10 Best Restaurants in Fukuoka, Japan: Your Ultimate Foodie Guide

Culture, History, Adventure - All in One Grand Epicurean Joy Ride!

Itadakimasu, fellow foodies! Was that too cheesy (pun intended)? But you can expect it a lot when you're in Japan's culinary paradise. (Itadakimasu is Japanese for 'bon appetit').

Fukuoka, often overlooked, shines as a top destination for true food aficionados. Nestled on Kyushu Island, this city boasts an unparalleled food culture catering to every budget and taste. Dive into our curated list of the finest restaurants, and don't miss our list of essential experiences in Fukuoka.

Sushi Taro

Chef Taro Fujii's labour of love - Fukuoka's beloved Sushi Taro - has stood the test of time.

Their stellar reputation is a result of Chef Taro's commitment to serving irresistibly delicious, carefully crafted sushi. They're uncompromising about using fine ingredients and traditional techniques, never failing to impress their patrons.

Sushi aficionados looking for an authentic, memorable dining experience MUST visit for the divine flavours, elegant plating and lovely ambience.

Must-Eat: Sushi Taro's calling card is fresh sushi, and the menu lets you relish a variety of seasonal sushi bites.

Nearby Attraction: Cherry Blossom trees at Maizuru Park. (map)

Recommended Post-Meal Activity: Shop at Tenjin Underground shopping mall. (map)

Address: Japan, 〒812-0037 Fukuoka, Hakata Ward, Gokushomachi, 5−8 グレイス祇園 １F (map)

Best Commute: Subway: Gion station

Timings: Mon-Sat, 6pm to 10pm; Sunday closed

o/sio FUKUOKA

Delight in charcoal-grilled meats, Italian cuisine, and complement your meal with exquisite natural wines.

With its chic decor and inventive dishes, o/Sio is a must-visit spot for all the food aficionados in the bustling city.

• Must-Eat: Their charcoal grilled meats are a dinner favourite.

• Nearby Attraction: Fukuoka Tower (map)

• Recommended Post-Meal Activity: Visit the Fukuoka Zoo & Botanical Gardens. (map)

• Address: Japan, 〒810-0001 Fukuoka, Chuo Ward, Tenjin, 1 Chome−10−20 天神イナチカ o/sio FUKUOKA B2F (map)

• Best Commute: Subway: Yakuin Station

• Timings: Open Daily, 11am to 3pm; 5pm to 11pm

Chikae Fukuoka

If you're a sushi and sashimi enthusiast, you'll love this charming restaurant for its traditional Japanese flavours. Fresh seafood from all over Kyushu is brought daily, and that captures the real essence of untainted Japan in the wide selection of mouthwatering recipes. The cosy eatery is a Fukuoma-favourite, and we can guarantee it will be one of your top picks whenever you're in the city.

• Must-Eat: Spiny lobster, ikizukuri (prepared live) - an unforgettable multi-sensory experience.

• Nearby Attraction: Kushida Shrine. (map)

• Recommended Post-Meal Activity: Enjoy a stroll in Ohori Park. (map)

• Address: 2 Chome-2-17 Daimyo, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0041, Japan (map)

• Best Commute: Subway: Akasaka Station, Fukuoka

• Timings: Mon-Fri, 5pm to 9pm; Sat, 11:30am to 2pm, 5pm to 9pm, Sun, 11:30am to 2pm, 5pm to 8pm

Yamanaka Akasaka

Located in the vibrant Akasaka district, this eatery is famous for its authentic motsunabe - a dish that's almost part of Fukuoka's identity. Motsunabe, a well-loved stew featuring assorted meat offal, is crafted in a traditional kitchen pot or a distinct Japanese nabe pot (nabe).

This culinary experience is completely different from anything else, as every bite is full of impactful and rich flavour.

• Must-Eat: Miso-flavoured Motsunabe.

• Nearby Attraction: Fukuoka Castle Ruins (map)

• Recommended Post-Meal Activity: Take a boat tour across Hakata Bay.

• Address: Japan, 〒810-0042 Fukuoka, Chuo Ward, Akasaka, 1 Chome−9−1 サニー赤坂店 2F (map)

• Best Commute: Subway: Akasaka Station

• Timings: Open Daily, 4pm to 11pm

Hyotan Sushi

Hyotan Sushi stands out as a favoured sushi spot for both locals and tourists in Fukuoka. With two locations, including one with a conveyor-belt style, both venues are highly recommended for an authentic, budget-friendly sushi experience. They offer spacious tables and counter seating, allowing guests to witness the skilled chefs at work. English and Korean menus are available. Due to its popularity, anticipate queues during peak hours or consider making a reservation through your hotel concierge.

• Must-Eat: Crab Croquettes

• Nearby Attraction: Marine World (map)

• Recommended Post-Meal Activity: Visit the Canal City Hakata shopping mall (map)

• Address: Japan, 〒810-0001 Fukuoka, Chuo Ward, Tenjin, 2 Chome−10−20 新天閣ビル 2F (map)

• Best Commute: Subway: Tenjin Station

• Timings: Open Daily, 11:30am to 2:30pm; 5pm to 8:30pm

HaiDiLao Fukuoka

Haidilao is one of the most popular hot pot restaurant brands from China, and equally loved in Japan. Its popularity can be credited to exceptional customer service and vast range of broths. If you're looking for a warm, cosy, engaging dining experience, Haidilao Fukuoka is your place. With delicious ingredients, a memorable and flavour-packed adventure is assured.

• Must-Eat: Any (or every) signature soup base that they have (about ¥5,500).

• Nearby Attraction: Canal City Theater (map)

• Recommended Post-Meal Activity: Explore Seiryu Park (map)

• Address: Japan, 〒810-0801 Fukuoka, Hakata Ward, Nakasu, 2 Chome−3−8FPG links NAKASU 8階 (map)

• Best Commute: Subway: Tenjin Station

• Timings: Sun - Thurs: 11am to 11pm, Fri - Sat: 11am to 1am

Restaurant Sola

Tourists should dine at Restaurant Sola in Fukuoka, an extension of the renowned Sola in Paris, established by Chef Hiroki Yoshitake in 2011.

With a background in high-end French cuisine in Japan, Chef Hiroki combines Gallic gastronomy with Japanese ingredients, offering a unique culinary experience. The daily 'menu du jour' showcases multi-course creations with distinct high-end French flair.

Despite the formal concept, the minimally decorated dining room exudes vibrant energy, and the picturesque view of Hakata port enhances the overall dining experience, providing a memorable sense of place.

• Must-Eat: Their daily 'menu du jour'.

• Nearby Attraction: Hakata Port Tower (map)

• Recommended Post-Meal Activity: Take in the sights at Hakata Pier (map)

• Address: Japan, 〒812-0021 Fukuoka, Hakata Ward, Chikkohonmachi, 13−6 ２Ｆ ベイサイドプレイス博多 (map)

• Best Commute: Subway: Nakasukawabata Station

• Timings: Mon-Sat, 6pm to 11pm; closed on Sundays

Maedaya

A charming, izakaya (or pub)-style eatery that's located in the centre of Fukuoka, tourists should dine at Maedaya in Daimyo for an authentic local experience, especially if they are curious about trying a regional specialty known as motsu-nabe, or gut stew.

This dish features a delightful combination of vegetables and cow intestines simmered in a rich miso broth. Maedaya, located on the second floor, is a cosy izakaya that epitomises local flavour, making it an ideal spot to savour this unique and delicious culinary offering.

• Must-Eat: Wagyu Beef Motsunabe with miso or soy sauce (¥1,694)

• Nearby Attraction: Rakusiuen (map)

• Recommended Post-Meal Activity: Shop at the Hakata Hankyu departmental store (map)

• Address: 3 Chome-26-5 Hakata Ekimae, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0011, Japan (map)

• Best Commute: Subway: 4-min walk from Hakata Station

• Timings: Open Daily, 11am to 2:30pm; 5pm to 12am

GohGan

What happens when a Japanese French chef and an Indian chef join hands? A mind-blowing culinary project - GohGan. Chefs Goh Fukuyama and Gaggan Anand's passion project is the hottest fusion restaurant in Fukuoka.

By ingeniously blending Indian and French cooking styles, this contemporary eatery takes innovation to another level. The jaw-dropping dishes are not just visual treats but also tantalisingly flavourful.

GohGan guarantees a dining experience like no other. Prepare to embark on a thrilling gastronomic journey here.

• Must-Eat: GohGan's signature dish, Black and White, which is onion crème, charcoal mousse, and urchin.

• Nearby Attraction: Sumiyoshi Shrine (map).

• Recommended Post-Meal Activity: Take a boat tour on the Naka River to enjoy beautiful views along the way.

• Address: Japan, 〒812-0018 Fukuoka, Hakata Ward, Sumiyoshi, 1 Chome−4−17 ０１０ＢＵＩＬＤＩＮＧ１Ｆ (map)

• Best Commute: Subway: Hakata Station

• Timings: Tues - Sun: 5pm to 12am, closed on Mondays

Hakata Uogashi

Hakata Uogashi is a must-visit for those seeking a traditional Japanese dining experience in Fukuoka. Specialising in sushi, sashimi, and grilled fish, the restaurant boasts fresh ingredients and prompt service.

The English menu ensures ease of ordering, and the attentive staff, including sushi chefs working in front of customers, enhances the dining experience. The delightful chawanmushi and delectable fish and clam soup make it a recommended choice for those exploring the diverse culinary options in the basement near Hakata JR Station.

• Must-Eat: Sashimi

• Nearby Attraction: Tochoji Temple (map)

• Recommended Post-Meal Activity: Explore the grounds of Sumiyoshi Jinja (map)

• Address: Japan, 〒812-0012 Fukuoka, Hakata Ward, Hakataekichuogai, 1−1 B1 (map)

• Best Commute: Subway: Hakata Station

• Timings: Open Daily, 11am to 9:30pm

Commonly Asked Questions

Does Fukuoka have any vegetarian/vegan restaurants?

Fukuoka has many vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants. Some popular ones include Sonu Sonu, Evah Dining, and Rota Cafe.

How much am I expected to tip in Fukuoka restaurants?

Tipping is not customary anywhere in Japan. The price of a meal typically includes any service charges and taxes.

Are there any traditional teahouses in Fukuoka?

There are some beautiful, traditional Japanese teahouses in Fukuoka. Some notable names include Shofuen, Rakusuien, and Yusentei.

How's the nightlife here?

Fukuoka has quite a vibrant nightlife and numerous izakayas (Japanese-style pubs), like Yorozuya, Watami, and Isshobin, among others.

What is the best time to visit Fukuoka?

The best months are Spring (March to May), and Autumn (September to November). Summers can be quite hot, and winters can be very chilly with occasional snowfall. However, Fukuoka is quite charming throughout the year, depending on your preferences.