Shima, located about 30 kilometers south of Ise in Mie Prefecture, is renowned for its luxurious hot springs and superb seafood. There is no centralized area in Shima, with hotels and ryokan spread out, especially around the scenic Ago Bay. Given the abundance of high-quality accommodations offering exceptional meals, visitors are advised to dine at their places of stay rather than seeking out restaurants.
Shima is particularly famous for its Ise Ebi(伊勢海老), spiny lobster and oysters(牡蠣). The Ise Ebi is often served as sashimi or grilled, celebrated for its sweet and tender meat. The oysters, known for their freshness, are enjoyed raw, grilled, or in traditional preparations. Opting for meals at your accommodation ensures a premium culinary experience in Shima, making the most of the local seafood specialties.
- Specialty Dishes
- Ise Ebi
- Oyster
- Seafood
1. Waraku-和らく
- DJ Recommendation
☆☆☆☆ - Google Map
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338 188 672*38 - Description
La Mer The Classic, located at the Shima Kanko Hotel in Mie Prefecture, offers a luxurious dining experience with stunning views of Ise Bay. Known for its refined French cuisine, the restaurant is a popular destination for those seeking an upscale meal, whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The menu features a variety of dishes, including specialties like abalone steak, Ise lobster cream soup, and seafood curry that combines the rich flavors of abalone, crab, and shrimp. The elegant ambiance, attentive service, and carefully curated menu make it an ideal spot for special occasions or a refined meal. Breakfast options include a seafood omelette with abalone and shrimp, as well as the restaurant’s take on eggs Benedict, featuring a lobster-flavored Hollandaise sauce. The buffet offers a wide selection of pastries, fresh juices, and gourmet sides, all served in a setting that combines classic luxury with serene ocean views. For lunch or dinner, guests can choose from à la carte options or prix fixe menus, with popular choices like the tender abalone steak and various Ise lobster preparations. The restaurant is known for its impeccable presentation and high-quality ingredients, reflecting its legacy as a favored venue during the Ise-Shima Summit. While the price point is on the higher side, the combination of exquisite food, breathtaking views, and exceptional service makes dining at La Mer The Classic a memorable experience.
2. Hama-海人小屋 浜
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☆☆☆☆ - Google Map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/FPqYxoNzoKrfw7HdA - Parking MAPCODE
338 133 123*00 - Description
Hama is a hidden gem in Ise-Shima, offering a memorable dining experience with fresh seafood and a stunning coastal view. Despite the challenging and winding road to get there, the reward is well worth it. The restaurant specializes in local seafood, and visitors can enjoy dishes like assorted grilled shellfish, fried horse mackerel, and fresh sashimi, including the rich and flavorful Akappa shellfish. The friendly and attentive staff, including the personable owner, make the experience even more enjoyable by providing helpful cooking tips and explanations about the menu. The tranquil setting, overlooking a quiet sea, adds to the charm of the restaurant. While the location is a bit remote, those who make the journey are treated to a peaceful atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent service. It’s recommended to make a reservation, especially during busy times like Golden Week. Whether you’re a solo traveler or with friends, Hama promises a relaxing and satisfying meal, making it a must-visit spot for seafood lovers exploring the Ise-Shima area.
3. Miyamatei-みやま亭
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☆☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/7hBJWRBDNbunwAhv5 - Parking MAPCODE
338 248 821*23 - Description
Miyamatei is a popular restaurant known for its fresh and generous seafood offerings. The restaurant’s signature dish, the seafood bowl, features thick, fresh slices of sashimi that are both flavorful and free from any fishy odor, making it a delightful choice for sushi lovers. Many diners recommend making a reservation, as the restaurant may close earlier than expected if they run out of ingredients. The establishment has a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, with attentive service that enhances the dining experience. The menu offers a variety of options, including other seafood dishes like sashimi sets and fried oysters, all served with sides such as miso soup, chawanmushi, and dessert, adding great value to the meal. Located in Shima City, the restaurant provides a satisfying dining experience, whether for lunch or dinner, with its fresh, high-quality seafood and a pleasant, relaxed setting.
4. Tai-割烹 鯛
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☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/nb89K9KszcRHbFaXA - Parking MAPCODE
338 279 170*04 - Description
Tai is a renowned Japanese restaurant in Shima City, celebrated for its fresh seafood and traditional dishes. The restaurant offers a variety of set meals, with the Sea Delicacies Set being a popular choice. The meal includes sashimi, fried items, simmered dishes, and their famous tai chazuke (sea bream rice in tea broth). While the dishes are well-prepared and flavorful, some diners feel the price is slightly steep for the portion size. The tai chazuke, in particular, is highly praised for its aromatic broth and perfectly tender sea bream, though opinions vary on whether it’s worth returning for. The restaurant has a classic, refined atmosphere, making it a fitting stop for those exploring the Ise-Shima area, though the service has received mixed reviews. For those visiting, it’s recommended to make a reservation, especially during busy periods, to ensure a spot at this popular dining destination.
5. Daichan-お好みハウスだいちゃん
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338 251 726*71 - Description
Daichan is a casual izakaya-style restaurant in Shima City, known for its mix of teppan-yaki, okonomiyaki, and seafood dishes. On the night we visited, the seafood selection was limited, so we had to skip some items like kawahagi sashimi and opt for more readily available options like maguro and other light fish. The prices here are quite reasonable, making it a great spot for a laid-back meal and drinks. The namako (sea cucumber) vinegar was particularly enjoyable, though the drink menu could be more extensive and is a bit pricey. The restaurant primarily focuses on teppan dishes, but the okonomiyaki was somewhat average. The atmosphere is lively, often filled with locals, and offers a variety of dishes from seafood sashimi to classic Japanese grilled items. Despite its unassuming exterior, Daichan is a popular spot, especially for those looking for an affordable dining experience. However, it’s worth noting that the restaurant is a bit out of the way, making it more accessible by car than by foot.
6. La Pizzica-ラ・ピチカ
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☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/r5asw6h3r2jC6NSy9 - Parking MAPCODE
338 222 833*05 - Description
La Pizzica is a delightful Italian restaurant in Shima that offers exceptional cuisine, though the experience can vary. One visitor noted that despite making a reservation and traveling three hours to get there, they were disappointed to be seated in a cramped area with little space for their belongings, while others who arrived later were given more spacious seating. On a brighter note, the food, including the rich and flavorful carbonara and Margherita pizza, received high praise. The seafood carpaccio, made with fresh, seasonal fish from the Shima region, was another highlight. However, the restaurant’s popularity can sometimes lead to slower service, especially during peak times, so reservations are recommended. While the food is consistently praised for its quality, with dishes like tomato cream pasta and seafood pizza being favorites, the overall experience can be affected by seating and service, making it a good idea to plan your visit accordingly.