Nagoya, located in central Japan, is not just a transportation hub with access to Shinkansen and Chubu Airport, but also a culinary paradise for anyone seeking authentic Japanese cuisine. Unlike Tokyo or Osaka, Nagoya has its own unique style of Nagoya meshi, a term that refers to local specialties that are rich in flavor, hearty, and unforgettable. From Miso Katsu to Nagoya Morning, this city offers a wide range of traditional dishes that food lovers cannot miss. In this ultimate Nagoya Food Guide, we explore 10 must-try dishes that perfectly capture the essence of this city’s culinary heritage.
Miso Katsu (味噌カツ）
At the heart of Nagoya meshi lies Miso Katsu, a deep-fried pork cutlet coated with a thick, sweet, and savory red hatcho miso sauce. Unlike the typical tonkatsu found elsewhere in Japan, Nagoya’s version carries a bold, umami flavor that lingers on the palate. In The Ultimate Nagoya Food Guide, Miso Katsu stands out as a must-try dish, with the combination of crispy pork and rich miso glaze delighting both travelers and locals. Many diners describe it as the perfect balance between crunchy texture and red miso richness. This dish is more than just food—it’s a cultural icon of Nagoya.
Where to Enjoy the Best Miso Katsu
For authentic Miso Katsu, Nagoya offers several standout spots. Misokatsu Yabaton is arguably the most famous, known for its generous portions and perfectly seasoned miso sauce. Travelers can also enjoy Miso Katsu at local favorites like Atsuta Horaiken, which adds a traditional twist to the dish, and smaller izakaya meals where the experience is casual and cozy. If you are traveling by Shinkansen, visiting these restaurants is easy, and you can enjoy Nagoya meshi just a short ride from the station. Planning a lunch or dinner at these venues ensures a genuine taste of Nagoya food culture.
Hitsumabushi (ひつまぶし)
Another crown jewel of Nagoya meshi is Hitsumabushi, a grilled eel dish served over a bowl of rice. The eel is typically prepared in the Kabayaki-style eel method, with a sweet soy-based glaze that caramelizes over the grill, giving it a rich, smoky flavor. What makes Hitsumabushi stand out is the unique way it is eaten, allowing diners to enjoy the dish in three distinct ways: plain, with condiments, and with broth poured over the top.
A Legacy of Flavor Since 1873
Hitsumabushi has a long-standing history in Nagoya, with restaurants like Atsuta Jingu and Atsuta Horaiken serving it for generations. This dish embodies centuries of culinary tradition, maintaining the classic flavors while continuing to delight locals and tourists alike. Its historical significance makes it not just a meal but a journey through Nagoya’s culinary heritage.
How to Eat Hitsumabushi
When enjoying Hitsumabushi, the first portion should be eaten as-is to appreciate the pure flavor of the eel. The second portion can be enhanced with pickles and condiments, green onions, and wasabi, adding layers of taste. Finally, pour the provided dashi broth over the remaining rice and eel for a comforting, savory finish. This method transforms a single dish into multiple flavor experiences, making it a highlight of any Nagoya food guide.
Tebasaki (手羽先)
No Nagoya meshi list is complete without Tebasaki, the city’s famous fried chicken wings. Unlike typical chicken wings, Tebasaki are coated in a sweet-savory glaze and sprinkled with black pepper, creating a crispy and flavorful bite. The drumettes are small but pack a punch of taste, making them perfect for sharing in an izakaya setting.
A Gold-Winning Tebasaki Experience
For an unforgettable experience, try Furaibo or Sekai no Yamachan, two of Nagoya’s iconic Tebasaki chains. Both have won awards for the quality and flavor of their wings, offering crispy skin and juicy meat in every bite. Whether you enjoy them with friends or as a solo snack, these wings are a staple of Nagoya meshi.
Miso Oden (味噌おでん)
Miso Oden is a winter favorite in Nagoya, consisting of simmered vegetables, tofu, and fish cakes in a rich red miso broth. The bold miso flavor sets it apart from other Japanese oden dishes, providing warmth and comfort during colder months. Street food stalls and small local eateries offer authentic versions, where the deep miso broth enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. It is a dish that captures both the heart and soul of Nagoya food culture.
Kishimen Udon (きしめんうどん)
Wide, flat noodles define Kishimen Udon, a Nagoya specialty enjoyed in clear dashi broth with toppings like tempura, green onions, and kamaboko fish cakes. The flat texture makes it easier to slurp and absorb the broth, giving a satisfying mouthfeel. Traditional eateries serve Kishimen Udon in cozy settings, allowing visitors to experience authentic Japanese cuisine in its simplest and most flavorful form.
Miso Nikomi Udon (味噌煮込みうどん)
Another beloved noodle dish is Miso Nikomi Udon, where thick udon noodles are simmered in a hearty red miso soup with vegetables, chicken, and a raw egg. The umami-rich broth keeps the noodles perfectly tender while infusing deep flavor. This dish is a warm, filling choice for visitors exploring Nagoya during winter months. Popular restaurants such as Teuchimempomaruichi serve it piping hot, making it a must-try on any Nagoya food guide.
Taiwan Ramen and Abura Soba
For those craving something spicy, Nagoya offers Taiwan Ramen and Abura Soba, two unique takes on noodles. Taiwan Ramen is a fiery ramen dish packed with garlic, chili, and minced pork, while Abura Soba is a dry noodle dish coated in flavorful oil and soy-based sauce. Local favorites like small noodle shops around Mikawa Bay serve these dishes, providing a perfect balance of heat and umami flavor for adventurous eaters.
Ebi Fry (エビフライ)
Ebi Fry is Nagoya’s twist on deep-fried shrimp, featuring jumbo prawns coated in a crispy, golden batter. The dish is often served with tartar sauce, rice, or as part of a sandwich. In The Ultimate Nagoya Food Guide, Ebi Fry stands out as a must-try specialty, with Nagoya taking pride in highlighting the freshness of seafood from Mikawa Bay. This dish combines the crunch of tempura with the delicate flavor of shrimp, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists.
Tenmusu (天むす)
A convenient and tasty snack, Tenmusu is a rice ball stuffed with shrimp tempura. It blends the comfort of onigiri with the indulgence of tempura, creating a portable meal that is perfect for travel. Shops like Ganso Tenmusu Senju have perfected the recipe, balancing soft rice with crispy shrimp for a delightful bite.
Nagoya Morning (名古屋モーニング)
Nagoya has a unique breakfast culture known as Nagoya Morning, where coffee or tea comes with generous sides like buttered toast, eggs, salad, and sometimes Ogura Toast made with sweet red bean paste. Cafés such as Komeda Coffee popularized this ritual, making breakfast not just a meal but an experience. For visitors, it is a perfect way to start the day and immerse themselves in local culinary traditions.
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Conclusion
Nagoya offers a rich and diverse food scene that is unlike anywhere else in Japan. From the hearty Miso Katsu to the comforting Miso Nikomi Udon and the indulgent Hitsumabushi, this city is a haven for anyone exploring Japanese cuisine. Whether you arrive via Shinkansen or Chubu Airport, these ten must-try dishes provide a true taste of Nagoya meshi and will leave any food lover craving more. By following The Ultimate Nagoya Food Guide, you can experience authentic flavors, cultural history, and unforgettable meals that showcase the very best of Nagoya’s culinary heritage.
