The 27 Must-Try Restaurants in Nagoya

One of the first places in Nagoya to receive a Michelin star, Kato focuses on exquisite hand-cut udon with a gleaming white appearance. Start your meal with seasonal tempura, served hot and lightly sprinkled with flaky sea salt. Don’t forget to ask about their selection of local and regional sake; a chilled bottle served over ice pairs perfectly with the crispy tempura. Conclude with a bowl of udon, either delicately dipped in a subtly salty dashi or topped with niku miso, a rich blend of wagyu beef and the area’s famous red miso. []

On your final day in Nagoya, don’t miss the chance to try kishimen, the city’s beloved flat noodles. Before boarding your train to Kyoto, Osaka, or Tokyo, swing by Kishimen Sumiyoshi, conveniently situated on platforms 3 and 4 of Nagoya Station for a quick meal. Their simple kishimen in broth is a popular choice, as well as the kakiage kishimen topped with a delightful mix of vegetable and shrimp tempura. Purchase a ticket from the vending machine for your preferred dish, enter the small booth, hand your ticket to the clerk, and grab a spot at the communal counter. There are no chairs, so prepare to stand shoulder-to-shoulder while enjoying your meal. [$]

For those spending just a day in Nagoya, it’s impossible to savor every iconic dish the city offers. However, you can experience a taste of it all at the breakfast buffet in the Nagoya Crown Hotel, where 1080 yen ($10) grants you access to a variety of Nagoya-meshi, from miso katsu and kishimen to hitsumabushi. This hotel earned the Rakuten Travel Award for Best Breakfast in the Aichi Region for both 2017 and 2018, and the buffet’s impressive array of options makes it an ideal spot to sample Nagoya in one sitting. [$$]

Asadaya has been hand-cutting noodles since before World War II. A favorite among office workers, the restaurant offers straightforward dishes like tamago toji udon (udon noodles in egg-drop broth) and wakame kishimen koro (cold kishimen noodles adorned with seaweed) that showcase the delightful chewiness of their noodles. For bolder flavors, opt for the hearty beef curry served over udon, kishimen, or ramen. Unlike other Japanese cities where curry broth is lightly flavored, in Nagoya, curry noodles are generously drenched in rich curry gravy. [$]

Styled like a trendy apartment, Cafe Molly is tucked away on the second floor of an unassuming building, providing a perfect escape from the bustling Osu Kannon shopping arcade below. Sink into one of their many low couches and select from the two rotating seasonal lunch specials. If you're in the mood for something sweet, don't miss the apple mille-feuille, which is served with a complimentary hot drink. The cafe also opens in the evening for those looking to enjoy some drinks. [$$]

This upscale restaurant has been delighting guests for 60 years with exquisite sushi and breathtaking views from the 29th floor of the Hotel Grand Court Nagoya. While you could opt for a la carte selections to save a few yen, why not indulge completely? At Kenzan, the fish is always as fresh as can be; on a recent visit, I was served a live octopus leg that had just been caught that very morning. Multi-course prix fixe menus begin at 8,000 yen ($73) for eight courses without beverages, with some tasting menus reaching up to 13,000 yen ($120) for more than ten courses. [$$$$]

This charming and unpretentious cake shop is run by patissier Yoshio Kurimoto, who achieved fourth place in the 2005 Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie, or World Pastry Cup. The afternoon cake set is priced at 1060 yen ($10) and includes your choice of hot or cold coffee or tea, a 'glass dessert' (compote or gelee served in a small glass), and a slice of cake from their display. You can select your preferred flavor or let fate decide. You really can’t go wrong with either choice. [$$]

This local chain of butcher shops features an accompanying yakiniku (barbecue) restaurant at each location, serving fresh, premium beef to dine-in customers. By cutting out a step in the supply chain, these restaurants can offer more affordable beef than competitors, but there are a few caveats. A cover charge of 1000 yen ($9) applies for men, while women pay 700 yen ($6.50). Diners who don’t order alcohol have a 90-minute time limit, while those who do have 120 minutes. Additionally, there are surcharges for any leftover rice, meat, or soup, so be mindful of your orders. While these policies may seem strict, any concerns will quickly fade as you enjoy the restaurant's renowned beef tongue and succulent fatty intestines. Fire up the grill at your table and cook to your heart’s delight. [$$]

You might be surprised to discover high-quality pizza in Nagoya, but a visit to Solo Pizza Napoletana will change your mind. This restaurant is a collaboration between Adolfo Marletta, a 69-year-old from Napoli, and Mayo Ota, a talented young Japanese chef. Ota was the winner of the 2014 Caputo Cup, a prestigious pizza-making competition, and together they have earned numerous accolades at Solo Pizza. Don't miss their signature dish, the Margherita Extra, topped with creamy buffalo mozzarella imported from Italy. [$]

This Indian restaurant, nestled in the basement of an office building, offers an unbeatable lunch menu. While the underground dining area might seem a bit dim, the colorful walls and the lively crowd of nearby office workers brighten the atmosphere. Lunch sets provide hearty, aromatic meals, featuring a rotating daily curry and unlimited freshly baked naan, all for 850 - 1000 yen ($8-10). Dinner prices are slightly higher without set options, but still worth it. Akbar also caters well to vegetarian diners. [$$]

Osso Brazil is a laid-back Brazilian rotisserie that stands out for its whole roasted chickens, a rarity in Japan. While you can opt for tasty sandwiches or single-serving plates, the ultimate experience is to gather a group, head to the second-floor dining room, and indulge in a whole chicken with sides to share. []

In Nagoya, mentioning misonikomi instantly brings to mind Yamamotoya. Renowned for its clay pot filled with savory noodles in a rich stew, this restaurant has become a local icon. The Sakae location, with its blend of modern and traditional vibes, is a favorite among both visitors and locals. During the lunch rush, the communal tables fill up quickly, but it's definitely worth the wait to enjoy your noodles in this inviting setting. []

With nine locations scattered across Nagoya, Konparu has become a beloved institution known for its delicious sandwiches and coffee. The main spot in vibrant Osu retains its vintage charm, complete with narrow tables and rich burgundy velour seating, just as it did when it first opened in 1947. On weekdays, locals flock here for the morning set meal, which includes ham and egg on toast paired with a hot cup of coffee; for an upgrade of just 130 yen ($1.20), you can enjoy a robust pour-over instead of the standard drip coffee. For lunch—or a hearty breakfast—their famous ebifurai sando, featuring three crispy, deep-fried shrimp nestled in fluffy shoku-pan (milk bread), is a must-try. [$]

While other Japanese cities may tease Nagoya residents for their fondness for miso, Yabaton, with its 40 years of expertise and 18 branches, demonstrates how to make the most of this beloved flavor. Try their miso katsu don, featuring rich pork, breaded and fried to a golden crisp, served atop white rice and generously smothered in a thick, rich miso sauce. Don’t miss their hire-kushi katsu, delightful skewers of pork, perfectly breaded, fried, and sauced. [$$]

Nagoya is renowned for its unique style of wafu (Japanese-style) spaghetti, called ankake, characterized by noodles smothered in a spicy-sour sauce inspired by Chinese flavors. While Spaghetti Yokoi is famous for its pre-packaged ankake sauce found in supermarkets nationwide, Spaghetti Como, located on the top floor of the Esca department store, is a beloved local gem. Enjoy your meal at the U-shaped counter, where you’ll be handed chopsticks instead of a fork to tackle an enormous serving of spaghetti. Favorites include the marengo (ankake sauce, sausage, and vegetables) and the egg-spa (ankake sauce, sausage, vegetables, and a fluffy omelet). [$]

While Atsuta Horaiken may be a bit out of the way from the city center, the long wait—often exceeding 30 minutes—and higher prices are all part of the experience at this hitsumabushi haven, which has been serving patrons since 1873. The chefs expertly grill eel in a rich, sweet soy sauce, then chop it into pieces and serve it over fluffy white rice, accompanied by traditional garnishes like freshly grated wasabi, finely chopped scallions, and delicate sheets of nori. Despite the challenges, savoring this iconic Nagoya dish at a storied establishment is an experience you shouldn't miss. [$$$]

A cherished spot for Nagoyans since 1968, Yuri is a jazz cafe and bar that draws an eclectic crowd. While you can certainly enjoy a quiet moment sipping coffee or a glass of scotch while soaking in the soothing vinyl tunes, the menu at Yuri is surprisingly impressive. Highlights include creamy, ketchup-covered chicken rice, tomato pasta paired with asari (littleneck clams), and for dessert lovers, the rich banana cake and indulgent chocolate brownie. [$$]

A local favorite in Nagoya, misonikomi features a clay pot brimming with steaming al dente udon, enveloped in the city’s distinctive deep red miso. Kadomaru offers a delightful rendition called misonikomi ume (with chicken thigh and egg), which has garnered a loyal following among nearby office workers. The restaurant tends to get a bit crowded, particularly during the lunch hour, so be prepared to wait, especially when the weather turns chilly. [$ - $$]

A prominent name among the celebrated Nagoya-meshi chains, Yamachan is a multi-story izakaya renowned for its tebasaki, or chicken wings. Instead of batter, the wings are fried to an extraordinary crispness that even the cartilage crumbles into delightful morsels. The finishing touch is a generous sprinkle of a spice blend rich in white pepper. While the side dishes vary in quality, the best approach is to pair a frosty pint of beer with a hefty serving of tebasaki and enjoy the night. [$$$]

Set within a historic Tokugawa residence, this elegant French-Japanese restaurant offers stunning views of meticulously maintained gardens. The lunch menu, which varies with the seasons, starts at 2,500 yen ($23) and includes a post-meal coffee. Dinner is a more opulent experience, often attended by guests dressed for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries. A recent dinner featured dishes like shiso-and-char siu-stuffed guinea fowl and phyllo-wrapped conger eel. Be sure to book a table in advance, especially for dinner. [$$$$]

With rave reviews from multiple sources, Ramen Kanade often has a line of eager diners. While you wait outside the cozy establishment, consider your choices: shio (salt), shoyu (soy sauce), or niboshi (sardine) ramen. When it’s finally your turn, the staff will welcome you in, where you can select your ramen from a ticket machine, paying extra for larger portions or toppings like additional chashu (roast pork). All three styles are expertly crafted, but for something unique, try the niboshi soba, which combines noodles with a bold, oceanic bitterness. [$]

This quaint and stylish bakery, with a touch of rustic charm, boasts a cheerful staff and is renowned for its cream-pan (a roll filled with rich, yolky custard). Indulge in loaves of shoku-pan with a caramelized top, seasonal fruit tarts (autumn visitors may be lucky enough to enjoy chestnut delights), and the classic Japanese wiener roll, featuring a juicy pork sausage nestled in soft brioche. Tucked away in a residential area, it's perfect to grab some goodies for your hotel or enjoy at one of the few tables available. [$$]

It’s easy to assume that a dish named “Taiwan Ramen” hails from Taiwan, but it actually gained fame in Nagoya through its Taiwanese founders. A bowl brimming with noodles is topped with ground pork and immersed in a fiery red broth infused with garlic and bird’s eye chiles. While multiple branches exist (Nagoya station, Yabacho, and even Tokyo), each reportedly has its own twist on the classic dish. For the authentic experience, visit the Imaike location and pair your meal with asari itame (sautéed littleneck clams with chiles). [$]

Nestled in the basement of an office complex, Shirakawa offers a budget-friendly and laid-back option for enjoying hitsumabushi. The calm and well-lit setting is more convenient than the renowned Horaiken. At first glance, their hitsumabushi may not seem distinct from others around the city, but the charred eel here is saltier, richer, and less caramelized than its competitors. While dinner is an option, most locals prefer lunch for lower prices and shorter waits. A mini hitsumabushi is also available for those desiring a lighter meal. [$$]

Considered the most iconic of Nagoya's restaurants turned national chain, Komeda Coffee has been serving customers since 1968 and now has over 800 locations throughout Japan. It’s especially popular in Nagoya, perfect for catching up with a friend, taking a break between appointments, or simply enjoying some downtime. The original spot in Irinaka maintains its cozy, smoky lodge vibe. Coffee lovers can choose from a strong dark roast served in an 8-ounce regular cup or a larger “big size” closer to 16 ounces, as is customary in the U.S. For something sweeter, indulge in the vibrant green cream soda topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream in a boot-shaped glass. Don't miss the renowned shiro-noir, a hot danish served with soft serve, which is said to be a signature creation of the chain. [$]

Ma Maison truly embodies its name (“my house”) with its inviting decor and soft, warm lighting. The quirky decorations and assorted knickknacks are arranged haphazardly, creating the ambiance of a worldly traveler’s living room. This charming Mytoury focuses on youshoku, which are Japanese interpretations of Western dishes. While it’s well-known for its hearty Hamburg steaks and fluffy omurice (fried rice topped with an omelet), don’t overlook delightful options like the garlicky escargot, rich cream and crab croquettes, and cheesy prawn gratin. [$$]

Amato Yokota is a delightful sweets shop renowned for its kakigori, or shaved ice, crafted in the signature style of Gifu Akawani. This regional favorite is known for its generous use of seasonal fruits and finely shaved, airy ice. Locals often flock here for the beloved coconut milk special, a towering pile of shaved ice drizzled with coconut milk and topped with fresh fruit. Another favorite is the cafe mocha kakigori, reminiscent of tiramisu, adorned with fluffy whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa. [$]