Walk the Nakasendo or Kumano Kodo — Then Taste Nagoya’s Best
Nagoya is not only a convenient gateway to the historic Nakasendo and Kumano Kodo, but also the birthplace of the bold, distinctive cuisine known as Nagoya-meshi. From rich miso-based noodles to perfectly grilled eel, the city’s flavors are as memorable as the historic roads themselves.
Whether you are preparing for a long walk or rewarding yourself afterward, these six iconic dishes offer the perfect taste of Nagoya—along with some of the city’s most beloved places to enjoy them.
A true Nagoya classic, miso nikomi udon features thick udon noodles simmered in a deeply savory broth made with Hatcho miso. Served bubbling in an earthenware pot, it is hearty, warming, and especially satisfying after a day on the trail.
Founded in 1925, Yamamotoya is a long-standing restaurant known for its firm, handmade noodles and its carefully balanced miso broth, prepared according to the original recipe. The Okute branch is within walking distance of Fukiage Station, making it an easy stop before or after your journey.
Address: 5-9-2 Okute-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi
Official website: https://en.a-yamamotoya.co.jp/
Nagoya-style chicken wings (tebasaki) are a quintessential local staple, with each establishment offering its own unique take—ranging from sweet-and-savory glazes to bold, peppery finishes. Founded in Nagoya in 1981, Sekai no Yamachan is famous for its signature Phantom Chicken Wings. These wings are defined by their intense, spicy pepper flavor. Seasoned with a Phantom Pepper blend that creates a truly addictive taste, they have previously earned the Grand Gold Medal in the chicken wing category at the Japan Karaage Association’s Karaage Grand Prix. Starting from its flagship shop in Sakae, Nagoya, the chain now operates across the Chubu, Kanto, and Kansai regions. You can find your nearest location by searching the store list on their official website.
Address: 4-9-6 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya, Aichi
Official website: https://www.yamachan.co.jp/english/
Kishimen is a variety of udon distinguished by its wide, flat noodles. With their smooth texture and generous surface area, the noodles absorb dashi (broth) beautifully, creating a light yet satisfying dish that has long been associated with Nagoya.
Established in 1923, Miya Kishimen is a respected local institution known for its careful attention to ingredients, preparation methods, and dashi. Set within the tranquil grounds of Atsuta Jingu Shrine, the Atsuta Jingu branch invites visitors to savor freshly prepared kishimen or a thoughtfully crafted set meal, all while surrounded by the quiet dignity of this historic shrine.
Address: 1-1-1 Jingu, Atsuta-ku, Nagoya, Aichi (On the grounds of Atsuta Jingu Shrine)
In Nagoya, ebi fry means generously sized shrimp fried to a crisp golden finish and served in satisfying portions. The contrast between the crunchy coating and the tender shrimp inside makes it a perennial favorite.
Founded in 1950, Maruha Shokudo began as a seafood restaurant in coastal Aichi and remains beloved for its straightforward, high-quality cooking. Its branch at Chubu Centrair International Airport offers a convenient place to enjoy freshly fried shrimp before departure or upon arrival.
Address: 1-1 Centrair, Tokoname, Aichi Chubu Centrair International Airport Passenger Terminal Building 4F, Chochin Yokocho
Miso katsu pairs crispy breaded pork cutlet with a rich, sweet-savory sauce made from soybean miso. The crunchy coating and deeply flavored sauce create a satisfying combination that has become one of Nagoya’s defining dishes.
Founded in 1947, Yabaton is one of the city’s most iconic miso katsu restaurants and a name synonymous with the dish. The Yaba-cho Honten is about a five-minute walk from Yabacho Station, making it a convenient stop after exploring the nearby Sakae and Osu districts.
Address: 3-6-18 Osu, Naka-ku, Nagoya, Aichi
Official website: https://english.yabaton.com/
Hitsumabushi is a Nagoya-born specialty featuring finely chopped grilled eel served over rice and enjoyed with condiments and tea. Established in 1873, Atsuta Horaiken is a long-standing institution that holds the registered trademark for hitsumabushi and is celebrated as the dish's originator.
At its main restaurant near the Atsuta Jingu Shrine, guests can enjoy authentic hitsumabushi served in traditional wooden ohitsu tubs. The classic way to experience the meal is in three stages: the first serving is enjoyed as is; the second with added condiments; and the third as ochazuke by pouring tea over the rice. It is the perfect culinary destination to savor Nagoya’s representative flavor before or after a shrine visit.
Address: 503 Godo-cho, Atsuta-ku, Nagoya, Aichi
Official website: https://www.houraiken.com/english/
Sampling Nagoya’s local specialties—whether before setting out on the Nakasendo or Kumano Kodo, or as a well-earned reward afterward—adds another layer of richness to your journey.
For up-to-date details, consult each restaurant’s official website or the tourism websites for Aichi Prefecture and the City of Nagoya.
