Yuzawa Town, widely recognized as a premier ski resort destination, is also home to numerous hot spring ryokan, offering a perfect blend of outdoor and relaxation experiences. While the town may not have a specific signature dish, being located in Niigata Prefecture means that visitors can enjoy delicious rice, fresh vegetables, and the region’s famously high-quality sake. The town center is around Echigo-Yuzawa Station, where numerous restaurants are located on both the east and west sides of the station. Some establishments offer parking, but if you plan to indulge in the local sake, it’s advisable to explore on foot. For those staying in one of the town’s onsen ryokan, having dinner at your accommodation is also an excellent choice, allowing you to savor the local flavors in a more relaxed setting. Yuzawa’s thriving sake izakaya scene provides the perfect opportunity to experience the rich sake culture of the region, making it an essential part of any visit to this charming town.
[Dinner Restaurants]Asahikawa-旭川 - Google マイマップ
Asahikawa-旭川
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1.Yuzawa Kamakura-湯沢釜蔵
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☆☆☆ - Google Map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/kdS4xr2yMVCqMvmi8 - Parking MAPCODE
253 082 069*52 - Description
Yuzawa Kamakura is a charming izakaya located just a 5-minute walk from Echigo-Yuzawa Station, offering a cozy tatami-style setting with semi-private rooms. The service is prompt and friendly, making it a delightful spot to enjoy a meal. The rice dishes are exceptional, and their milt and maitake mushrooms come highly recommended. The extensive sake selection allows for a delightful tasting experience, perfect for those looking to sample various local brews. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with a diverse menu featuring savory appetizers like mushroom and green leaf dip, fishball soup, and Yukiguni Maitake Tempura, makes it an ideal place to relax after a day of skiing or sightseeing. The sashimi platter, showcasing the freshness of seafood, and the diverse selection of sakes, including freshly squeezed pure rice sake and special editions like Hakkaisan’s Haruzion, complement the flavors of the dishes perfectly. Grilled squid and fried oysters are particularly delicious, adding to the overall culinary experience. With its nostalgic interior reminiscent of traditional Japanese eateries and friendly interactions from the staff, Yuzawa Kamakura is a must-visit for anyone in the area, whether you’re seeking a satisfying meal or a memorable sake-tasting experience.
2. Hyotan Taki-ひょうたん瀧
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☆☆ - Google Map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Pem8sS9n8kHvv9zL7 - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Hyotan Taki in Echigo Yuzawa is a favorite for many visitors. Conveniently located a short walk from Echigo-Yuzawa Station, this cozy izakaya features semi-private tatami rooms, offering a comfortable and traditional dining experience. The menu includes fresh sashimi, tamagoyaki, and local wild vegetable dishes. Patrons appreciate the friendly service and the personal touch from the owner, who often shares her homemade pickled plums. The restaurant also boasts a good selection of local sake, making it a great spot to enjoy authentic Japanese flavors. Reservations are recommended due to its popularity.
3. Moritaki-茶屋 森瀧
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☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/B8mYc9gERXZkWeA86 - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Moritaki in Echigo Yuzawa is a well-known and popular spot, particularly for its signature dish, udon-suki. Despite not making a reservation, some diners have been lucky enough to get in, though it’s highly recommended to book ahead, especially during the winter season. The udon-suki, a hot pot dish filled with vegetables, fish, and udon noodles, is praised for its flavorful broth and generous portions. The addition of other dishes like maitake tempura and grilled trout further enhance the dining experience. While the food quality is consistently high, some patrons note that the service can be a bit detached, and the restaurant only accepts cash payments. Despite these minor points, Moritaki remains a top choice for those looking to enjoy comforting and well-prepared Japanese cuisine in a traditional setting.
4. Shokurakuan Kan’Ae-食楽庵 鼎
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☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/bKg5d8eSx3n8s57z9 - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Shokurakuan Kan’Ae in Echigo Yuzawa is a well-regarded restaurant known for its emphasis on local flavors and high-quality ingredients. Located just a short walk from the station, it offers a welcoming atmosphere with a mix of counter, table, and private seating. The menu features a variety of regional dishes, including fresh sashimi, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables, all paired perfectly with an extensive selection of local sake. While the food receives high praise for its freshness and taste, some diners note that the prices are on the higher side. The service is generally good, though there have been occasional comments about the pace of the meal. Overall, it’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors, especially those looking to experience authentic Niigata cuisine in a comfortable setting.
5. Yasuyoshi-保よし
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☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/58tkhgDtGeWP9AMC7 - Parking MAPCODE
253 082 184*81 - Description
Yasuyoshi, located near Echigo Yuzawa Station, offers a variety of traditional Japanese dishes, making it a convenient stop for both locals and tourists. The restaurant is spacious, with a mix of seating options including tables, tatami rooms, and a large parking area, which is rare in the area. Customers appreciate the quick service despite the occasional crowd, and the menu features hearty portions at reasonable prices. Popular dishes include the flavorful maitake mushroom tempura, the udon, and the well-seasoned katsu-don. The restaurant also caters to international visitors, with multilingual menus and a welcoming atmosphere. While the food is generally well-received, some note that it’s a reliable, no-frills option rather than a standout dining experience. Overall, Yasuyoshi provides a solid meal in a comfortable setting, ideal for those looking for a satisfying, straightforward Japanese meal.