When planning a trip to Japan, most people immediately think of Tokyo and Osaka. But did you know that Nagoya is just as easy to reach? A quick Shinkansen ride from either Tokyo or Osaka takes only about an hour, making Nagoya the perfect destination for a foodie day trip!
Nagoya is famous for its rich and flavorful cuisine. The locals love bold and hearty flavors, and the city boasts some truly unique dishes that you won’t find anywhere else, such as Ogura Toast, Hitsumabushi (grilled eel rice), and Fried chicken wings. If you're looking for a quick but satisfying food tour in Japan, Nagoya is an absolute must-visit! Let’s dive into this ultimate “Nagoya Foodie One-Day Tour,” where every meal is a feast!
Breakfast: Chic Cafe in a Former Elementary School – The Cutest Ogura Toast!
For a stylish yet nostalgic start to your day, Yoake Cafe is the perfect spot! This
trendy cafe is housed in a former elementary school cafeteria, blending vintage charm with a modern aesthetic—ideal for Instagram-worthy shots!
One of Nagoya’s signature breakfast items is Ogura Toast. At Yoake, you can try their adorable smiley-face Ogura Toast, served with rich red bean paste and a thick layer of butter. The perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess will instantly put a smile on your face! Besides toast, the cafe also offers homemade pudding and warabi mochi, along with specialty drinks like banana oat milk smoothies and hand-dripped coffee to kickstart your day with energy and warmth.
Sumiyaki Unafuji
Lunch: Michelin-Recognized Hitsumabushi – The Ultimate Grilled Eel Experience
No trip to Nagoya is complete without Hitsumabushi, the city’s iconic grilled eel rice dish. And when it comes to the best place to try it, Sumiyaki Unafuji is a name you can trust. With over 25 years of history and even a Michelin Guide feature, this restaurant is famous for its exceptional "Aonagi" eel—a premium type of freshwater eel known for its superior texture and rich flavor.
The eel is grilled over charcoal, creating a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The signature way to enjoy Hitsumabushi is in three stages: First, enjoy it as is – savor the pure, smoky eel flavor.Second, Add condiments – enhance the taste with green onions and seaweed. Third, pour over dashi broth – transform it into a comforting ochazuke (rice soup).
For adventurous eaters, don’t miss the Grilled Eel Liver Donburi, a rare and limited dish that brings out even more umami flavors. If you love bold flavors, this is an absolute must-try!
Source:Sumiyakiunafuji Website
Sakateba Source: Instagram
Dinner: The Ultimate Tebasaki – Legendary Nagoya Fried Chicken Wings
To wrap up your Nagoya food journey, nothing beats Tebasaki—Nagoya’s famous deep-fried chicken wings! At Sakateba, they take Tebasaki to a whole new level, offering massive wings that are three times larger than usual! These wings come in two signature flavors: Secret house-made sauce – A savory-sweet glaze that enhances the juicy chicken. Special salt seasoning – A simple yet addictive flavor that lets the crispiness shine.
Not only do they serve amazing chicken wings, but their Chicken Nanban (Fried Chicken with mayo sauce ) is also a must-try! With crispy golden batter, rich tartar sauce, and a silky raw egg yolk on top, it’s an explosion of flavors and textures in every bite.
Nagoya’s rich food culture is something you have to experience for yourself! So next time you visit Tokyo or Osaka, why not set aside a day to "eat your heart out" in Nagoya? You won’t regret it!
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