Shirahama, a well-known resort town in Wakayama Prefecture, is famous for its stunning white beaches and rejuvenating Onsen, as well as its fresh seafood. The town’s prime coastal location ensures an abundance of marine delicacies, including fish, shellfish, and other seafood, often prepared in traditional Japanese styles such as sashimi, sushi, and grilled dishes. Although Shirahama is spread out with no defined town center, and dining options outside of accommodations are limited, the local restaurants and ryokan that do serve dinner offer exceptional seasonal seafood platters that showcase the region’s ocean bounty. Most visitors choose to dine at their Ryokan.
If you do decide to dine out, it’s recommended to drive to the various dining spots scattered across the area.
[Dinner Restaurants]Shirahama-白浜 - Google マイマップ
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1. Oozara Souzai Maaru-大皿惣菜 まぁる
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184 041 832*52 - Description
Oozara Souzai Maaru is a highly recommended dining spot in Wakayama, praised by locals and visitors alike for its fresh seafood and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant is often bustling with activity, even before its official opening hours, a testament to its popularity. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including some rare offerings like moray eel and grouper. The portions are generous, and the dishes are prepared with care, offering great value for the price. Notable dishes include the massive grouper collar, which impressed with its size and flavor, and the assorted sashimi, which highlighted the freshness of the catch. The staff, often described as friendly and attentive, contribute to the warm, hospitable atmosphere, making it a must-visit for those in the area. Whether enjoying the unique local specialties or indulging in more familiar seafood fare, diners are sure to leave satisfied.
2. Kiraku-㐂楽
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184 041 746*67 - Description
Kiraku, located in Shirahama, is a well-known local favorite for enjoying fresh seafood and traditional Japanese dishes. Despite its unassuming appearance, the restaurant draws a loyal crowd of both locals and tourists, particularly those seeking to try unique regional specialties like Kue (grouper) and other local delicacies. The menu is diverse, offering everything from seasonal fish dishes to more familiar options like tempura and tonkatsu. The signature Kiraku Gozen, featuring a generous assortment of sashimi, tempura, and other sides, is a popular choice among diners. The restaurant also offers special items like the Kumanoji Don, a seafood bowl served with grated yam and egg, adding a unique texture to the fresh sashimi. Despite the high quality of the food, some diners have noted that certain dishes, such as the tororo (grated yam) topping, can mask the flavor of the sashimi, so it’s recommended to add it gradually. The restaurant is especially busy during peak times, so reservations are highly recommended. While the prices are on the higher side, the overall experience, including the friendly and attentive service, makes it a worthwhile visit for those looking to savor the flavors of Wakayama.
3. Sushi Kappo Kosushi-寿司割烹 幸鮨
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184 041 479*71 - Description
Sushi Kappo Kosushi, located in Shirahama, is a well-established sushi restaurant with a history spanning 56 years. Known for its fresh seafood and traditional sushi offerings, the restaurant has garnered a strong reputation among both locals and tourists. During a visit, patrons can enjoy a range of sushi options, including the special nigiri set featuring eight pieces of expertly crafted sushi, such as squid, sea bream, aburi scallops, eel, amberjack, chu-toro, uni, and tamago. The restaurant also offers unique dishes like seared moray eel, which is softer and more tender than expected, resembling the taste of chicken. The dining experience is enhanced by the warm and friendly service, with staff providing recommendations and engaging in conversation with diners. The restaurant’s location near Shirarahama Beach adds to its appeal, making it a standout spot in a quiet shopping street. For those visiting during peak times, making a reservation is highly recommended to secure a spot at this popular eatery.
4. Restaurant Sakakura
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184 041 447*13 - Description
Restaurant Sakakura in Shirahama offers a delightful dining experience with a blend of French cuisine and Japanese influences. The restaurant has a warm, casual atmosphere and serves a variety of dishes that cater to Japanese tastes, including seafood-focused courses that are light and flavorful. During a visit, diners can enjoy beautifully presented dishes such as the bouillabaisse, which is a standout, and a comforting curry served towards the end of the meal. The restaurant is known for its attentive service, with staff creating a welcoming environment and even customizing dishes to suit guests’ preferences. While the presentation of some dishes could be improved, the overall experience is highly recommended, especially for those looking to enjoy authentic French cuisine in Shirahama. The restaurant is popular, so reservations are advised, particularly for evening meals.