What Food To Try in Shizuoka and Food Prices

Grilled Mackerel - Saba Shioyaki (salty savoriness) - Fresh mackerel is salted and grilled until the skin is crispy, perfectly highlighting its rich flavor. Locals typically enjoy it for breakfast alongside rice and miso soup, making it a satisfying start to the day.

Spicy Cod Roe Pasta - Tarako Pasta (unique twist) - This dish features spaghetti tossed with seasoned cod roe, olive oil, and a touch of seaweed, creating a savory, umami-rich flavor. You'll find it in many casual eateries, often enjoyed as a quick lunch option.

Shizuoka Oden - Shizuoka Oden (hearty stew) - A comforting stew of various ingredients like radish, tofu, and fish cakes simmered in a soy-based broth, it's served hot and often enjoyed in the evening. Try it at Oden stalls where locals gather, making it a fun social dining experience.

Green Tea Soba - Sencha Soba (local specialty) - These buckwheat noodles are infused with Shizuoka green tea, giving them a distinctive flavor and color. Enjoyed cold with dipping sauce during summer, they showcase the region’s tea culture beautifully.

Fried Rice with Seaweed - Nori Chāhan (surprising pairing) - This dish combines fried rice with crispy seaweed, delivering a delightful crunch in every bite. It's a casual favorite for lunch among locals who appreciate the unexpected but tasty blend of flavors.

Wasabi-Salted Grilled Rice - Wasabi Gohan (seasonal variation) - This rice dish is lightly salted with wasabi, offering a refreshing zing. Locals savor it during wasabi's peak season, adding a unique twist to traditional rice.

Pufferfish - Fugu (delicacy) - Fugu, or pufferfish, is skillfully prepared by expert chefs, as it can be poisonous if not done correctly. It’s a special dining experience, often celebrated during winter, blending culinary art with local tradition.

By the way, when dining out here, be mindful that many spots have a no-tipping custom; excellent service is already included in your meal.

Green Tea - 緑茶 (refreshing herbal beverage) - Shizuoka is renowned for its high-grade green tea made from young tea leaves, steamed to maintain that vibrant green color and delicate flavor. Locals enjoy it throughout the day, often served in traditional teacups during casual gatherings or with meals.

Sakura Mochi - 桜餅 (sweet rice cake) - Delicate rice cake wrapped around sweet red bean paste and often flavored with cherry blossoms; it bursts with a floral aroma. Typically made and enjoyed during the cherry blossom season in March and April, it's a beautiful nod to local culture and seasonal festivities.

Shizuoka Craft Beer - 静岡クラフトビール (artisanal brew) - A smooth and flavorful selection made from local ingredients, reflecting Shizuoka's commitment to quality brewing. Many locals enjoy this at microbreweries, especially in colder months, and it pairs wonderfully with local dishes—just don't mistake it for standard Japanese beers!

Kakigori - かき氷 (shaved ice dessert) - This summertime favorite consists of fluffy shaved ice topped with sweet syrup flavors like matcha or strawberry; sometimes, it’s even served with condensed milk. Shizuoka's warm summers see old-school stalls bustling with families enjoying this icy treat; try it at the popular seasonal festivals.

Matcha Latte - 抹茶ラテ (creamy green tea) - Rich matcha whisked together with warm milk, creating a smooth and comforting drink. It's a popular choice amongst locals during the colder months, often accompanied by traditional sweets—psst, don't be surprised if you see it on offer in cafes at all hours!