5 Recommended Shops in Areas Currently Gaining Attention from Foreigners｜Kyushu Discover Oishii Japan -SAVOR JAPAN -Japanese Restaurant Guide-

Update-date: Jun 10 2024

Author: SAVOR JAPAN

5 Recommended Shops in Areas Currently Gaining Attention from Foreigners｜Kyushu

As the world overcomes the COVID-19 pandemic and gradually returns to life as it was before, we have picked out some recommended shops in Fukuoka and Kumamoto in the Kyushu area, which have been attracting attention from overseas. Kyushu has even been selected as one of the 'Top 10 Places to Visit in 2024' by a famous international magazine. Let's enjoy the delicious local cuisine in this must-see Kyushu area.

See full listings of restaurants found in and around Fukuoka and Kumamoto.

1. Kumamoto [Shunsai Shuraku Kokoro]

Cheers with authentic Japanese cuisine using plenty of seasonal flavors and sake

A 5-minute walk from Shiyakusho-mae Station and close to Kumamoto Castle, [Shunsai Shuraku Kokoro] offers a unique dining experience. Although it is an izakaya (Japanese tavern), the authentic Japanese cuisine made with seasonal ingredients rivals that of a high-end Kappo restaurant. You can enjoy local Kumamoto specialties such as horse sashimi and tiger pufferfish sashimi, which are raised in mineral-rich seas, as well as seasonal dishes that showcase the flavors of each time of year.

5 Recommended Shops in Areas Currently Attracting Foreign Attention｜kyushu

Although the shop is located in a tourist area, once you step inside, you are greeted by a calm space filled with the warmth of wood. In addition to counter seats that are easy to use for solo customers, there are also table seats, semi-private rooms, and fully private rooms available. You can use it flexibly in various situations along with a higher-grade menu and drinks.

Shunsai Shuraku Kokoro

Open: [Weekday,Saturday,Holidays,Day Before Holidays] 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (last order 10:30 pm)
Closed: Sunday
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY / [Lunch] 5,000 JPY
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2.Kumamoto [GAMU]

A hidden izakaya (Japanese tavern) boasting an all-you-can-drink menu with 400 varieties

Located a 3-minute walk from Kumamoto Castle and City Hall Station, GAMU offers a variety of dishes made with carefully selected ingredients and a wide range of drinks at reasonable prices. Among them, the '“Shigoku” Local Cuisine Course' is highly recommended, featuring local specialties such as Karashi Renkon, Basashi, and Akaushi steak.

5 Recommended Shops in Areas Currently Attracting Foreigners｜kyushu

The interior has a relaxed and calm atmosphere where you can unwind. In addition to the counter seats perfect for dates, the private rooms with sunken kotatsu can accommodate up to 24 people. You can also use the private rooms for small groups starting from 2 people by using partitions. Why not enjoy a pleasant time in Kumamoto with the hospitality that only a small shop can offer?

GAMU

Open: [Weekday,Saturday,Day Before Holidays] Dinner 6:00 pm - 12:00 am (last order 11:30 pm)
Closed: The shop is closed on Sundays and public holidays, but may be temporarily open.
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY
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3.Fukuoka [Shuko Uchiba]

Exquisite dishes featuring seasonal ingredients in a sophisticated setting

Exquisite dishes featuring seasonal ingredients enjoyed in a sophisticated setting

Located a 10-minute walk from Kushida Shrine Station, [Shuko Uchiba] is a restaurant where you can enjoy exquisite dishes made with fresh fish and seasonal ingredients. The 'Omakase Course,' which is a reservation-only menu created through conversations with the chef, is perfect for special occasions. The restaurant also offers a wide variety of a la carte dishes, making it a great place to treat yourself to a drink. The menu changes with each visit, making every encounter with their exquisite dishes an exciting experience.

5 Recommended Shops in the Area Currently Attracting Foreigners｜kyushu

Passing through the white noren and sliding open the door, you step into a space with only six counter seats, where the wooden texture creates a gentle atmosphere. Dining while watching the owner skillfully prepare dishes right in front of you is a special experience. In addition to seasonal sake that pairs well with the food, the selection also includes wine and champagne. If you travel to Fukuoka, this is a must-visit place.

Shuko Uchiba

Open: [Sunday,Tuesday - Saturday,Holidays,Day Before Holidays] Dinner 6:00 pm - 12:00 am (last order 11:00 pm)
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 8,000 JPY / [Lunch] 8,000 JPY
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4.Fukuoka [Dazaifu Iinoji]

A Japanese restaurant where you can enjoy ingredients unique to Kyushu

Located a 10-minute walk from Dazaifu Station, [Dazaifu Iinoji] is a Japanese restaurant where you can enjoy a variety of flavors using ingredients from Kyushu. The recommended 'Kyushu Black Wagyu Beef sukiyaki (hot pot stew) Set' allows you to savor tender Kyushu Black Wagyu Beef simmered in the restaurant's special broth in a small pot. Don't miss out on the tiramisu made with local Yame tea.

The shop is perfectly located for stopping by while sightseeing at places like the Kyushu National Museum and Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. The interior, with its large windows, features box-type sofa seats and private rooms, creating a bright and relaxing atmosphere. Why not stop by after enjoying your sightseeing and savor the culinary delights of Kyushu?

Dazaifu Iinoji

Open: [Sunday,Tuesday - Saturday,Holidays,Day Before Holidays] 11:00 am - 5:00 pm (last order 4:00 pm)
Closed: If Monday is a public holiday, the next day
Average price: [Dinner] 3,000 JPY / [Lunch] 3,000 JPY
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5.Fukuoka [Sushi Ei]

Savor the rich flavors of sushi made with carefully selected natural fish

Savor the rich flavors of sushi made with natural fish

Located right next to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, [Sushi Ei] is a place where you can enjoy authentic sushi at reasonable prices, with a focus on nigiri. In addition to a la carte options, there are also great value courses available for both lunch and dinner. Besides their proud sushi, you can also enjoy local Kyushu dishes, making it a place where you might find yourself staying longer than expected.

The spacious interior of the restaurant, which features a wood-based design, includes not only counter seats where you can enjoy the essence of a sushi restaurant, but also table seats and tatami rooms where you can relax and enjoy your meal. It's a nice point that they can flexibly accommodate your budget and group size. When you visit Dazaifu for sightseeing, be sure to stop by.

Sushi Ei

Open: [Sunday - Tuesday,Thursday - Saturday,Holidays,Day Before Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 9:30 pm (last order 9:00 pm) / Lunch 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Closed: If Wednesday is a holiday, Thursday will be closed.
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,500 JPY
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Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.