When traveling in Japan, many visitors are eager to try authentic local foods—especially dishes unique to specific regions. Across Japan, each area boasts its own specialties, and some can only be enjoyed in their hometowns.
Nagoya is a perfect example. Known for its bold and distinctive flavors, the city has developed a culinary style known as “Nagoya Meshi (Nagoya cuisine).” Many of these dishes can’t be found elsewhere, making Nagoya a top destination for food lovers.
In this article, we’ll highlight some of the most popular and unique dishes from Nagoya and nearby areas. Be sure to try them when you visit!
Miso Katsu – Tonkatsu with Rich Miso Sauce
Nagoya’s cuisine is deeply connected to miso, and one of its most iconic dishes is Miso Katsu(味噌カツ)—a crispy pork cutlet topped with a thick, savory miso-based sauce. The sauce uses Hatcho miso, a local variety known for its deep, bold flavor.
Tonkatsu is familiar in other countries—similar to German schnitzel or French côtelette—so it’s easy to enjoy, even for those new to Japanese food. But the rich miso sauce adds a uniquely Japanese twist, blending East and West in one bite.
This miso-covered style of tonkatsu is exclusive to Nagoya, making it a must-try when visiting the city.
For the most famous Miso Katsu, head to Yabaton, a popular local chain with several locations around Nagoya, including near the main station.
Yabaton / 矢場とん
Location: 3-6-18 Osu, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0011
Website: Yabaton
Taiwan Ramen – Spicy Noodles Born in Nagoya
Despite its name, Taiwan Ramen (台湾ラーメン) actually originated in Nagoya. The dish was created by a Taiwanese-born chef who adapted spicy flavors from Taiwan into a ramen dish for a local Nagoya restaurant.
The ramen is topped with spicy minced meat and chili peppers, giving it a fiery kick that spice lovers can’t get enough of. While it’s definitely hot, the bold flavor becomes addictive, making it a popular late-night dish.
If you’re a ramen fan or enjoy spicy food, don’t miss trying the original Taiwan Ramen in Nagoya. The best place to try it is Misen, the restaurant that first served this dish. The Imaike location is the flagship store, but there are other branches around the city.
Misen / 味仙
Location: 1-12-10 Imaike, Chikusa Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 464-0850
Website: Misen
Tenmusu – Shrimp Tempura Rice Balls
Onigiri (rice balls) are a staple of Japanese comfort food, and Tenmusu (天むす)is a regional variation from nearby Mie Prefecture, now popular in Nagoya. This tasty snack combines a small shrimp tempura wrapped inside a rice ball, with the seaweed already applied—giving it a soft, slightly moist texture.
Though small, the crispy tempura coating and the springy shrimp inside make it surprisingly satisfying. It’s easy to carry, affordable, and perfect for eating on the go.
A popular spot to buy Tenmusu is Jiraiya, located in and around Nagoya Station. It’s also a great alternative to a standard bento for train travel.
Jiraiya / 地雷也
Location: B1F, JR Nagoya Takashimaya, 1-1-4 Meieki Chikagai, Nakamura Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 450-6001
Website: Jiraiya
Kishimen – Flat and Silky Noodles
Japan is known for its variety of noodle dishes—from ramen to udon and soba. In Nagoya, one local favorite is Kishimen (きしめん), a type of wide, flat udon noodle.
Kishimen is usually served in a soy sauce-based broth with a flavorful dashi. The noodles are thinner and wider than regular udon, offering a smoother, lighter texture that’s easier on the stomach compared to rich ramen.
One convenient and popular spot to try Kishimen is Sumiyoshi, located right on the Shinkansen platform at Nagoya Station. It’s an affordable, quick meal with plenty of local charm.
Sumiyoshi / 住よし
Location: 1-1-4 Meieki, Nakamura Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 450-0002, (Inside JR Nagoya Station)
Website: Sumiyoshi
Hitsumabushi – Grilled Eel, Three Ways
For a special meal, Hitsumabushi (櫃まぶし) is a must-try eel dish from Nagoya. The eel is grilled with a sweet and savory sauce, then chopped into bite-sized pieces and served over rice.
What makes Hitsumabushi special is the way you eat it. First, you enjoy it as-is. Next, you add condiments like wasabi or green onions. Finally, pour hot dashi (broth) over the rice for a comforting finish. One dish, three flavors.
Atsuta Houraiken is the most famous Hitsumabushi restaurant, though it can get crowded. Fortunately, there are many great places across Nagoya to enjoy this dish.
Atsuta Houraiken / あつた蓬莱軒
Location: 503 Kobe-cho, Atsuta Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 456-0043
Website: Atsuta Houraiken
Miso Dengaku – Tofu with Sweet Miso Glaze
Miso Dengaku (味噌田楽) is a simple but flavorful dish of tofu skewers grilled with sweet miso paste. While it’s found across Japan, in the Tokai region—including Nagoya—it’s often served with “na-meshi (菜飯)” (rice mixed with leafy greens and a salty seasoning), making it a local specialty.
The tofu itself is mild, but the miso sauce adds a rich, savory-sweet flavor. Paired with the lightly salted rice, it becomes a healthy yet deeply satisfying meal.
A well-known spot for miso dengaku is Suzunoya, known for its traditional taste. But you can also find similar dishes at many casual eateries around the city.
Suzunoya / 鈴の屋
Location: 1-11-1 Higashisakura, Higashi Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 461-0005 (Oasis 21 Underground, Sakae Park)
Ogura Toast – A Sweet Morning Tradition
One of Nagoya’s most charming food traditions is its kissaten (Japanese café) culture. Locals love visiting cafés in the morning for toast, coffee, and often something sweet. One standout menu item is Ogura Toast (小倉トースト)—a thick slice of toast topped with sweet red bean paste and butter or margarine.
It might sound unusual at first, but the combination of creamy and sweet is unexpectedly delicious. It’s like a Japanese take on jam and toast.
The best place to try Ogura Toast is Komeda’s Coffee, a popular café chain based in Nagoya. You’ll find branches all over the city, making it easy to enjoy this local breakfast.
Komeda’s Coffee / コメダ珈琲
Website: Komeda’s Coffee