Takayama, a historic city known for its well-preserved Edo-period merchant houses, has become an increasingly popular destination for foreign tourists. Despite the rise in visitors, the city’s dining options remain somewhat limited, leading to crowded restaurants, especially those serving the local specialties. Takayama is famous for its rich culinary traditions, with Hida Beef (飛騨牛) and Takayama Ramen being standout dishes. Hida Beef, a premium wagyu known for its exquisite marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture, is often enjoyed as steak, in sukiyaki, or grilled as yakiniku, offering an indulgent taste of the region’s finest flavors. Takayama Ramen, on the other hand, is a distinctive soy sauce-based ramen featuring thin, curly noodles in a light, clear broth, typically topped with chashu pork, bamboo shoots, and green onions. This ramen is celebrated for its simple yet rich flavor, providing a comforting meal that reflects the area’s culinary heritage. Given the popularity of these local dishes and the limited number of dining establishments, it is recommended to enjoy dinner at your ryokan if possible, ensuring a relaxed and fulfilling experience in this charming Alpine city.
- Specialty Dishes
- Hida Beef
- Takayama Ramen
[Dinner Restaurants]Takayama-高山 - Google マイマップ
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1. Kitchen HIDA-キッチン飛騨
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☆☆☆☆☆ - Google Map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/zm3vo6a5ttJmB2d26 - Parking MAPCODE
191 196 458 - Description
Kitchen HIDA in Takayama is a must-visit for those looking to savor premium Hida beef. This restaurant is great for travelers, as reservations can be made online, ensuring a spot to enjoy a proper steak dinner. The menu offers various cuts and portions, allowing diners to choose according to their appetite. For those who prefer lighter meals, the 120g sirloin is a popular choice, with perfectly grilled meat that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The garlic rice, with its lighter seasoning, complements the rich flavors of the steak beautifully. Many visitors rave about the A4 Chateaubriand, which is cooked to perfection, offering a tender and flavorful experience. The restaurant’s ambiance is a blend of historic charm and modern comfort, with friendly and attentive service that enhances the dining experience. Whether you’re there for a quick lunch or a more elaborate meal, Kitchen HIDA promises a satisfying culinary experience with some of the best Hida beef in the region.
2. Mizo-味蔵天国
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https://maps.app.goo.gl/WUPaPna6RRhCace89 - Parking MAPCODE
191 195 318*84 - Description
Mizo, located near Takayama Station, is a popular spot for savoring premium Hida beef, offering a memorable dining experience for both locals and tourists. Even before the restaurant opens, a line of eager customers forms, highlighting its popularity. The restaurant is known for its excellent service and attention to detail, such as allowing patrons to wait inside, which is especially appreciated during hot summer days. The menu features a variety of Hida beef cuts, including the flavorful red meat and well-marbled Harami, both of which are cooked to perfection, offering a tender and juicy experience. The restaurant also serves delicious side dishes like kimchi and perfectly cooked rice, enhancing the overall meal. The atmosphere is relaxed, with ample space between tables, allowing for a comfortable dining experience. While the prices are a bit on the higher side, they are justified by the quality of the food and the overall dining experience. Mizo is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Takayama, especially for those looking to indulge in authentic Hida beef.
3. Maru aki Hida Takayama Ten-丸明燒肉
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191 195 656*34 - Description
Maru Aki Hida Takayama Ten is a popular restaurant where the wait, often around 30 minutes, is well worth it. This establishment is famous for its Hida beef, offering a range of dishes that showcase the premium quality of the meat. The kalbi is particularly noted for its perfect balance of fat, while the liver, heart, and small intestine dishes are also highly praised. The restaurant’s kimchi and rice, which comes with flavorful minced meat, are delightful accompaniments. Hida beef sushi, a local favorite, is another must-try. The restaurant’s spacious parking area is convenient, though the clientele is largely made up of international tourists, with many conversations heard in Italian, Chinese, and other languages. Despite the busy atmosphere, the staff is known for their kindness, and the meal portions are generous, making for a satisfying dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying the tender fillet or the flavorful harami, every bite at Maru Aki offers a taste of the finest Hida beef, making it a must-visit for anyone in Takayama.
4. Menyato To-麺屋とと
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No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Menyato To in Takayama offers a delightful take on local ramen, with their High Mountain Chinese noodles being a particular favorite. The ramen, featuring a clear, flavorful broth with a hint of seafood, strikes a balance between lightness and depth, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a well-rounded, delicate flavor. The restaurant, slightly off the main thoroughfares, provides a more relaxed dining experience compared to other popular ramen spots in the area, often with shorter wait times. The atmosphere is cozy and traditional, adding to the overall experience. While the menu is straightforward, each dish is crafted with care, and the quality of the ingredients shines through, particularly in the rich, well-marinated char siu and the carefully prepared noodles. Many patrons appreciate the combination of traditional flavors with the chef’s unique touch, making it a standout choice in Takayama for ramen enthusiasts.
5. Kyouya-京屋
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191 226 163*15 - Description
Kyouya is a popular spot in Takayama, especially for those looking to enjoy local specialties such as Hida beef and Hoba miso. The restaurant, located in a charming old building, offers a cozy atmosphere with traditional Japanese decor, including a hearth that adds to the ambiance. Although prices reflect its touristy location, the food quality justifies the cost, especially the Hida beef, which is perfectly paired with the rich flavors of Hoba miso, enhancing the dining experience. Despite mixed reviews, with some finding the meat less tender than expected, many diners appreciate the authenticity of the dishes, such as the various local side dishes like “koroi” (small potatoes) and “komo tofu,” which are full of regional flavors. The restaurant can get crowded, especially during peak travel times like Golden Week, so making a reservation is recommended. Overall, Kyouya offers a satisfying and immersive taste of Takayama’s culinary traditions, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone exploring the area.