Niigata City, the largest city on the Sea of Japan coast, is a culinary treasure trove known for being Japan’s top rice producer and a hub for fresh seafood and sake production. The city is home to around 2,000 restaurants that offer a wide variety of dishes, making use of its abundant local ingredients. The main areas of the city are divided between the north side of Niigata Station and the Furumachi area west of the Bandai Bridge, with a distance of about 2 km between them, roughly a 30-minute walk. Each area is filled with dining options, so it’s recommended to choose a restaurant close to your hotel for convenience. Niigata’s food culture is deeply connected to its sake, with numerous sake izakayas where you can pair locally brewed sake with regional dishes. The city is also famous for its sushi, made with fresh fish from the nearby Sea of Japan, offering an authentic taste of coastal Japan. Another local specialty is Hegi Soba (へぎ蕎麦), known for its smooth texture and traditionally served in a wooden tray called a “hegi.” Additionally, Niigata Ramen (新潟ラーメン) is a must-try, featuring diverse flavors that reflect the region’s culinary creativity, often with miso or soy sauce-based broths. These dishes together highlight Niigata’s rich and diverse food scene, making it a top destination for food lovers.
- Specialty Dishes
- Hegi Soba
- Niigata Ramen
[Dinner Restaurants]Asahikawa-旭川 - Google マイマップ
Asahikawa-旭川
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1. Goro-五郎 万代店
- DJ Recommendation
☆☆☆☆☆ - Google Map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/PAecNYP8hSARTVgo7 - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Goro is a popular izakaya in Niigata known for its high-quality seafood and extensive selection of local sake. The restaurant is a favorite among both locals and visitors for its authentic Niigata cuisine, including dishes like fresh sashimi, Tochio fried tofu, and the signature “Goro Meshi.” The atmosphere is lively, with a spacious interior that can accommodate large groups, making it ideal for gatherings. The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, often recommending the best local sake to pair with your meal. Despite the bustling environment, the service is generally efficient, though some patrons have noted occasional lapses in staff communication. The food consistently impresses, with highlights including the plump, fresh oysters and the expertly prepared nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch). While the prices are slightly higher, the quality of the food and the overall dining experience make it worth the visit. Goro is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy the best of Niigata’s culinary offerings, and it’s a place many patrons find themselves returning to whenever they’re in the area.
2. Ikanosumi-いかの墨 新潟駅前店
- DJ Recommendation
☆☆☆☆ - Google Map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/tgHv25LCUeA5Qatf6 - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Ikanosumi, part of the Yonekura Group, is a popular izakaya in Niigata that consistently delivers a satisfying dining experience. Known for its fresh seafood, including exquisite squid dishes and an impressive selection of local sake, this restaurant has become a go-to spot for both locals and visitors. The menu features Niigata specialties like Tochio fried tofu and blackthroat seaperch, with standout items like the squid cooked in a rice cooker and the rich chicken paitan soup. The restaurant’s ambiance, particularly in the Niigata Ekimae location, is lively yet comfortable, making it ideal for both small gatherings and larger groups. The option to order à la carte allows diners to enjoy a variety of dishes, ensuring everyone finds something they love. The attentive service and the unique experience of choosing seafood for your appetizer, which is then steamed to perfection, add to the overall appeal. With a wide selection of local sake and a menu that showcases the best of Niigata’s culinary offerings, Ikanosumi is a must-visit for anyone in the area.
3. Tomizushi (Niigata station branch)-富寿し 新潟駅前店
- DJ Recommendation
☆☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/CvWTgXoaP8H4kyny8 - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Tomizushi at Niigata Station is a popular sushi spot known for its fresh seafood and attentive service. On a busy Wednesday evening, although the tables were fully booked, the counter seats were available, allowing for a smooth entry. The option to order sushi piece by piece was appreciated, as it allowed for customized selections and repeat orders of favorite items. The atmosphere is welcoming, making it an ideal place for both locals and tourists to enjoy Niigata’s culinary offerings. The sushi, particularly the fatty tuna and nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch), was praised for its quality and flavor. The restaurant also offers a variety of set menus and à la carte options, making it accessible for different dining preferences. Despite a few minor service hiccups, the overall experience was satisfying, with many customers expressing a desire to return. Whether for a casual meal or a special occasion, Tomizushi provides a reliable and enjoyable dining experience.
4. Shinbashi-そば処 新ばし
- DJ Recommendation
☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/bEKcap6hfDLVcy9C7 - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Shinbashi is a charming soba restaurant located in Niigata, known for its traditional atmosphere and unique use of Tasmanian soba flour. The restaurant, set in an old Japanese house, offers a nostalgic ambiance that draws in both locals and visitors. Upon entering, guests are welcomed into a warm, nostalgic space where they can enjoy a variety of soba dishes. The menu features items like the “Ten Seiro,” which includes crispy, freshly fried tempura such as zucchini, shrimp, eggplant, maitake mushrooms, and sweet potato, paired with a flavorful dipping sauce. The soba, known for its firmness and rich flavor, is perfectly complemented by the slightly salty dipping sauce. The attentive service, such as promptly refilling cold barley tea on a hot day, adds to the overall pleasant dining experience. While the soba itself may not rival the best domestic varieties, the unique international twist and the engaging stories shared by the owners about their experiences in Tasmania and other locations make this restaurant a memorable stop. Whether you’re visiting for the food or the ambiance, Shinbashi offers a delightful dining experience that blends tradition with a touch of global flair.
5. Niigata Ramen Magokorotei-吟醸味噌らーめん まごころ亭 新潟駅前店
- DJ Recommendation
☆☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/BheKXx4ssZEgEqvXA - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Niigata Ramen Magokorotei, located near Niigata Station, is renowned for its rich and flavorful miso ramen. The restaurant offers a variety of options, but their specialty is the “Ginjou Miso Ramen,” a dish that features a blend of miso from different regions, including Echigo, Shinshu, and Hokkaido. The soup is rich and thick, complemented by the addition of pork back fat, which enhances the flavor without overwhelming the palate. The ramen is topped with an array of ingredients, such as fried onions, minced meat, and a touch of yuzu, providing a unique and well-balanced taste. The medium-thick noodles have a chewy texture, making them a perfect match for the hearty broth. The restaurant is often busy, especially in the evenings, but the atmosphere is lively and the service is efficient. For those seeking a satisfying meal after a night out, this ramen shop offers a comforting and indulgent bowl that is sure to please.
6. THE COFFEE TABLE
- DJ Recommendation
☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/bLvNzSZ8Rz82nS1j8 - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
THE COFFEE TABLE, located in Niigata City, is a charming café tucked away on a quiet street, but don’t let its unassuming location fool you—it’s often bustling with customers. The café is known for its warm atmosphere, friendly staff, and delicious treats like their Earl Grey Basque cheesecake, which is delightfully creamy and full of flavor. The coffee is expertly brewed, with options like Ethiopian beans that offer a balanced, aromatic cup. The café’s decor is simple yet elegant, creating a serene space to enjoy a quiet moment. Despite being a bit tricky to find and lacking parking, the high quality of both the coffee and desserts makes it a must-visit spot for locals and visitors alike. The attention to detail in service and the warm, inviting environment make it clear why this café is so beloved by its patrons.
7. Sabou Nito-Ya-茶房 二兎屋
- DJ Recommendation
☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/6SR6EWXbV1CzssxaA - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Sabou Nito-Ya is a charming café located in Niigata’s nostalgic Furumachi area, within the cozy confines of Ninjou Yokocho. Operated by a warm and friendly owner who runs the place solo, the café offers an intimate and welcoming atmosphere, though there can be a wait, especially on weekends. Inside, the relaxing environment features a few counter seats and a couple of tables, perfect for enjoying their renowned large, fluffy shaved ice. The Tsubu-Tsubu Ichigo Milk, delicately layered with homemade strawberry syrup and sweetened condensed milk, is a standout favorite. Patrons also rave about the hotcakes, served with fresh fruit and perfectly brewed tea, all at incredibly reasonable prices, with most desserts priced around 700 yen. Sabou Nito-Ya is more than just a café; it’s a place where you can experience the genuine hospitality of Niigata, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the area. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet treat or just want to soak in the retro ambiance, this café provides a delightful experience.