Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Nagoya
Discover the 6 best local and traditional foods to try in Nagoya. Get AI-powered recommendations for authentic dishes, traditional cuisine, and the best restaurants.
Hitsumabushi
A local specialty, Hitsumabushi is grilled eel served over rice. Diners can enjoy it in three different ways: eating it as is, adding condiments, or mixing it with a flavorful broth. This dish showcases Nagoya's rich culinary heritage and is a must-try for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch or dinner
Cultural Significance
Eel is symbolic in Japanese culture for its health benefits, particularly during hot summers.
Where to try it
Tenmusu
A delicious fusion of tempura and onigiri, Tenmusu consists of shrimp tempura wrapped in rice and seaweed. This iconic Nagoya snack is perfect for a quick bite and showcases the city's love for seafood and rice.
Ingredients
Best Time
snack time or lunch
Cultural Significance
Tenmusu combines traditional elements of Japanese cuisine, highlighting the region's seafood and rice production.
Where to try it
Miso Katsu
Miso Katsu is a twist on the classic tonkatsu, featuring deep-fried pork cutlet slathered in a rich, sweet red miso sauce. This dish is beloved in Nagoya for its unique flavor and heartiness, making it a comfort food favorite.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch or dinner
Cultural Significance
Miso is a staple in Nagoya cuisine, and this dish exemplifies the region's bold flavors and culinary creativity.
Where to try it
Ankake Spaghetti
A unique local dish, Ankake Spaghetti features thick noodles served with a rich, thick sauce, often accompanied by ingredients like sausages and vegetables. This dish is a comfort food staple in Nagoya, offering a distinctive flavor profile.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch or dinner
Cultural Significance
Ankake Spaghetti reflects the post-war culinary evolution in Nagoya and is beloved by locals for its hearty and satisfying nature.
Where to try it
Kakikori
A refreshing dessert, Kakikori is a traditional Japanese shaved ice treat, often topped with sweet syrup, condensed milk, and various toppings like fruits or red beans. It's a popular choice during the hot summer months in Nagoya.
Ingredients
Best Time
summer
Cultural Significance
Kakikori is a nostalgic dessert for many Japanese, evoking memories of summer festivals and childhood.
Where to try it
Kintsuba
Kintsuba are traditional Japanese sweets made from sweet red bean paste encased in a thin layer of mochi. Often enjoyed with tea, they are a popular snack in Nagoya and represent the region's love for sweets made from adzuki beans.
Ingredients
Best Time
afternoon tea
Cultural Significance
Kintsuba is a part of Nagoya's rich confectionery culture, offering a taste of traditional Japanese flavors.