Offbeat NAGOYA｜Discover the unexpected side of Nagoya & Tokai region

Tag: Food & Drink

  • Luxury Beef Cuisine in a Traditional Japanese Setting – Steakhouse Mori Farm｜Handa, Aichi

    Luxury Beef Cuisine in a Traditional Japanese Setting – Steakhouse Mori Farm｜Handa, Aichi

    A Special Space in a Renovated Traditional House

    Located in Handa City, Aichi Prefecture, Steakhouse Mori Farm is a popular destination where you can enjoy steak, shabu-shabu, and sukiyaki.

    What makes it unique is its interior, created by renovating a large traditional Japanese house. Spacious private rooms allow you to dine comfortably with family or friends without worrying about your surroundings. Inside, you’ll even find maple trees and guardian statues, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that feels like stepping into another world. The balance of traditional Japanese aesthetics and playful design makes for a truly special dining experience.

    Exquisite Beef Dishes, Featuring Chita Beef

    The highlight of Mori Farm is, of course, its beef dishes. The restaurant serves carefully selected cuts of beef, including the locally renowned Chita Beef, which you can savor as steak, sukiyaki, or shabu-shabu. First-time visitors often choose between steak or sukiyaki—whichever you order, the flavor and tenderness are sure to impress.

    The photo shown here features beef other than Chita Beef, but it’s still delicious enough to make you want more rice. In the case of sukiyaki, rice refills are free, and the sweet-savory broth pairs perfectly with the beef, making it hard to stop eating. To finish, the house-style udon is also outstanding, leaving you satisfied until the very last bite.

    A Course Meal That Includes Dessert

    Your meal concludes with dessert. Along with fresh melon, you can choose coffee or ice cream—but be prepared, the ice cream comes in a surprisingly large size. Its sweetness and coolness refresh your palate after the rich meal, while the generous portion ensures you end your dining experience feeling truly indulged.

    The greatest charm of Mori Farm is that you can relax in a spacious private room and enjoy delicious cuisine to your heart’s content. If you’re visiting Handa, this is a restaurant you won’t want to miss.

    Access

    2-84 Hiiragi-cho, Handa, Aichi 475-0916

  • Bars Lined Up in the Alluring Nishiguchi District｜Toyohashi

    Bars Lined Up in the Alluring Nishiguchi District｜Toyohashi

    A Bar District with Post-War Charm

    Just a few minutes from the west exit (Shinkansen side) of Toyohashi Station, you’ll find a retro street where small bars stand shoulder to shoulder. Formed during Japan’s post-war reconstruction, this area still retains a strong Showa-era atmosphere. Neon signs and wooden facades glow against the night, creating a nostalgic yet slightly mysterious mood.

    On both sides of the street, you’ll discover red lantern izakaya pubs, yakiniku restaurants sending up savory smoke, and even international spots serving pizza and Mexican cuisine. A simple stroll is exciting in itself—you’ll be drawn in by laughter and the clinking of glasses from the alleys, and before you know it, that “just one drink” might turn into an evening of bar-hopping.

    Small-Scale Bars with Big Personality

    Most establishments are two stories, with cozy first floors featuring counters of just 7 or 8 seats. The close quarters make it easy to strike up conversations with locals and owners, even on your first visit. Some places also offer upstairs seating or private rooms, perfect for settling in with friends—or for stopping by alone on a whim.

    At the counter in particular, the aromas from the kitchen, the sizzling sounds of cooking, and casual chats with the owner all become part of the experience, naturally encouraging you to order another round.

    Redevelopment Looms—A “Now or Never” Experience

    Although this area sits right next to the station, it has remained largely untouched for decades. Recently, however, aging buildings and new city planning discussions have raised the possibility of redevelopment. If that begins in earnest, the days of this Showa-style nightlife district may be numbered.

    That’s exactly why now is the time to experience its charm. Immerse yourself in the nostalgic, bustling warmth of this community, where memories of post-war Japan still linger, and enjoy a uniquely Toyohashi night before it changes forever.

    Access

    Hanada Ichiban-cho, Toyohashi, Aichi 441-8013

  • A Taste of Hida Beef in a Modern, Comfortable Setting – Gyu-Zanmai Yakiniku | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    A Taste of Hida Beef in a Modern, Comfortable Setting – Gyu-Zanmai Yakiniku | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    If you’re visiting Nagoya, one dining spot you shouldn’t miss is **Gyu-Zanmai Hirabari**. Here, you can indulge in Japan’s world-renowned **Hida beef**, along with premium cuts of domestic black wagyu, served fresh and prepared with care.

    The Craft Behind the Melt-in-Your-Mouth Flavor – Exploring the World of Hida Beef, Gifu’s Renowned Wagyu

    The Gyu-Zanmai Commitment

    To bring out the best flavor of Hida beef, the restaurant follows strict standards:

    • Secret house-made sauce that pairs perfectly with top-grade rice
    • Fresh cuts prepared within 20 minutes of leaving refrigeration
    • Skilled knife work tailored to each cut of meat
    • Meat processed in the restaurant’s own certified factory for safety and quality

    Every dish reflects craftsmanship and pride, turning yakiniku into an art form.

    Clean, Comfortable Dining

    Travel meals should be enjoyable and relaxing.
    The interior of Gyu-Zanmai Hirabari is bright, modern, and spotless, with touches of traditional Japanese design. Spacious tables allow groups and families to dine comfortably without feeling crowded.

    Premium Beef at Honest Prices

    Despite serving high-quality Hida beef, prices remain reasonable. Guided by the idea of making **Japanese yakiniku culture accessible to everyone**, the restaurant offers a premium dining experience at a price that travelers can enjoy with confidence.

    Easy Access in Nagoya

    Located just **one minute on foot from Hirabari Station*

    • on the Tsurumai Subway Line, the restaurant is easy to reach. It’s a perfect stop to wrap up your day of sightseeing with a delicious Japanese barbecue experience.

      Reservations Recommended

      As one of the area’s most popular yakiniku spots, reservations are highly recommended. Avoid the disappointment of being turned away by booking in advance.

      For international visitors, online reservations are available—quick, simple, and accessible from your smartphone or laptop, even if you’re not confident in Japanese.

      Access

      Gyu-Zanmai Hirabari
      2F, 2-1407 Hirabari, Tenpaku-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 468-0011

      1-minute walk from Exit 2, Hirabari Station (Tsurumai Line)

  • Enjoy Japanese, Western & Chinese Set Meals Plus Izakaya Favorites! Relax in a Spacious Popular Tavern – Tengu Daihall Nagoya Hara | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    Enjoy Japanese, Western & Chinese Set Meals Plus Izakaya Favorites! Relax in a Spacious Popular Tavern – Tengu Daihall Nagoya Hara | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    Located just steps from Hara Subway Station in Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya City, “Tengu Daihall Nagoya Hara” is an izakaya that excels at serving hearty set meals alongside traditional tavern fare. Whether you visit for lunch or dinner, this popular local spot caters to a wide range of dining needs as both a set meal restaurant and izakaya.

    Extensive Japanese, Western & Chinese Set Meals Perfect for Travelers

    One of Tengu Daihall’s greatest attractions is the incredible variety of set meals available. With options spanning Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine, you can choose whatever suits your mood on any given day.

    They offer grilled fish set meals and other traditional Japanese dishes, making it perfect for international travelers who want to “try Japanese fish dishes beyond sushi.” Rice portions can be ordered as regular, large, or extra-large servings, ideal for those wanting to savor Japan’s delicious rice to their heart’s content.

    Izakaya-Style Small Plates and Drinks Available Too

    Since this is fundamentally an izakaya, they offer an extensive menu of small plates and appetizers. You can easily order some snacks alongside your set meal and enjoy them with drinks. The casual atmosphere that allows drinking from lunchtime onward is another reason why both tourists and local regulars love this place.

    Spacious Table Seating for a Relaxed Dining Experience

    The interior features generously sized tables spread throughout a roomy space. Each seating area has partitions, creating a semi-private booth feeling that’s popular with families and groups.

    The spacious seating arrangement provides a comfortable environment where you can enjoy conversation and linger over your meal. Whether it’s a lunch break or an evening gathering, you can dine in a relaxed atmosphere.

    Instagram Perks Offer Weekly Freebies

    At Tengu Daihall, simply following their Instagram account earns you exciting perks. For example, they offer weekly rotating freebies like complimentary fried chicken, ice cream, or drinks that have proven extremely popular.

    Even small complimentary items like these can make your travel memories or everyday meals more enjoyable. Feel free to follow them and take advantage of these great deals.

    Featured on TV! A Popular Spot Even in Suburban Nagoya

    Despite being located in the somewhat suburban area of Hara in Tenpaku Ward, this restaurant has been featured on television for its unique menu and great value services. It has now become famous enough to attract customers from outside the city.

    Known by those in the know as the “ultimate value restaurant,” it’s definitely worth a visit as part of your Nagoya sightseeing.

    Weekend Reservations Recommended

    Weekends and holidays tend to get particularly busy, so we recommend making reservations if you’re planning to visit. As a convenient set meal spot to drop into during your sightseeing and an izakaya where you can enjoy the local atmosphere, Tengu Daihall Nagoya Hara is sure to be a satisfying dining experience.

    Access Information

    Address

    Hara 1-2106, Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya City, Aichi 468-0015

    Access

    1-minute walk from Hara Subway Station

  • Italian Restaurant “Tenmentabo Aiueo” – A Favorite of Akira Toriyama | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    Italian Restaurant “Tenmentabo Aiueo” – A Favorite of Akira Toriyama | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    A must-visit spot where you can step into Toriyama’s world

    Beloved worldwide, Dragon Ball has captured the hearts of generations. I still remember visiting Germany around the year 2000, when I spotted the German edition in a local bookstore. Recognizing the scene made me feel as if I suddenly understood German—such is the universal power of Toriyama’s storytelling.

    More Than Just Dragon Ball – Who Was Akira Toriyama?

    One of the restaurants Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump, was known to frequent is the Italian eatery Tenmentabo Aiueo, located in the Hirabari area of Nagoya’s Tenpaku Ward.

    Inside, you’ll find autographed illustrations and sketches from both Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump Arale-chan, giving the entire restaurant the feel of stepping into Toriyama’s creative universe. For fans, this is truly a special place worth visiting at least once.

    Generous Portions and Outstanding Flavor

    What makes “Tenmentabo Aiueo” stand out isn’t only its connection to Toriyama—it’s also renowned for its hearty portions and delicious food.

    Each dish is about 1.3 times the size of a typical restaurant serving, yet dishes are reasonably priced and authentically prepared. It’s easy to see why locals have continued to support this restaurant for so many years.

    For those who love oversized meals, there are also special “big portion” courses, perfect for sharing with friends. Stopping by here during your trip is a fun way to enjoy both good food and lively conversation.

    A Stylish Space with Japanese-Western Charm

    The interior is clean, spacious, and blends Japanese and Western design for a warm, relaxing atmosphere. It’s the ideal setting to enjoy a leisurely meal while savoring the restaurant’s generous servings.

    With space for up to 30 guests, the restaurant can also accommodate group dinners and casual parties, making it a great choice for travelers dining in groups.

    Summary

    For fans of Akira Toriyama, Tenmentabo Aiueo is nothing short of a pilgrimage spot. For food lovers, it is also a hidden gem offering outstanding flavor and impressive portions. Whether you come for the connection to Toriyama’s world or simply for the food, it promises to be a memorable dining experience.

    Access

    Address

    3-704 Hirabari, Tenpaku-ku, Nagoya, Aichi

    Subway

    Hirabari Station (Tsurumai Line), Exit 1 – about 3 minutes on foot

  • An Authentic Hidden Italian Gem That Feels Like Getting Lost in the Forest – Trattoria esse | Anjo City

    An Authentic Hidden Italian Gem That Feels Like Getting Lost in the Forest – Trattoria esse | Anjo City

    Escape the hustle and bustle of city life in an extraordinary space that feels like being deep in the forest. That’s exactly what you’ll find at “Trattoria esse,” a hidden Italian restaurant in Anjo City. Surrounded by tranquility and lush greenery, you can savor authentic Italian cuisine enhanced with distinctly Japanese attention to detail.

    A Luxurious Escape in a Forest Hideaway

    Both the exterior and interior of the restaurant evoke a forest cottage retreat. You’ll find yourself immersed in an otherworldly sanctuary surrounded by greenery, offering the kind of leisurely dining experience that’s simply impossible to find at urban Italian restaurants.

    Extensive Menu of Authentic Italian Cuisine

    Every dish is meticulously prepared, with a prix fixe style menu offering 5-10 choices each for antipasto, pasta, risotto, and main courses. The seasonal ingredients shine in every dish, ensuring that whatever you choose will be absolutely delicious. An excellent selection of Italian wines is also available, perfect for pairing with your meal.

    House-Made Bread is Another Highlight

    The freshly baked house-made bread is a simple yet outstanding creation that lets the natural flavors of the ingredients shine through. The staff will gladly bring you additional warm bread as needed, ensuring you’re completely satisfied throughout your meal. When enjoyed with olive oil or the sauces from your dishes, the flavors become even more remarkable.

    Warm, Attentive Service for Complete Relaxation

    The staff provides exceptionally thoughtful and friendly service. Table clearing and service flow seamlessly, ensuring you’re always comfortable throughout your visit. While they may not be entirely confident with English, their gestures and attentive care more than make up for any language barriers, allowing international guests to dine with complete peace of mind.

    Summary

    Trattoria esse is truly deserving of its “hidden gem” reputation, offering perfect harmony between exceptional food, ambiance, leisurely pace, and service. With Anjo Koen Denpark nearby, it makes for an ideal travel itinerary to visit the park followed by an elegant Italian dinner.

    Access Information

    Address

    Fukugama-cho Sarumachi 41-1, Anjo, Aichi
    Phone: 070-3523-1313

    Access

    • About 15 minutes by car from JR Anjo Station
    • Approximately 2.7km from JR Mikawa-Anjo Station

  • Plump Shrimp Katsu is Also Popular! Hand-Flattened Tonkatsu at Hyakunentei | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    A Renowned Restaurant Where Artisan Craftsmanship Shines in “Hand-Flattened Tonkatsu”

    Located near Ueda Station in Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya City, “Hyakunentei” is a tonkatsu specialty restaurant featuring hand-flattened tonkatsu (“tenobe tonkatsu”) as their signature dish, lovingly prepared by the owner-chef. The restaurant’s name embodies their desire to “deliver flavors that will last a hundred years,” and true to its name, you can taste the meticulous craftsmanship in every single bite.

    They use only premium domestic pork. Their “tenobe” (hand-flattened) style involves hand-flattening each piece of meat after ordering, coating it with breadcrumbs, and deep-frying it to perfection. This technique creates an exquisite balance of meat thickness and tenderness with a remarkably light, crispy coating.

    Despite Being a Tonkatsu Restaurant, “Shrimp Katsu” is Their Secret Hit

    At Hyakunentei, the hidden gem on their menu is actually the “Shrimp Katsu.” The presentation is so stunning that it’s been praised on social media as having “an artistic cross-section!” Packed with plump, juicy shrimp, each bite bursts with incredible seafood flavor.

    This dish is particularly irresistible to female customers and shrimp lovers, with some devoted fans saying they “come here specifically for the shrimp katsu rather than the tonkatsu.” The visual impact and perfect flavor balance make it truly exceptional.

    Spacious, Clean Interior for a Relaxing Dining Experience

    The restaurant has a calm, understated exterior, and inside, you’ll find a spacious dining area with plenty of room between tables. The uniform table setup exudes cleanliness and appeals to customers of all ages.

    While famous tonkatsu restaurants often feel cramped with tight seating, Hyakunentei allows you to dine comfortably with plenty of space to enjoy your meal.

    No Reservations Accepted – Come Early and Be Prepared to Wait

    Unfortunately, they don’t accept reservations, and lines frequently form during lunch and dinner hours, especially on weekends and holidays. Wait times of 30 minutes or more are not uncommon, so if you want to avoid the wait, we recommend arriving about 30 minutes before opening time.

    Unlimited Cabbage Refills and Miso Soup Served in Clay Pots

    Tonkatsu and cabbage go hand in hand, and at Hyakunentei, cabbage refills are complimentary. The crisp, fresh cabbage helps cut through the richness of the fried food, allowing you to enjoy your meal feeling refreshed until the very last bite.

    Additionally, the miso soup is served piping hot in traditional clay pots, staying warm until your final sip and significantly enhancing your overall dining satisfaction.

    A Small Post-Meal Delight: Ice Cream Served with a Flower Vase

    After your meal, you’ll be served cool vanilla ice cream alongside a small glass flower vase. This refreshing dessert is the perfect way to end your meal, accompanied by a heartwarming presentation that soothes the soul.

    You can feel the restaurant’s thoughtful attention to “delighting the eyes as well as the palate,” creating a memorable experience that stays with every visitor.

    Access Information

    Address

    2-100 Uedahonmachi, Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 468-0007

    Access

    10-minute walk from Ueda Subway Station

  • A Hidden Gem in Nagoya: Shidare Plum Blossoms and Fresh Milk Soft-Serve Ice Cream at dela Farm｜Nagoya, Tenpaku

    A Green Escape in the Heart of the City

    Looking for a break from the busy streets of Nagoya? The Nagoya City Agricultural Center “dela Farm” is the perfect getaway. With wide grassy lawns, greenhouses, and friendly farm animals, this free-entry park offers a relaxing experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. It’s hard to believe such a peaceful spot exists just a short train ride from the city center!

    What’s in a Name? The Story of “dela Farm”

    The nickname “dela Farm” was chosen in 2015 to mark the center’s 50th anniversary. “Dela” comes from the Nagoya dialect word meaning “very” or “super,” a phrase locals often use in everyday life. It also stands for delicious, enjoy, learn, agriculture, perfectly capturing the park’s mission as a place to experience food, fun, and farming.

    Must-Try: Homemade Soft-Serve Ice Cream

    No visit is complete without tasting the farm’s famous soft-serve ice cream, made from fresh milk produced right on-site. It’s rich, creamy, and absolutely delicious. Gelato is also available, sometimes with seasonal flavors, so you’ll want to come back for more.

    Meet the Animals

    Say hello to cows, sheep, chickens, and even newly hatched chicks. Watching the chicks in the incubator is always a heartwarming highlight, especially for kids. The park’s paths are stroller- and wheelchair-friendly, making it an easy and comfortable stop for everyone.

    Seasonal Highlights

    If you’re visiting in spring, don’t miss the Plum Blossom Festival, when hundreds of colorful blossoms create a picture-perfect backdrop. Food stalls selling local fruits, sweets, and snacks make the atmosphere festive and fun. Other unique activities, like meeting Nagoya’s famous Yagoto carrots or chick-handling experiences, add an extra touch of local charm.

    Try Japanese-Style BBQ at “BBQ CANVAS Hirabari”

    Want to enjoy a Japanese BBQ without any hassle? Head to BBQ CANVAS Hirabari, a reservation-only spot inside the park where everything is provided—grills, charcoal, tableware, and even cleanup service. Just bring your own food, or choose one of the ready-to-go set menus.

    You can rent the space for up to 6 hours. Prices start from 1,700 yen for the equipment set, or 3,400 yen including ingredients (children’s pricing available). With scenic views and local specialties like Nagoya Cochin chicken, it’s the perfect way to spend a relaxed afternoon with friends or family.

    Why Visit dela Farm?

    Whether you’re here for the flowers, the animals, or the soft-serve ice cream, dela Farm is a must-visit hidden gem in Nagoya. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, enjoy nature, and make lasting memories—without leaving the city.

    Access

    Nagoya City Agricultural Center “dela Farm”
    2872-3 Kuroishi, Hirabari, Tempaku-cho, Tempaku Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 468-0021

    By Subway

    Take the Tsurumai Line and get off at Hirabari Station. From there, it’s about a 20-minute walk.

    By Bus

    From Hirabari Station, take a city bus bound for “Subway Hara” and get off at Nogyo Center Kita. The farm is just a 5-minute walk from the bus stop.

  • Souvenir from Byōbuzan Parking Area: Kurikinton Kintsuba | Mizunami City, Gifu

    Souvenir from Byōbuzan Parking Area: Kurikinton Kintsuba | Mizunami City, Gifu

    A Stopover to Enjoy the Flavors of Gifu

    Byōbuzan, straddling Mizunami and Ena cities in Gifu Prefecture, is the highest peak in Mizunami at 794.1 meters. Its ridgeline, resembling a folding screen, is a striking sight and attracts hikers and casual climbers alike. In summer, the mountain is also known as the production area of the sweet and juicy “Byōbuzan Watermelon,” drawing many visitors in search of its refreshing taste.

    About 5 kilometers north of the mountain lies Byōbuzan Parking Area, a compact rest stop along the Chūō Expressway. Despite its small size, it offers a rich taste of local charm.

    Local Specialty: Kurikinton Kintsuba

    This region is famous nationwide for chestnut confections. In particular, the Ena–Nakatsugawa area is celebrated as the home of Kurikinton, a traditional chestnut sweet that has inspired a variety of wagashi (Japanese confections).

    At Byōbuzan PA, you can easily enjoy this regional flavor. One highlight is Kurikinton Kintsuba—a moist azuki (red bean) coating filled with rich, sweet chestnut paste. Bite-sized and not overly sweet, it lets you savor the natural taste of chestnuts. Perfect as a light snack on the road or a thoughtful souvenir.

    Regional Flavors on the Road

    Byōbuzan Parking Area also participates in the Highway Retail Stamp Card program. Order a meal in the dining area, scan your meal ticket with your smartphone, and collect stamps—ten stamps earn you a free dish.

    Highway rest areas in Japan are more than just places to take a break; they serve as compact “mini tourist spots” where travelers can experience local culture and specialties. Stopping here adds extra richness to your journey.

    Conclusion

    At Byōbuzan Parking Area, you can enjoy Kurikinton Kintsuba, a sweet that reflects the nature and traditions of Mizunami and Ena. On your next drive, be sure to take a taste of Gifu with you.

    Access

    Byōbuzan Parking Area (Inbound / Upbound)

    3282-15 Tokimachi, Mizunami City, Gifu 509-6101

    Byōbuzan Parking Area (Outbound / Downbound)

    987-2 Kamadomachi, Mizunami City, Gifu 509-6472

  • A Comforting Meal in One Tray – What Is a Japanese “Teishoku”?

    Nutritious, balanced, and deeply satisfying — a simple yet profound way to experience home-style Japanese dining

    What is “Teishoku”?

    “Teishoku” refers to a fixed set meal commonly served in Japanese restaurants or diners. It typically includes rice, miso soup, a main dish (like grilled fish or fried pork cutlet), and one or more side dishes such as small vegetable servings or pickles. Unlike à la carte dining where you choose each item individually, teishoku comes pre-arranged as a complete set.

    It’s a style rooted in everyday Japanese home cooking, offering a comforting taste of familiarity for locals and visitors alike.

    A Style Grounded in Traditional Meal Structure

    Teishoku is based on the traditional Japanese concept of ichiju-sansai — one soup and three dishes. This format includes a soup (like miso or clear broth), one main dish, and two side dishes. It’s considered nutritionally well-balanced and visually appealing.

    The teishoku culture took strong hold in the post-war era, especially during Japan’s rapid economic growth. Affordable and hearty, it became a staple in diners across the country for supporting workers and families alike.

    Common Teishoku Menus

    Teishoku offerings are highly diverse, often reflecting regional ingredients and seasonal flavors. Some popular examples include:

    Grilled Fish Teishoku

    Salted mackerel with rice, miso soup, and pickles.

    Ginger Pork Teishoku

    Sliced pork sautéed in ginger sauce, often served with shredded cabbage.

    Tonkatsu Teishoku

    Crispy breaded pork cutlet, with rice and soup — a classic combination.

    Daily Special Teishoku

    Changing main dish depending on the day, often a highlight in local diners.

    Other favorites include karaage teishoku (fried chicken), or seafood fry teishoku with white fish, shrimp, or oysters — perfect for seafood lovers.

    These meals aren’t limited to diners and casual chains — teishoku is also served in many Japanese restaurants and even at hotel breakfasts.

    The Appeal of Teishoku

    What makes teishoku so appealing is its sense of completeness. With warm rice, a flavorful soup, a satisfying main, and a few smaller sides, the meal offers harmony in taste, texture, and presentation.

    People often say teishoku gives them a sense of eating “a proper meal.” It’s dependable — especially when you’re unsure what to choose from a menu.

    Popular with International Visitors Too

    In recent years, teishoku has grown in popularity among foreign travelers. Many appreciate it for being simple, healthy, and reasonably priced. For those whose image of Japanese food is limited to sushi or ramen, teishoku offers a deeper look into the flavors of everyday Japanese life.

    Home-Style Meals on the Road

    If you’re traveling and want to try local flavors in a casual setting, teishoku is a great option. In Hokkaido, you might find salmon-based sets; in the Kansai region, more simmered dishes reflecting dashi culture; and in Kyushu, teishoku featuring southern-style chicken like nanban.

    Every region adds its own twist, making teishoku a delightful way to explore Japanese food culture.

    A Taste of Home Away from Home

    Teishoku may not be extravagant, but each dish is prepared with care. The warmth of a complete meal, balanced nutrition, and the chance to experience regional ingredients — all make teishoku more than just food. It’s a glimpse into the heart of Japanese dining.

    Next time you’re looking at a restaurant menu in Japan, consider choosing teishoku. Within that one tray lies a quiet richness — the essence of a Japanese meal.