Kumano, located in the southern part of Mie Prefecture, is renowned for its rugged natural beauty and the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The area is extremely rural, with a very limited number of dining options.
As such, it is strongly recommended that visitors plan to have dinner at their accommodations, where they can enjoy meals made with fresh, locally sourced seafood, thanks to the region’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The seafood here is often prepared in traditional Japanese styles, such as sashimi, grilled, or in hearty stews, allowing visitors to savor the authentic flavors of the region.
[Dinner Restaurants]Kumano-熊野 - Google マイマップ
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1. Shikaroku-うなぎ料理 鹿六
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☆☆☆ - Google Map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/QX2xuHTGrUzkw5VJ7 - Parking MAPCODE
246 223 230*62 - Description
Shikaroku is a renowned unagi (eel) restaurant in Shingu, known for its historical charm and delicious dishes. The restaurant, housed in a traditional old building, exudes a rustic ambiance that adds to the dining experience. The unagi here is praised for its perfectly grilled exterior, which is crispy on the outside yet tender and fluffy inside. The sauce, with a balanced blend of sweetness and savoriness, complements the eel and rice beautifully. Many diners have noted the generous portion sizes, with some dishes even featuring a hidden layer of eel beneath the rice. Although the service can sometimes feel a bit brisk, the quality of the food, especially the unagi donburi and unagi ju, consistently impresses visitors. The restaurant’s proximity to Kumano Hayatama Taisha makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists, and reservations are recommended to avoid long waits. Shikaroku is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a traditional Japanese unagi meal in a historic setting.
2. Kumanono Azide Korokiiikki-熊野の味処紀伊ikki
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☆☆☆ - Google Map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/gEbApqCYQ9SLZVTA8 - Parking MAPCODE
246 163 764*41 - Description
Kumanono Azide Korokiiikki is a popular local izakaya located on the outskirts of Shingu City, along Route 168 near the Hashimoto intersection. The restaurant, connected to a nearby inn, features a spacious parking lot and a welcoming atmosphere. The interior is cozy, with a mix of counter seating, tables, and private rooms, all of which require shoes to be removed before entering. On a Saturday evening, the restaurant was bustling, so making a reservation was a good idea. The menu offers a wide variety of local delicacies, including fresh sashimi, grilled Iragi (blue shark), and their special salad, all of which were enjoyed by diners. The highlight was the grilled Iragi, which had a texture similar to chicken and a salty, savory flavor that paired perfectly with sake. Despite the busy environment, the staff were attentive, and the overall experience was enhanced by the personal touch of the owners, who apologized for the bustling atmosphere as guests left. The restaurant is well-regarded for its fresh local seafood and the warm hospitality of the family-run establishment.
3. Rahaina-Restaurant ラハイナ
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☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/g7XuXofdWht5CK9N7 - Parking MAPCODE
246 194 296*64 - Description
Rahaina, a cozy Western-style restaurant in Shingu, Wakayama, is known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious homemade meals. Despite a name that suggests a Hawaiian theme, Rahaina offers a traditional Western menu featuring dishes like hamburg steaks, croquettes, and omurice. The restaurant is popular with both locals and visitors, often drawing in a crowd, so reservations are recommended during busy times. Upon visiting, the “Special Lunch” stands out with its combination of a mini hamburger steak, fried shrimp, gratin, and various side dishes, all presented beautifully. Each item is prepared with care, resulting in a satisfying and filling meal. The ambiance is warm and homey, with attentive and friendly service, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. Rahaina is definitely a place worth revisiting, especially to try their other popular dishes like the creamy croquettes and highly praised omurice.
4. Ranban-お好み王国 らんばん
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☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
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246 194 491*30 - Description
Ranban, a popular spot for both casual dining and late-night bites, offers a satisfying and budget-friendly experience. The lunch special, a “Soba-Meshi Set” consisting of soba-meshi, miso soup, and salad, is priced at just 700 yen, providing great value for the price. Despite the seemingly small portions, the meal is surprisingly filling. The restaurant, known for its okonomiyaki, also serves other comfort foods like butter-flavored omurice, which is flavorful and well-prepared. Often frequented as a last stop after a night of drinking, Ranban’s generous portions and affordable prices make it a go-to for many looking to end their evening on a high note.