5 Best Restaurants in Kochi, Japan: Local Favorites & Hidden Gems
Kochi, Japan, is a hidden gem for food lovers. It offers a diverse culinary experience that blends traditional Japanese flavors with fresh local ingredients.
Kochi offers authentic regional cuisine from the vibrant seafood markets to cozy izakayas, whether you're seeking seared bonito or delicately prepared kaiseki meals. This charming city in Kochi Prefecture is home to restaurants that serve incredible dishes and provide a relaxing space to savor them.
Warayakitataki Myojimmaru
Warayakitataki Myojimmaru is a popular restaurant in Hirome Market, Kochi, renowned for its katsuo no tataki (seared bonito). The restaurant prepares this local specialty by grilling thick bonito slices over a straw fire, resulting in a beautifully charred exterior while keeping the inside tender and raw.
Visitors rave about its authenticity and freshness, making it a must-visit for those seeking to experience Kochi's signature dish. Warayakitataki Myojimmaru is a favorite among locals and tourists, and it is known for its casual, vibrant atmosphere.
Address: Inside Hirome Market, 2-3-1 Obiyacho, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture
Myojinmaru Honten
Myojinmaru Honten is a popular restaurant in Kochi. It is well known for its expertly prepared bonito tataki, a regional specialty.
The dish is seared over a straw fire, which gives the fish a unique, smoky flavor. Located in the Hirome Market area, it attracts locals and tourists, especially those eager to try the famous salted bonito.
It is often served with local yuzu vinegar for an extra citrus kick. The restaurant has gained a strong reputation for its authenticity and the fresh quality of its seafood.
Address: Yachiyo Building, 1 Chome−1−2 Honmachi, Kochi
Yairo Tei
Yairo Tei is a highly regarded restaurant in Hirome Market in Kochi. It is famous for its katsuo no tataki (seared bonito), one of the city's signature dishes.
This restaurant is especially popular with both locals and tourists. It highlights the freshness of the bonito catch and offers recommendations based on the day's quality.
With its casual setting and delicious seafood offerings, Yairo Tei is a must-visit for those wanting to experience authentic Kochi cuisine.
Address: 817-1 Koda, Kochi 780-8040, Kochi Prefecture
Yatai Yasubee
Yatai Yasubee is a popular gyoza restaurant located in Kochi City. It has been serving its signature dumplings for over 50 years, using a unique recipe incorporating Kochi-grown ginger and high-quality pork wrapped in thin, crispy pastry.
The dumplings are freshly made, flash-fried, and known for their umami-rich flavor. This cozy eatery on Yatai Road offers a relaxed outdoor dining atmosphere under traditional red tents, making it a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike.
It's open late into the night, perfect for pairing gyoza with beer or sake.
Address: 4-19 Hatsushirocho, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture
Tsukasa Kochihonten
Tsukasa Kochihonten is one of the most renowned restaurants in Kochi. It specializes in Tosa cuisine, which showcases the best local ingredients from the region's mountains and oceans.
Known for its Sawachi-ryori (extensive platter cuisine), the restaurant presents beautifully arranged seafood, vegetables, and other traditional dishes on large plates, reflecting Kochi's rich food culture. The restaurant has over 100 years of history and is conveniently near Harimayabashi Station, making it accessible for locals and visitors.
Tsukasa Kochihonten is particularly popular for serving dishes like Katsuo no Tataki (seared bonito), a staple of Kochi's dining scene.
Address: 1-2-15 Harimayacho, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture
How to Get There
Kochi, located on the island of Shikoku, is easily accessible by plane or train. Kochi Ryoma Airport is the primary gateway for international and domestic travelers.
Once in Kochi, the city's public transportation system, including buses and trams, will get you to most of the restaurants mentioned in this guide. For those visiting Tosa City or the outskirts of Kochi Prefecture, renting a car is recommended for the flexibility to explore local cuisine at your own pace.
Insider Tips
Book in advance: Popular restaurants like Warayakitataki Myojimmaru and Tsukasa Kochihonten can fill up quickly, especially during weekends and holidays.
Visit during off-peak times: To avoid crowds, try dining earlier in the day or later in the evening.
Don't skip the seafood: Kochi is famous for its fresh fish, particularly seared bonito and sashimi—make sure to indulge!
Children-friendly spots: Tsukasa Kochihonten offers relaxing spaces and menu options suitable for families traveling with kids.
Seasonal flavors: Many restaurants use seasonal local ingredients, so be sure to ask about any unique dishes on the menu.
Savor the Flavors of Kochi's Best Restaurants
From traditional Japanese dishes to creative fusion cuisine, Kochi's vibrant food scene offers something for every taste. Whether you're sampling local delicacies at Hirome Market or enjoying a fine dining experience at Warayakitataki Myojimmaru or Tsukasa Kochihonten, Kochi's best restaurants showcase the unique flavors of this coastal region.
With its warm hospitality, fresh ingredients, and a solid connection to tradition, dining in Kochi is an enjoyable experience. Now that you know where to find the best restaurants in Kochi, all that's left is to plan your visit.
Whether you're here for the seafood, the ambiance, or the local specialties, Kochi will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and heart.
