Aizuwakamatsu, known as the Samurai City, is a popular travel destination steeped in history, though it remains relatively small in size. Visitors staying in the Higashiyama Onsen area are generally advised to have dinner at their ryokan, as it offers the most convenient and immersive dining experience. While there are restaurants in the town center that serve traditional local dishes, these are scattered across different parts of the city, often requiring a car to access. Aizuwakamatsu is rich in traditional cuisine that reflects its cultural heritage, with notable dishes such as Wappa-meshi (わっぱ飯), a rice dish served in a wooden container called a “wappa,” topped with seasonal ingredients like seafood, vegetables, or meat. Another local specialty is Aizu Jidori (会津地鶏), a type of free-range chicken from the Aizu area, prized for its rich flavor and firm texture, often grilled or served in hot pots to highlight its natural taste. These culinary offerings are central to Aizuwakamatsu’s identity, providing a flavorful glimpse into the region’s history and traditions.
- Specialty Dishes
- Wappa-meshi
- Aizu Jidori
[Dinner Restaurants]Asahikawa-旭川 - Google マイマップ
Asahikawa-旭川
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1. Shibukawadonya-渋川問屋
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No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Shibukawadonya in Aizu-Wakamatsu is a historical restaurant known for serving traditional Aizu cuisine in a setting that reflects its long history as a former seafood wholesaler. Located near the Nanukamachi Station, the restaurant offers a unique dining experience where guests can enjoy dishes like nishin (herring) prepared in various ways, such as in kombu rolls, tempura, and sansho-zuke, along with other regional specialties like kozuyu, a local soup made with scallops, vegetables, and soy sauce. The building itself exudes a sense of nostalgia, with its Taisho-era decor and traditional Japanese elements like irori hearths and tatami rooms. The course meals, such as the Matsuri Gozen, provide a comprehensive tasting of Aizu’s culinary heritage, including delicacies like Aizu beef steak and seasonal mixed rice. While the food is traditional and hearty, the ambiance of the restaurant adds a layer of cultural immersion that makes the dining experience memorable. Though the restaurant can get busy, especially during peak times or on holidays, making a reservation ensures you can enjoy this slice of Aizu history and cuisine at your own pace.
2. Takino-田季野
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https://maps.app.goo.gl/DTuSV8SXhtJA7bNt8 - Parking MAPCODE
97 292 183*66 - Description
Takino is a well-known restaurant in Aizu-Wakamatsu, famous for its traditional wappameshi, a local dish where rice is steamed with various ingredients in a round wooden container. Many visitors come specifically to enjoy this specialty, as it offers a taste of Aizu’s culinary heritage. The restaurant’s charming, historical atmosphere adds to the experience, with its traditional Japanese architecture and decor that evoke a sense of nostalgia. Popular dishes include the Yokubari Wappameshi, which features seven different ingredients like bamboo shoots, salmon, and ikura, and the Ketobashi Wappameshi, which includes tender horse meat cooked with garlic and miso. The set meals often come with additional local dishes, like kozuyu soup and Aizu soba, making it a comprehensive dining experience. Whether visiting for a special occasion or simply to indulge in the local cuisine, Takino offers a satisfying and authentic taste of Aizu.
3. Teppanyaki Aizuya-あいづ家
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No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Teppanyaki Aizuya, located on Nanukamachi Street in Aizu-Wakamatsu, offers an elevated dining experience, combining the art of teppanyaki with the rich flavors of local Aizu ingredients. The restaurant is known for its live cooking, where diners can watch their meals being expertly prepared on a hot iron griddle right in front of them. Popular dishes include their hamburg steak, diced steak, and the delectable Aizu vegetables, all cooked to perfection. The meticulous care taken in grilling each ingredient, from the meat to the vegetables, highlights the natural flavors of the region’s produce. The menu also features a variety of set courses, offering a well-rounded meal that includes a selection of sauces such as grated ponzu, shiitake salt, and wasabi soy sauce. The restaurant’s atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, making it a perfect spot for both casual lunches and special dinners. Whether you’re enjoying the delicate flavors of grilled fish or the robust taste of Aizu beef, Teppanyaki Aizuya ensures a memorable culinary experience.
4. Katsuichi-とんかつの店かつ一
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No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Katsuichi is a cozy, long-standing eatery in Aizu-Wakamatsu known for its delicious sauce katsu-don, a local specialty. Located just a few minutes from the station, the restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere with a mix of counter and table seating. The signature dish features a perfectly fried, crispy pork cutlet, generously coated in a slightly sweet and savory sauce, served over a bed of shredded cabbage and steamed rice. The tender meat, combined with the crunch of the cabbage and the rich sauce, creates a satisfying and well-balanced meal. Diners can customize the flavor further with extra sauce available at the table. The menu also includes other comfort foods like katsu curry and a variety of side dishes, all prepared with care by the friendly, older couple who run the place. Whether you’re craving a hearty dinner after a day of exploring Aizu or simply want to try a classic local dish, Katsuichi provides a fulfilling experience that highlights the charm of regional Japanese cuisine.
5. Kiaji-季味
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https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZdUQ3MFuqPzEQ6tf8 - Parking MAPCODE
97 291 572*27 - Description
Kiaji, located on Nanokamachi Street in Aizu-Wakamatsu, offers a charming blend of traditional Japanese cuisine in a setting that evokes the ambiance of a classic Japanese restaurant. The lunch menu features a variety of options, including the Shokado Bento, Aizu Bento, Aizu Jidori Oyakodon, and Unaju. The Shokado Bento, priced at a reasonable 1,500 yen, includes a delightful assortment of sashimi, tempura, simmered dishes, grilled items, and more, all served with freshly cooked rice, which can be refilled at no extra charge. The tempura is particularly noteworthy, as it is served hot and crispy. The restaurant is run by a younger couple who maintain a warm and traditional atmosphere, complemented by the sound of koto music playing in the background. While the restaurant caters to tourists, especially given its location on a popular tourist street, it also attracts locals with its carefully prepared dishes and thoughtful service. For those interested in exploring local flavors, the restaurant also serves Aizu specialties such as horse sashimi, nishin no sanshozuke, and kozuyu, making it a great spot to experience the culinary culture of the region.
6. Potager-レストランポタジエ
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☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/nyQ5Yn5R8zX6u7TV9 - Parking MAPCODE
97 324 123*14 - Description
Potager in Aizu-Wakamatsu is a charming Italian restaurant that focuses on fresh, seasonal vegetables, offering a delightful dining experience. The restaurant’s interior is decorated with a playful vegetable theme, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The menu features a variety of dishes that highlight the region’s produce, such as the terrine with a light carrot dressing, which enhances the freshness of the vegetables, and the main course of crispy fried sea bream served with a lightly curried sauce and couscous, evoking Mediterranean flavors. The 3,500 yen lunch course offers excellent value, with every dish prepared meticulously. Desserts like the creatively presented melon cake and Italian pudding with salted caramel ice cream are both visually appealing and delicious. The restaurant’s location near the Byakkotai Memorial Hall makes it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the area. Potager is also known for its friendly service, with an Italian staff member providing warm and welcoming hospitality. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a full course meal, Potager offers a satisfying and health-conscious dining experience that even non-vegetable lovers might appreciate.
7. Aizumochicafe Yui-なぬか町茶房「結」
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No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Aizumochicafe Yui, located in Aizu-Wakamatsu’s historic Nanokamachi area, is a cozy café that specializes in traditional Japanese sweets, particularly the regional specialty “tofu mochi.” This charming spot is popular among locals and tourists alike for its warm atmosphere and authentic offerings. The tofu mochi, made from a mix of tofu and mochi, has a soft, delicate texture and is seasoned with a light soy-based broth, providing a comforting and nostalgic taste that resonates with Japanese culinary traditions. The café offers various set meals, including the popular “Minato Set,” which features an assortment of mochi dishes, seasonal vegetables, and fragrant hojicha tea. The café’s interior is small and intimate, with a rustic, traditional Japanese design that adds to its charm. The owner, a friendly and welcoming woman, enhances the experience with her warm hospitality. Aizumochicafe Yui is not just a place to eat but a destination to experience the heart of Aizu’s culinary culture in a peaceful setting.
8. CAFE KEI-KI
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☆☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/zxKjUSe5GAD14Xw38 - Parking MAPCODE
97 291 005*60 - Description
CAFE KEI-KI in Aizu-Wakamatsu is a charming and stylish café that offers a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing break. Located in an unassuming building that also serves as a tea shop, this café is known for its delightful selection of homemade cakes, pastries, and drinks. Visitors can enjoy a variety of options, including a cake set with coffee, where the cakes are freshly made, and the coffee is brewed to perfection. The café also serves unique items like French toast and a selection of flavored teas. The interior is tastefully decorated with a classic, warm ambiance, making it a welcoming spot for both locals and tourists. Despite its somewhat hidden location, CAFE KEI-KI has become a favorite for those seeking a quiet place to enjoy a sweet treat or a quality cup of coffee. The friendly staff and the option to take away pastries and cakes further enhance the experience, making it a must-visit for anyone in the area.