Japan is the kind of place where you can walk into the tiniest, most unassuming shop and walk out with one of the best meals of your life. This summer, I crisscrossed the country from Osaka’s bustling food alleys to Hiroshima’s comfort-food havens and ate my way through some unforgettable spots.
In no particular order (because ranking these would be cruel), here are my top 10 food experiences from Summer 2025, grouped by city so you can follow the trail.
Osaka – The Kitchen of Japan
1. Osaka Tonkatsu (formerly Chiyomatsu)
If you think tonkatsu is just “fried pork,” Osaka Tonkatsu will make you rethink everything. Perfectly crisp on the outside, juicy inside, and served with a mountain of shredded cabbage and that tangy-sweet sauce. The pork cutlet here has a depth of flavor that makes you want to close your eyes with every bite.
2. Tempura Makino Namba
Watching the chefs at Makino drop each piece of seafood and vegetable into bubbling oil is hypnotic. The batter is whisper-thin, crisp without greasiness, and somehow makes you forget that deep-frying ever had a bad reputation. Don’t miss the seasonal vegetables—they’re local, fresh, and addictive.
Bonus: Dekasan sandos
Hiroshima – Comfort Food Capital
3. Okonomimura
This is less a single restaurant and more a multi-level food paradise where each stall serves its own twist on Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. The noodles layered under the cabbage add that perfect chew, and the rich, savory-sweet sauce ties it all together. Bonus: the lively chatter from each counter makes you feel like part of the city.
Yamaguchi – Hidden Gem Territory
4. Soupless Dandan Noodle Kaisugi
Think of all the flavor of spicy sesame ramen, but without the soup—just noodles clinging to an intense, nutty-chili sauce. The kick is just right, and every bite is bold without overwhelming. This one was a total surprise find and became an instant favorite.
Fukuoka – Ramen and Beyond
5. Shin Shin
One word: broth. Shin Shin’s Hakata ramen broth is silky, porky, and dangerously easy to finish before you even get halfway through your noodles. The noodles are thin and springy, the chashu practically melts, and the atmosphere is classic Fukuoka—casual but buzzing with energy.
6. The Full Full Hakata
This place is all about bread—yes, bread in Fukuoka! From crusty baguettes to soft, fluffy rolls, everything is baked fresh and smells like heaven. Their mentaiko-filled bread is one of the most addictive things I’ve ever eaten.
Kumamoto
7. Komurasaki (Kamitori Center Branch)
If ramen had a comfort-food cousin, Komurasaki’s version would be it. Their garlic-infused broth is lighter than Hakata ramen but just as rich in flavor, and the toppings are generous. It’s the kind of bowl you think about days later.
Nagasaki
8. Lao Lee
A taste of Chinatown in Nagasaki. Lao Lee’s champon is a mountain of seafood, pork, and vegetables swimming in a creamy, flavorful broth. It’s hearty, warming, and perfectly represents Nagasaki’s unique blend of culinary influences.
Tokyo – From Markets to Neighborhood Haunts
9. Oedo 大江戸 (Toyosu Market)
Seafood so fresh it practically sparkles. Oedo serves pristine sushi in the heart of Tokyo’s famed Toyosu Market, and every bite reminds you you’re at the epicenter of Japan’s seafood scene.
10. 明川 (Akigawa) in Ryogoku
Ryogoku may be famous for sumo, but 明川 delivers a knockout in the culinary ring. Specializing in traditional Japanese dishes with a refined touch, it’s the kind of spot that makes you linger over every bite just to make the meal last longer.
Final Thoughts
Japan’s food scene is unbeatable—not because of flashy dishes, but because of the care, pride, and precision in every meal, from the smallest market stall to the busiest ramen shop. If you ever find yourself in any of these cities, take a detour, follow your nose, and try these spots. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
