What Food To Try in Nagoya and Food Prices

Hitsumabushi - Grilled Eel Rice Bowl - Marinated grilled eel served over a bed of rice, with a side of condiments for a customizable experience. Locals enjoy it in three unique stages, often sharing it with friends for a relaxing evening.

Tenmusu - Tempura Shrimp Sandwich - A delightful combination of tempura shrimp encased in a rice ball wrapped in nori. You can find it at street stalls, best enjoyed during lunchtime while exploring the vibrant markets.

Kishimen - Flat Udon Noodles - Thick, flat udon noodles served in a savory soy-based broth, often garnished with scallions and tempura. Perfect for a hearty dinner, you'll see families slurping it up at noodle shops across the city.

Miso Katsu - Miso-Glazed Pork Cutlet - Crispy pork cutlet slathered in rich red miso sauce, served with shredded cabbage and rice. It's a favorite comfort food usually enjoyed by locals for lunch, providing a satisfying balance of savory and sweet.

Tencha - Vegetable Tempura Rice - A vibrant mix of seasonal vegetables coated in a light batter, served on rice and drizzled with a soy-based sauce. Ideal for warm summer days, this dish is often ordered at casual dining spots known for their tempura skills.

Shirayaki - Simply Grilled Fish - Fresh fish, like mackerel, grilled until the skin is crispy, often served with a sprinkle of salt. It's commonly eaten for breakfast, and many locals enjoy it as a nutritious start to their day.

Hōtō - Thick Noodles with Pumpkin - Flat noodles simmered in a hearty broth with seasonal vegetables, especially pumpkin, creating a comforting dish. Traditionally enjoyed in colder months, it is often ordered in family-style restaurants where everyone shares.

Wakasagi Tempura - Sweetfish Tempura - Delicate sweetfish, lightly battered and fried until crispy, often served with a sprinkle of salt. This unique dish is enjoyed in late spring and early summer when the fish is at its freshest— locals swear by the delightful crunch and savory flavor.

Matcha Latte - 抹茶ラテ (rich green tea beverage) - Smooth and creamy blend of high-quality matcha, steamed milk, and a hint of sweetness. Locals enjoy this energizing drink in cozy cafes throughout the city, often in the afternoon as a pick-me-up during long workdays.

Miso Beer - 味噌ビール (savory craft beer) - Unique craft beer brewed with a touch of Nagoya’s famous red miso, giving it a hearty, umami flavor. Enthusiasts often sip on this at local izakayas, especially during the summer when it pairs perfectly with barbecue dishes.

Shiratama Zenzai - 白玉ぜんざい (sweet red bean dessert) - A warm, comforting dish of mochi dumplings served in a sweet adzuki bean soup, often garnished with a sprinkling of kinako (roasted soybean flour). This delightful dessert is traditionally enjoyed during winter, offering a warm hug on chilly evenings.

Kakigori - かき氷 (shaved ice treat) - Fluffy shaved ice served with a variety of vibrant syrups, like sweet condensed milk and green tea. Perfect for cooling down in the summer heat, you will find locals flocking to street vendors, particularly during festivals for an icy refreshment.

Ogura Toast - 小倉トースト (sweet red bean toast) - Crunchy buttered toast topped with sweet adzuki bean paste and often a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It's a comforting breakfast favorite, commonly enjoyed at cafes in the morning or as an indulgent midday snack. By the way, don’t confuse it with regular toast; the sweetness is a delightful surprise!