Fukuoka is renowned as both a tourist hotspot and a paradise for food lovers. The area boasts numerous top-tier restaurants where you can indulge in the full splendor of wagyu beef. This article introduces three highly recommended spots. Each of these establishments offers an exceptional experience through their cuisine, ambiance, and service. Use this guide to make your time in Fukuoka even more memorable.
Wagyu is one of Japan’s most celebrated culinary treasures, beloved worldwide for its exquisite marbling and rich, buttery flavor. Kyushu is known as a major wagyu-producing region, and Fukuoka, in particular, is home to many restaurants that serve high-quality kuroge wagyu (Japanese Black) at accessible prices. The city’s excellent transportation links make it easy to stop by these establishments during sightseeing or business.
Yakiniku Izakaya Gyu-an
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Located in Kokura Kita-ku, Kitakyushu City, “Yakiniku Izakaya Gyu-an” reopened in the summer of 2024, offering an upgraded dining experience. The seasoned owner selects only the finest wagyu, and the menu is as diverse as it is delightful, blending yakiniku dishes with an array of izakaya-style fare.
The standout dish here is “Yaki-suki” — thinly sliced wagyu marinated in a house-made sauce, cooked to your preferred doneness. Other favorites include fresh beef sushi, grilled yam on a hot plate, and braised pork trotters, all of which have garnered loyal fans.
With its tranquil Japanese-style interior, the restaurant caters to all occasions, from solo diners at the counter to private parties of up to 20 guests. Conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from both Heiwa-dori and Tanga stations on the Monorail, Gyu-an is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy wagyu casually. Parking is also available nearby.
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Yakiniku Nobufuku
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In the Haruyoshi district of Fukuoka City, “Yakiniku Nobufuku” offers the chance to savor A4-grade kuroge wagyu from Kyushu at an unbeatable value. An 8-minute walk from Tenjin Station or 4 minutes from Tenjin Minami Station, this yakiniku izakaya stays open until 4 AM, making it a great spot for late-night bites.
The restaurant’s signature dish is “Negi Tsutsumi Tan” — thick slices of beef tongue wrapped around a generous helping of green onions marinated in a special sauce. Other must-tries include the giant zabuton steak and a tail ramen prepared over three days. With its focus on quality and variety, Nobufuku’s menu has something for everyone.
The casual, laid-back atmosphere features counter seating and cozy sofas, making it a great option for dates, group outings, or casual solo dining. The 120-minute all-you-can-drink course is also ideal for parties with friends or coworkers, adding to its versatility.
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Shunsai Sasa
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Located in the heart of Nakasu, Fukuoka’s bustling entertainment district, “Shunsai Sasa” is an upscale izakaya that exudes sophistication. With over 15 years of culinary experience, the chef crafts exquisite kaiseki dishes using fresh seafood and premium wagyu sourced from Kyushu. It’s a top choice for business dinners or special occasions.
The menu highlights include dishes featuring Saga beef and Miyazaki beef, with the omakase kaiseki course being particularly popular. The serene ambiance, enhanced by jazz music and warm lighting, provides the perfect setting for enjoying carefully prepared meals paired with premium sake.
Just a 5-minute walk from Nakasu-Kawabata Station, the restaurant is easily accessible yet tucked away enough to feel like a hidden gem. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking an elegant dining experience in Fukuoka’s lively nightlife district.
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Conclusion
If you’re in Fukuoka and looking to enjoy wagyu, these three establishments — Yakiniku Izakaya Gyu-an, Yakiniku Nobufuku, and Shunsai Sasa — are not to be missed. Each offers a unique dining experience that showcases the best of Japan’s wagyu beef, combined with outstanding service and atmosphere.
Whether you’re visiting on vacation or marking a special occasion, indulging in high-quality wagyu at these restaurants will leave you with unforgettable memories. Make your time in Fukuoka extraordinary by exploring these culinary gems!
