular meat sushi and assorted plates featuring domestic beef loin, rare cuts, and horse meat. Pair your meal with the signature "famous sour," a refreshing drink that grows in size, ensuring lively and memorable moments in Fukuoka’s vibrant Tenjin district.
Master the Craftsmanship of Torikawa, Fukuoka’s Specialty "Gurukawa" with Deep Flavor
Experience the iconic torikawa skewer "gurukawa," grilled to a perfect crisp after carefully removing excess fat over six days, delivering an exquisite balance of aroma and umami. Enjoy a variety of chicken delights such as their famous raw tsukune and tataki, showcasing the finest in Fukuoka’s yakitori culture.
Price: ¥5,500~(Affordable)
Type: Casual
Business Hours: 17:00~24:00
Regular Holiday: Irregular holidays
Feather: Child-Friendly, Children's menu, Great value
Fukuoka boasts abundant natural blessings from both sea and mountains, making it a true "food treasure trove" where local culinary traditions meet innovative flavors. Through these 20 carefully curated restaurants, handpicked by Fukuoka-born experts, we’ve showcased the diverse appeal of Fukuoka’s gourmet scene—from the finesse of OMAKASE sushi to comforting local dishes, premium regional yakiniku, and lively izakayas.
OMAKASE Sushi: Authentic sushi experiences where skilled chefs artfully prepare fresh seafood caught from Kyushu's pristine seas.
Hakata Specialty Gourmet: Savor traditional flavors unique to Fukuoka such as motsunabe and mizutaki, served with genuine hospitality.
Yakiniku & Sukiyaki: Indulge in high-quality Kyushu-raised meats, including tender wagyu and delicately prepared horse meat dishes.
Izakaya Style: Relax at casual spots perfect for a quick drink or casual meal, immersing in local atmosphere and flavors.
Whether you stop by during sightseeing or plan a dedicated food-focused trip, each place embodies authentic "Fukuoka-ness" that will captivate your heart and palate. Don’t miss the chance to experience genuine local gourmet delights that only Fukuoka can offer—your unforgettable culinary journey awaits on-site!
