Must-try Dishes
Seafood Rice - シーフードライス (savory rice dish) - A mix of rice cooked with fresh seafood such as shrimp, squid, and clams, seasoned with soy sauce. Locals often enjoy this comforting dish for lunch, especially at seaside restaurants where it’s made with a catch of the day.
Gyoza - 餃子 (pan-fried dumplings) - Juicy ground meat and vegetable-filled dumplings that are crispy on the bottom and soft on top. Commonly found at casual eateries, locals prefer to dip them in a blend of vinegar and soy sauce for an extra zing.
Beef Sukiyaki - すき焼き (hot pot dish) - Tender slices of beef simmered in a sweet soy sauce broth, often enjoyed with tofu and vegetables. This dish is popular for dinner gatherings, where friends and family cook and share straight at the table.
Chuka Soba - 中華そば (Chinese-style noodles) - Wheat noodles served in a flavorful broth, typically garnished with sliced pork, green onions, and a soft-boiled egg. It’s a beloved Yokohama specialty that reflects the city’s rich history with Chinese immigrants, especially at ramen shops.
Fried Rice with Mantou - 炒飯と饅頭 (rice with buns) - A unique twist of fried rice paired with steamed buns. It’s not unusual to see locals ordering this during late-night hours, enjoying how the soft buns complement the savory rice.
Asari Soba - あさりそば (clam soba) - A seasonal dish with buckwheat noodles served in a light broth, topped with fresh clams. Best enjoyed during spring when clams are plentiful, local diners flock to specialty shops for this dish.
Shirasu Don - しらす丼 (whitebait rice bowl) - A bowl of rice topped with fresh, tiny anchovies, often served with a raw egg on top. It’s a must-try for breakfast, and locally, many prefer to eat it with a drizzle of soy sauce or ponzu for a refreshing kick.
Desserts & Drinks
Yokohama Beer - 横浜ビール (local craft beer) - A refreshing craft lager brewed with locally sourced hops and barley. It's often enjoyed during summer festivals or at local izakayas, where beer is an essential part of social gatherings. By the way, don’t be surprised if it comes in a chilled glass, making it extra refreshing on hot days.
Mizudashi Coffee - 水出しコーヒー (cold brew coffee) - This smooth cold brew is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for several hours. Locals savor it in tranquil coffee shops, especially in the afternoons when it’s a perfect pick-me-up for a lazy day. A common ordering mistake is asking for it hot, which might confuse the barista, as it's usually served cold.
Matcha Parfait - 抹茶パフェ (green tea parfait) - Layers of matcha ice cream, sweet red bean paste, and fluffy whipped cream create this indulgent treat. Perfect for summer, it's served in a tall glass that showcases the vibrant green layers, often enjoyed at specialty dessert cafés. Locals typically enjoy it during leisurely weekend afternoons, indulging in the beautiful presentation.
Kasutera - カステラ (sponge cake) - This light, fluffy sponge cake made with eggs, sugar, and flour is a nostalgic favorite. You can find it during local celebrations like children's day, often enjoyed with a warm cup of tea. The unique twist here is the honey flavor, making it a delightful sweet addition to any tea time.
Shirozake - しろざけ (white sake) - A sweet and low-alcohol sake made from fermenting rice, often enjoyed during festivals. Locals drink this creamy beverage in small cups, especially during New Year celebrations, where it brings a warm and festive spirit. Just note that it’s less common to find outside of special events, so seek it out during the holiday season for authentic flavors.