Morioka, the capital of Iwate Prefecture, is a lively city with many dining establishments that stay open late into the night. The city is celebrated for its “Three Great Noodles‐盛岡三大麺,” with dining options plentiful near Morioka Station’s east side and around Morioka Castle Park.
Wanko Soba (わんこそば) offers a unique experience where small bowls of soba noodles are served continuously until diners are full. Morioka Reimen (盛岡冷麺) is a cold, chewy noodle dish in a slightly spicy broth, topped with beef, kimchi, and a boiled egg, typically available at Yakiniku BBQ restaurants. Another local specialty is Morioka Jajamen (盛岡じゃじゃ麺), thick noodles with a savory miso-based meat sauce, cucumber, and ginger, customizable with various condiments.
- Specialty Dishes
- Wanko Soba
- Morioka Reimen
- Morioka Jajamen
[Dinner Restaurants]Morioka-盛岡 - Google マイマップ
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1. Azuma ya Hon Ten-東家 本店
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No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Azuma Ya Hon Ten in Morioka is famous for its wanko soba experience, where small servings of soba are rapidly placed in your bowl with encouraging shouts from the servers. Despite the simple flavor of the soba, the real thrill comes from the fast-paced challenge. Many visitors, like myself, travel from afar to test how many bowls they can eat, with 100 bowls being a common goal. Alongside the soba, there are various side dishes and condiments to change up the taste. The lively atmosphere and sense of accomplishment make it a memorable experience. For those looking for a more relaxed meal, the restaurant also offers excellent tempura and soba dishes.
2. Daidoen-焼肉冷麺 大同苑
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No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Daidoen in Morioka is a popular spot for enjoying both yakiniku and the city’s famous cold noodles, Morioka Reimen. The restaurant offers a range of dishes, from high-quality meats like Sendai beef to their signature Negi Tan Shio, where green onions are wrapped in tender beef tongue. The cold noodles here are a standout, with firm, chewy noodles and a broth that balances savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors, often served with customizable spice levels. The restaurant is clean, with excellent ventilation, making for a comfortable dining experience without the typical smoky atmosphere of a yakiniku spot. Though the prices are on the higher side, the quality of the food and the overall dining experience make it worth it. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak times, to avoid long waits. Whether you’re looking to indulge in some of the best meat in the area or just craving a bowl of cold noodles, Daidoen is a solid choice for both locals and visitors.
3. Pyonpyonsya-ぴょんぴょん舎稲荷町本店
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81 733 623*35 - Description
Pyonpyonsya in Morioka is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic cold noodles and yakiniku. The restaurant is well-known for its smooth, slippery cold noodles, which are perfectly complemented by a flavorful broth. The Bibim Noodles are another highlight, with a perfect balance of spiciness, umami, and sweetness. The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with a beautiful garden view, making it an ideal spot for both lunch and dinner. Despite its popularity, the service is efficient, and the food consistently lives up to its reputation. Whether you’re visiting for the cold noodles or the delicious grilled meats, Pyonpyonsya provides a memorable dining experience that reflects the best of Morioka’s culinary offerings.
4. Morioka Jaja Men-盛岡じゃじゃめん
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81 709 672*48 - Description
Morioka Jaja Men offers a unique dining experience with its signature dish, Jaja Men, a local favorite that stands out with its flat noodles and flavorful meat miso. The dish is reminiscent of Chinese Zhajiangmian but has its distinct taste, featuring a rich, slightly sweet miso that pairs perfectly with the chewy noodles. The restaurant is a convenient choice for late lunches, staying open until 4 PM, and it’s especially popular for its Jaja Men served with various toppings like garlic, ginger, and chili oil to customize the flavor. One of the highlights of the meal is the “Chītantan,” an egg soup made from the remnants of the Jaja Men sauce, offering a comforting finish to the meal. The service is friendly, and the prices are reasonable, making it a must-visit for those exploring the local food scene in Morioka.
5. Jajamen-ya Kojan-じゃじゃ麺屋 香醤
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No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Jajamen-ya Kojan, located on the outskirts of Morioka’s bustling area, is a beloved spot for enjoying authentic Jajamen, one of the city’s signature dishes. The cozy interior features five counter seats and three tables, creating a relaxed atmosphere for diners. The menu is simple, focusing primarily on Jajamen with three size options. The noodles are known for their wide, chewy texture, which pairs perfectly with the rich meat miso. Customization is encouraged, with various condiments available to adjust the flavor to your liking. The meal traditionally ends with “Chītantan,” an egg soup made from the remaining miso sauce and a raw egg, providing a comforting and satisfying conclusion. The restaurant is a popular choice for a late-night meal, and its friendly service and delicious food make it a must-visit for those exploring Morioka’s culinary scene.
6. Oote saki-魚家大手先
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Oote Saki, located in Morioka, is a small but popular restaurant, especially known for its fresh seafood dishes. Managed by the well-regarded Abe Fish Shop, this establishment offers a cozy atmosphere with a focus on quality and affordability. The daily lunch specials are a highlight, featuring a rotating menu that includes grilled fish, sashimi, and various seafood bowls, all at a reasonable price. The evening menu is equally impressive, with a “banquet set” that offers a variety of dishes and drinks at a great value. Despite its modest appearance, Oote Saki is praised for its fresh ingredients, especially the sashimi, which is a testament to the restaurant’s connection to a reputable fishmonger. This spot is perfect for a relaxed meal with colleagues or friends, offering a taste of Morioka’s local seafood in a welcoming setting.
7. Fukuda Pan Nagatachohonten-福田パン 長田町本店
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This is only for breakfast.
Fukuda Pan is a beloved bakery in Morioka, famous for its soft and fluffy koppepan (Japanese bread rolls) filled with a wide variety of sweet and savory ingredients. It’s very popular among locals, with people often lining up before the store opens. If you want to avoid a long wait, it’s recommended to arrive before 7 a.m. The bakery offers an overwhelming array of combinations, allowing customers to customize their sandwiches to their liking. Popular choices include the classic an-butter (sweet bean paste with butter) and savory options like chicken meat with vegetables. The bread itself is light and fluffy, making it easy to enjoy multiple sandwiches in one sitting. Despite the wait times, especially on weekends, the quality and taste make it worth the effort. Whether you’re trying the popular items or creating your own unique combination, Fukuda Pan offers a delightful experience that locals consider a must-try in Morioka.