Why Fukuoka Is For Foodies

From main course to dessert, Fukuoka City is celebrated as a veritable food haven!

Its location on the northern shore of Kyushu made it a gateway for Chinese and Korean influences to enter the country, which inspired the emergence of a unique Fukuoka cuisine that has since become popular all throughout Japan. Today, Hakata, a Fukuoka merchant town famous for its arts and crafts, is also widely used to refer to Fukuoka food, language, and culture. 

One of the most well-known foods to come out of Fukuoka is mizutaki, Hakata’s specialty chicken hot pot. Experience a journey of taste and textures as the wholesome dish is gradually elevated with the addition of other fresh ingredients throughout the meal. Do not miss this if you are at Hakata Mizutaki Toriden restaurant!

Fukuoka is not only known for its Hakata ramen, it’s also heaven for seafood lovers. Locals like their mackerel prepared in various ways–including raw with a hint of sesame goodness. At Seimon Barai Izakaya, you can rest assured that the quality of its dishes is uncompromised.

Cafes are very popular in Fukuoka, and one of the best things you can do is to wind down with some chai at Chai Tea Heron. This humble little space is filled with various kinds of chai blends. I love the fact that the owner cultivates chai from over 10 different types of spices (which is different from usual methods) and introduces new menus frequently. 

Chai Tea Heron also offers a great opportunity for foreign travelers to interact with locals in a relaxing ambiance while enjoying an awesome beverage.

Finally, while the night is still young, savor the fabled street food in open-air food stands called yatai. These food stalls can accommodate 10 people at most, which means it will be an intimate experience, almost like going to a sushiya (sushi restaurant). Yatai usually serves traditional dishes like yakitori (skewered chicken), ramen (noodles), and oden (one-pot dish). It’s also popular amongst working folks looking to unwind.

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Kyushu
https://www.japan.travel/en/destinations/kyushu/