Influenced by Chinese and Korean cultures, Fukuoka’s food scene has a distinct flavour profile from the rest of the country with some fascinating culinary creations.

After immersing ourselves in Fukuoka’s restaurants and yatais, we returned more knowledgable and extremely well-fed! And based on our incredible experience, we thought we’d write an introductory food guide for anyone visiting or planning on visiting Fukuoka, and wanted to learn more about the local food scene.

Exploring downtown Fukuoka

Local Delicacies in Fukuoka

Although the usual Japanese dishes are available all over Fukuoka, here are a few delicacies that originated here and are a must-try. Even if you’ve had them before.

Hakata Ramen

Hakata Ramen (or Tonkotsu Ramen) is perhaps the most popular dish from Fukuoka that you can find all over Japan, and even the rest of the world.

Tonkotsu Ramen was invented in 1937 by Tokio Miyamoto at his yatai in Kurume, Fukuoka. Over time, the dish underwent a transformation under the skilled hands of Katsumi Sugino, who inadvertently perfected its signature creamy broth. As the story goes, Sugino’s mistake – overcooking his original stock – yielded the velvety texture that has since become synonymous with Tonkotsu Ramen.

Hakata Ramen (or Tonkotsu Ramen) is the most popular dish from Fukuoka

Tonkotsu literally means “pork bones”, which make up the basis of any tonkotsu ramen broth. Interestingly, in Fukuoka, this dish is often referred to as Hakata Ramen, a nod to its historical roots in the city’s central district.

Hakata Ramen has been made extremely famous in and outside Japan thanks to Ichiran, the ramen chain. You can find packaged Ichiran Ramen in many supermarkets in Japan, and across Asia.

However, if you’re steering away from big chains, Hakata Ramen can be found in almost every restaurant or the ramen-ya in Fukuoka, especially around Hakata Station.

Personally, we really enjoyed the Hakata Ramen at Nagahama Yatai Yamachan (Nakasu) in Tenjin.

Nagahama Yatai Yamachan (Nakasu) served us one of the most delicious bowls of Hakata ramen in Fukuoka

Tetsunabe Gyoza

Gyoza are pan-fried, Chinese style dumplings, which are typically found in many Japanese retaurants and bars, and pair very well with ramen or even a beer.

The gyozas in Fukuoka are delicious!

However, the Fukuoka or Hakata, style gyoza are served in large batches on ceramic or hot iron pans and can be found at specialty gyoza shops around the city.

The name “Tetsunabe” comes from a yatai (now a restaurant) with the same name. Tetsunabe is located in Nakasu and Gion (the original shop).

Another fantastic spot for local gyoza is Wan Gyoza situated in Tenjin.

Wan Gyoza, Fukuoka

We highly recommend Wan Gyoza for its food and atmosphere. You can’t go wrong ordering their famous fried rice, gyoza, or ramen!

The fried rice is also a must-try at Wan Gyoza

Mentaiko

Mentaiko, also known as “Pollock Roe”, is a traditional Japanese seafood made out of pollock or cod roe. It’s characterized by its rich, slightly sweet, and umami taste flavour profile.

Mouth watering mentaiko at Hakata Seafood Uoden

While Mentaiko’s roots are rooted in Korean cuisine, over a century of evolution has given rise to its Japanese counterpart, which has become an integral part of Japan’s culinary landscape. Today, the majority of pollock roe used in Japanese cooking is actually derived from the country itself, rather than Korea.

A common variety is spicy mentaiko, which originated in the Hakata ward of Fukuoka. Its milder version is called tarako.

Mentaiko is a typical menu item at the yatai food stalls and izakayas and is usually served raw or seared. A great restaurant that we can recommend that serves mentaiko is Hakata Seafood Uoden.

Hakata Seafood Uoden is a great option if you wish to try mentaiko or fresh seafood in Fukuoka

The restaurant has no reservation system. So, come early and get a number. Waiting can be between 30–60 minutes.

Motsunabe

Motsunabe is the only dish on this list that we left out. It is essentially a hot pot consisting of beef or pork tripe, crisp cabbage, aromatic garlic, and spicy togarashi peppers. This stew is simmered in a savory soy sauce or miso broth, and served with rice or noodles.

Like most Asian hot pot meals, the pot is placed on portable burners at each table, allowing diners to cook their meal. Unfortunately, as we’re not big fans of tripe, we ended skipping out on trying motsunabe in Fukuoka.

Yatais (Food Stalls)

In the vibrant streets of Fukuoka, a culinary phenomenon can be found: Yatais, traditional food stalls that offer a taste of the city’s diverse gastronomy.

Come early and grab a seat at one of the yatais in Fukuoka

Yatais can be found in the busiest parts of the city, and are concentrated on the river in downtown Tenjin. But you can find less touristy yatais in other parts of the city too.

Many of the yatais in Fukuoka are located along the river

Street-side yatai stalls offer a chance to sample popular dishes like Hakata Ramen alongside other regional specialities in a lively and immersive atmosphere. Many have also adopted creative themes, such as Japanese-Chinese fusion or seasonal ingredients, making each visit a unique experience.

Yatais usually seat between 10–12 people

Unfortunately, from our experience, there is more focus on the experience than the food.

Our Experience Dining at Yatais

Unfortunately, our experience at the yatais didn’t quite live up to our expectations — the food was mostly overpriced and lacking in quality. However, we still believe they’re worth a visit, if only for the unique cultural experience they offer.

To make the most of your yatai adventure, consider arriving early to avoid crowds and have a look at the menu beforehand. Look out for unique or fusion dishes that other yatais don’t offer.

Studying the menu at a yatai in Fukuoka

In our research, we’ve found that many travellers have had similar experiences — some great, others not so much. However, with Fukuoka’s food scene having evolved significantly over time, you can generally expect a high standard of quality at most establishments.

What sets the yatais apart, though, is their rich history and cultural significance as an integral part of the city’s heritage. With that in mind, they’re definitely worth trying — even if the food isn’t always up to par.

One of the pleasures of eating at a yatai is that you’re always close to the action

Other Noteworthy Restaurants & Cafés in Fukuoka

There were two other establishments in Fukuoka that we think are certainly worth highlighting.

Gyukatsu Motomura

1 Chome-14-5 Daimyo, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0041, Japan

If you ever come across a restaurant that only has one thing on its menu, it’s often a sign of greatness. That’s Gyukatsu Motomura, a restaurant that serves some of the best beef tonkatsu we’ve ever had, at a very reasonable price.

Enjoying a delicious meal at Gyukatsu Motomura

Located in the heart of Tenjin, this restaurant caught our attention because there was a line of eager diners at 5:30 PM. And during busy hours, the wait can be as long as one hour. If you’re willing to brave the queue, the reward is well worth it.

Gyukatsu Motomura — A delicious tonkatsu restaurant in Fukuoka

The first time we stood in line, we had to go elsewhere because we were informed that the wait for at least an hour and twenty minutes. However, on our last night, we came early and stood in line for 45 minutes, and weren’t disappointed.

The beef cutlet was melt-in-your-mouth soft, with a succulent crust that left us craving more. If you’re looking for a truly exceptional tonkatsu experience, Gyukatsu Motomura is an absolute must-try!

Tonkatsu at Gyukatsu Motomura

Abeki

3 Chome-7-13 Yakuin, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0022, Japan

As we wandered through the charming Yakuin neighbourhood on a cloudy afternoon, we discovered a hidden gem — Abeki, a cosy coffee shop that offers a serene escape from the bustling streets outside.

Abeki – One of the most distinguished cafés we visited in Fukuoka

The moment we stepped inside, we were transported away from the busy intersection located just outside, to a tranquil environment. The tiny café’s minimalist decor – think simple white walls and a few carefully chosen furnishings – created a peaceful oasis that felt like a church sanctuary.

The minimal aesthetic vibe of Abeki

But what really sets Abeki apart is its commitment to quality. Each coffee is crafted individually by the owner, who takes great care in preparing every cup using a traditional drip pot. And when you add a slice of cheesecake to your order, you’ll be treated to a truly indulgent treat.

The coffee and cheesecake at Abeki

So take a break from your busy day and slip into Abeki’s peaceful world for a moment.

Food in Fukuoka

We hope this introductory guide to Fukuoka has been helpful in fuelling your appetite for exploration. Fukuoka seamlessly blends high-end culinary excellence with casual street food, offering a unique dining experience that brings together world-class Michelin-starred restaurants and humble yatais.

While we didn’t mention it earlier, Fukuoka is renowned for its exceptional sushi and sashimi options. As a port city with direct access to the ocean, it’s no surprise that Hakata and Tenjin areas are home to an impressive array of fresh seafood restaurants, offering a delightful selection of sushi to satisfy any craving.

You’re never too far away from fresh and delicious seafood in Fukuoka

If you have insider tips on must-try restaurants in Fukuoka, we’d love to hear them! Please feel free to share your recommendations in the comments below.