Want to Eat! 20 Recommended Gourmet Spots in Miyazaki City

One of the greatest pleasures of traveling is enjoying delicious food! In Japan, even crossing a single mountain can lead you to a completely different food culture. That’s why it’s so exciting to encounter unfamiliar tastes and discover local specialties when traveling.
This time, we’ll introduce some of the best gourmet spots in Miyazaki City. From well-known local favorites like chicken nanban and jidori (local free-range chicken) to sweets that bring joy to everyone, Miyazaki City is full of dishes that will delight your taste buds.
Be sure to use this article as a guide and do a little research on Miyazaki's gourmet scene before you head out on your trip!

1. Hi no Mai Rakui Miyazaki Ekimae

When it comes to bonito (katsuo), most people think of Kochi, but in fact, Miyazaki—known for its southern climate—boasts the highest catch volume of single-hook bonito fishing in Japan. Bonito is also one of Miyazaki’s hidden gourmet treasures.
Located in Miyazaki City, “Hi no Mai Rakui” proudly serves this local specialty. Its signature dish is straw-grilled bonito tataki. “Straw-grilling” is a cooking method where the surface of the fish is seared at high heat using burning straw. This locks in the umami flavor of the bonito while adding a delicious smoky aroma. The menu also includes other local must-try dishes like goma-dare-marinated shibi (yellowfin tuna) and straw-grilled Miyazaki chicken. At the Miyazaki Station branch, there's a lunch-only menu, so even those who don’t drink alcohol can enjoy Miyazaki cuisine during the day—making it a highly recommended izakaya.

2. Ippei Sushi

Blessed with an abundance of seafood, Miyazaki is also home to the origin of the lettuce roll, said to have started at Ippei Sushi in Miyazaki City. This roll features lettuce, shrimp, and mayonnaise. The plump shrimp and crisp lettuce texture blend perfectly with the mayonnaise sauce crafted especially for the lettuce roll—earning it high praise.
Though the lettuce roll initially received mixed reactions when it was first introduced, it is now beloved as a proud culinary creation of Miyazaki. Ippei Sushi is a humble local favorite, so feel free to drop by casually without feeling the need to dress up.

3. Ogura Main Store

If you come to Miyazaki, you can’t miss one of its signature dishes—chicken nanban. “Ogura Main Store” is said to be the birthplace of the tartar sauce-covered version of this dish. With its charming red and white awning, the restaurant has a parlor-like feel. Despite being tucked away in a back alley off a main road, it’s always bustling with customers.
Ogura’s chicken nanban is hearty, yet made with soft, tender chicken breast and a refreshingly sweet vinegar sauce, making it surprisingly easy to eat. The tartar sauce is famously delicious—you’ll understand why once you try it. This was created thanks to the relentless pursuit of flavor by founder Yoshimitsu Kai, and the same taste is preserved to this day. When people ask, “Where should I go for chicken nanban in Miyazaki City?” this is undoubtedly the top recommendation.

4. Tsukada Nojo Miyazaki Main Store

Tsukada Nojo is a nationwide chain, but its Miyazaki main store is a popular izakaya even in its hometown, known for serving Miyazaki's local jidori chicken. They proudly offer “Miyazaki Jitokko,” raised on their own poultry farm. You’ll also find a full range of Miyazaki delicacies, so you can enjoy a variety of local specialties. Since it’s a chain, it has a relaxed, accessible atmosphere which is a nice plus.
The fresh vegetables served as an appetizer from contracted farms are both bold and delicious! Despite being a chain, this place should not be underestimated.

5. Miyachiku Miyazaki Wagyu Teppanyaki Steakhouse

Before they are raised or used for breeding, calves are called “sugyu,” and Miyazaki is well-known for producing these high-quality calves. When these calves are raised and branded, they become the miracle taste that is “Miyazaki Beef.” Of course, as premium black-haired wagyu, it comes with a premium price tag, but since Miyachiku is operated by a local livestock company, you can enjoy Miyazaki Beef at a more affordable price.
The meat is grilled right in front of you, so you’ll experience the rising flames and mouthwatering aroma of the meat being cooked—truly irresistible. While the menu is mostly course-based, it includes a salad bar and drink bar, making it a great deal. The retro yet luxurious atmosphere inside the restaurant makes it a perfect place to enjoy high-quality beef. If you want to savor Miyazaki gourmet with ambiance, Miyachiku is a top recommendation!

6. Shokusai Kenbi Ichimoku Issou (Ichimoku Issou)

Located inside the Miyazaki Kanko Hotel, the restaurant Ichimoku Issou operates on the concept of local production for local consumption, using ingredients grown by local farmers in Miyazaki. It’s a buffet-style restaurant that offers 40 dishes for breakfast, and 80 dishes for lunch and dinner. You can enjoy all-you-can-eat options featuring not just Miyazaki-grown vegetables, but also regional specialties like hiyajiru (chilled soup with rice) and chicken nanban.
In addition to local specialties, the variety of dishes is designed to appeal to all age groups, making Ichimoku Issou a consistently popular dining spot. Since it's located within the Miyazaki Kanko Hotel, you might consider staying there during your visit to Miyazaki.

7. Jidori Sumibiyaki Suisen

Just a short walk from Miyazaki Station, Jidori Sumibiyaki Suisen is a renowned spot for enjoying exquisite local chicken dishes. It’s a popular place in Miyazaki City and is always bustling with customers. Some fans make a point of visiting every time they travel or come on business, so making a reservation in advance is recommended.
Suisen is a certified handler of Miyazaki’s prized local chicken, "Miyazaki Jitokko." They source freshly slaughtered Jitokko each morning, making not only the classic charcoal-grilled dishes but also their sashimi platter a standout. The signature charcoal-grilled chicken is jet-black in color, which may seem unusual to first-timers, but one bite and you’ll be hooked on the juicy flavor and chewy texture—an irresistible gourmet experience!

8. Karamenya Rin Miyazaki Branch

Karamen is a local specialty originally from Nobeoka City in Miyazaki Prefecture and has gained national popularity. The soy sauce-based soup is loaded with garlic and chili peppers, making it very spicy—true to its name. However, it also has a deep and rich umami flavor that gets people addicted, turning it into a beloved noodle dish.
At the Karamenya Rin Miyazaki branch, you can adjust the spiciness level, so even those who don’t handle spicy food well can enjoy it comfortably. A unique feature is their use of chewy Korean-style noodles. It's also relatively low in calories, making it a guilt-free dish even for a late-night meal. It’s the kind of gourmet you’ll want to eat while sweating it out in tropical Miyazaki.

9. Ganso Yakitori Maruman Main Store

Hidden in the back alleys of Tachibana Street is “Ganso Yakitori Maruman Main Store,” a yakitori spot specializing in Miyazaki local chicken. With a charming exterior and a proud sign saying "Original," the restaurant is a long-established place that opened in 1954. They’re committed to grilling with binchotan charcoal made from oak wood. Their signature grilled Miyazaki chicken thigh is served medium-rare. You can enjoy it as a whole or ask for it to be cut into bite-sized pieces.
Just one bite and the savory chicken juices—concentrated by the grilling—burst in your mouth. The menu is kept simple and focused, but aside from the classic thigh meat, the chicken wings are also popular. With the perfect balance of volume, taste, and price, it’s a highly satisfying meal.

10. Kama-age Udon Togakushi Main Store

Although not widely known nationwide, Miyazaki is actually famous for its udon. Unlike the firm Sanuki udon, Miyazaki’s udon features soft, thin, and slippery noodles that are boiled to perfection. Some might say they lack firmness, but that tenderness is exactly what makes them unique. These noodles are enjoyed in a broth topped with tempura flakes—this is Miyazaki-style kama-age udon.
At Togakushi Main Store, which has over 40 years of history in Miyazaki City, the udon is served in a sweet dipping sauce with a touch of yuzu aroma, and the chewy thin noodles have a distinctive texture. Once you try this irresistible kama-age udon, you’ll be hooked. It’s especially great as a finishing dish after drinks. Be sure to try this hidden Miyazaki specialty!

11. Michi no Eki Phoenix

Originally created as rest stops for safe driving, roadside stations (michi no eki) now also play a role in promoting and revitalizing local communities through specialty product sales. As a result, many have become tourist attractions themselves.
Michi no Eki Phoenix is located slightly past the scenic Horikiri Pass, one of Miyazaki’s most breathtaking viewpoints. The station is known for its restaurant with a stunning ocean view and for offering five varieties of soft serve ice cream. On the second floor, you can dine while enjoying a panoramic view of the Nichinan coastline and savor local foods and traditional dishes. The famous soft serve flavors include classics like milk, as well as tropical Miyazaki flavors like hyuganatsu citrus and mango, plus more unique options like ashitaba (leafy green) and shrimp. Be sure to stop by during your drive and try these locally inspired sweets!

12. Fruit Ohno

Miyazaki is famous for its tropical fruits such as mangoes, hyuganatsu, and kumquats. Located in the heart of Miyazaki City, Fruit Ohno is a long-established fruit store and also well-known as a parlor with an eat-in space inside.
The most popular item on the menu is the classic fruit parfait, which features seasonal fruits. But if you’re visiting Miyazaki, you’ll definitely want to try the tropical parfait or mango parfait made with local tropical fruits. They also serve lunch, and a full-size parfait is included as a free dessert. If you want to enjoy Miyazaki’s fruit gourmet offerings, you can't go wrong with Fruit Ohno!

13. Odamaki

In Miyazaki, it’s tradition to finish off a night of drinking with a bowl of udon—specifically, kama-age udon. Odamaki, located in the downtown area of Miyazaki City, is a famous udon shop known for this very dish. Because of its central location, it’s a go-to late-night spot, and it's not uncommon to see people lining up even late into the evening.
The dipping broth, made from fish like bonito, has a refreshing taste, and the addition of yuzu gives it a fragrant aroma. The slightly flat, thin noodles pair perfectly with the broth and go down smoothly—an ideal dish for anyone seeking comforting local fare.

14. Sumibiyakiniku En

Sumibiyakiniku En is a place where you can enjoy Miyazaki's prized wagyu beef at a reasonable price. Here, you can savor not only Miyazaki beef but also Miyazaki jidori chicken and Kyushu-raised wagyu, all grilled over a traditional charcoal shichirin. They also offer seafood, making it a top choice for tasting various local delicacies.
If you want to enjoy Miyazaki beef even more affordably, lunch is your best bet. Weekday-only lunch service still features a complete menu, including grilling meat over a charcoal shichirin, with generous portions. The restaurant is also praised for its friendly service. It’s a spot you’ll want to recommend for both its flavor and atmosphere.

15. Auwa

Miyazaki, which neighbors tomato-producing Kumamoto, also has a deep connection to tomatoes. And now, it’s home to a creative new local dish: tomato ramen. But this isn’t just ramen with tomato thrown in—it also features unique noodles.
At “Auwa,” the noodles are kneaded with basil, the soup has a pork bone base, and it’s topped with cheese. The result tastes almost like Italian cuisine, and even those who don’t usually like tomatoes can enjoy it to the last bite. The classic way to finish is by adding a tomato rice dish at the end to turn it into a risotto. This easy-to-eat local gourmet dish is perfect when you want a quick meal.

16. Oragamura

Many popular gourmet spots in Miyazaki City are covered in celebrity and pro baseball player autographs—and “Oragamura” is no exception. While Miyazaki jidori chicken is usually grilled or skewered, Oragamura specializes in chicken hot pot.
This dish, called “Shan Nabe,” begins with sipping the soup, then you add chicken meatballs to the pot yourself. After about a minute, when they’re nearly rare, dip them in a special vinegar sauce and enjoy. This nearly-rare state is so delicious you’ll be amazed! At the end, rice is added to the rich soup for a perfect zosui (rice porridge). In addition to hot pot, they also serve sashimi, charcoal-grilled dishes, and chicken nanban. If you have room in your stomach, definitely try them!

17. Mori no Shiki

Behind the Aeon Miyazaki store sits a charming retro brick building: Mori no Shiki, a classic coffeehouse that has been in business for over 40 years. A good café should first and foremost be comfortable, and this one fits the bill with its antique-style interior and relaxing ambiance.
Don’t underestimate the food either. Their thick pancakes, hearty sandwiches, and pasta dishes are incredibly satisfying. While they don’t specialize in Miyazaki gourmet per se, this is a beloved local hangout. It’s the perfect place to take a break in tropical Miyazaki with a high-quality cup of coffee.

18. Okashi no Hidaka Main Store

One of Miyazaki’s hidden sweet specialties is the enormous daifuku called Nanjakora Daifuku. Okashi no Hidaka, the shop that sells it, offers not only Japanese sweets but also Western-style ones. Another flagship product is the Nanjakora Choux.
The Nanjakora Daifuku is about the size of a child’s fist and is remarkably heavy. Stuffed with strawberries, chestnuts, sweet red bean paste, and cream cheese, the name “nanjakora” (meaning “what the heck is this?!”) makes perfect sense. Each piece is handmade and tastes absolutely delicious. Other unique products include Miyazaki’s famous cheese manju and “Miyazaki-jin,” a chocolate monaka shaped like a Haniwa figure. It's a must-visit for anyone who loves sweet gourmet treats.

19. Omori Udon

Omori Udon, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2013, is a long-established udon shop founded in 1913. As the name suggests, their servings are about 1.3 times the normal portion. The noodles are the typical soft, thin style unique to Miyazaki, but the broth is quite distinctive.
Unlike the kama-age udon that is typical of Miyazaki, Omori Udon specializes in soup-based udon, similar to kake udon. The striking feature is the dark color of the soup, which is rare even within Kyushu. It uses iriko (dried sardines) to create a rich and sweet broth. The flavor has remained unchanged for over a century and continues to be beloved in Miyazaki. Since it's a rare taste in the region, it's worth trying at least once.

20. Ganso Nikumaki Honpo Miyazaki Main Store

Former Governor Hideo Higashikokubaru did extensive PR for Miyazaki Prefecture, and one of the B-grade gourmet dishes that became popular during that time was niku-maki onigiri (rice balls wrapped in meat). Though now commonly seen around Miyazaki City, Ganso Nikumaki Honpo is the original creator of the dish.
Originally a staff meal, it’s now a standard dish enjoyed even as a late-night snack. The meat is marinated in a soy sauce-based glaze, wrapped around a rice ball, and baked in an oven. It’s so delicious that practically no one dislikes it. Located in downtown Miyazaki City, Ganso Nikumaki Honpo is a casual and tasty gourmet option perfect for takeout.

◎ Summary

This article focused on introducing some of the most popular gourmet spots in and around Miyazaki City. Miyazaki is a treasure trove of delicious ingredients—meat, vegetables, fruits, and more. Of course, there are countless other restaurants offering amazing gourmet experiences beyond those introduced here. True to its tropical setting, Miyazaki not only preserves its traditional cuisine but also actively develops new dishes, exuding a vibrant and forward-looking energy.
If you ever visit Miyazaki City, let this article be your guide as you indulge in all the delicious local gourmet treats the area has to offer!

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Want to Eat! 20 Recommended Gourmet Spots in Miyazaki City