1. What are some popular local dishes in Sendai that visitors should try?
Some popular local dishes in Sendai that visitors should try are:
1. Gyutan (beef tongue): Sendai is famous for its tender and flavorful gyutan, usually cooked on a grill and served with a dipping sauce.
2. Zunda mochi: A traditional dessert made of mochi (sticky rice cake) topped with sweetened soybean paste called zunda.
3. Sasakamaboko: A type of fish cake made from minced fish and steamed on bamboo skewers.
4. Hittsumi: A hearty noodle dish typically made with miso or soy sauce broth, vegetables, and meat or tofu.
5. Sasa kamameshi: A regional variation of kamameshi, a classic Japanese rice dish cooked in an individual pot with various toppings and seasonings.
6. Zajirushi salmon: A local specialty of grilled salmon marinated in a special sauce made with miso, sake, and other ingredients.
7. Rajioyaki: Grilled chicken skewers seasoned with a savory sauce often made from soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
8. Senbei-jiru: A soup made of rice crackers simmered in dashi (a type of fish) broth and vegetables like daikon radish and carrots.
9.Aisukurimu: The Japanese word for ice cream – but Sendai has its own unique flavor that includes azuki beans or matcha green tea powder.
10. Tsappei: Thick udon noodles served in a hot pot along with beef or pork slices, mushrooms, and other vegetables.
2. Are there any vegan or vegetarian restaurants in Sendai?
Yes, there are several vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Sendai. Some options include Nature Kitchen, a vegetarian cafe and restaurant; Neco Cafe, a vegan cafe and bakery; and T’s Vegan Ramen, which offers a variety of vegan ramen options. There are also many restaurants that offer vegetarian-friendly dishes or have separate menus for vegetarians, such as Indian restaurants like Bollywood Restaurant and Himshikha Indian Dining.
3. What is the best place to try famous Miyagi beef in Sendai?
The best place to try famous Miyagi beef in Sendai is at one of the Yagyu Kushiyaki restaurants, such as Yagyu Kushiyaki Tandoor or Yagyu-Kan. These restaurants specialize in local Miyagi beef and offer a variety of delicious dishes featuring the high-quality meat.
4. Are there any traditional Japanese izakayas (pubs) that serve local delicacies in Sendai?
Yes, there are several traditional Japanese izakayas in Sendai that serve local delicacies. Some popular options include:
1. Yagizu: Located in the city center, this izakaya specializes in Miyagi’s famous seafood dishes such as sashimi and grilled fish.
2. Kameya: This cozy izakaya is known for its wide variety of sake, as well as local dishes like beef tongue and fried oysters.
3. Ganko: With a rustic interior and friendly atmosphere, Ganko serves up a mix of classic pub fare and seasonal specialties like winter hot pot.
4. Nogi Sake Brewery Taproom: This unique izakaya is located inside a sake brewery and offers a selection of their own locally-brewed sake paired with regional dishes.
5. Ippachi: A popular spot among locals, Ippachi serves up hearty dishes like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and tsukune (chicken meatballs) along with a wide range of drinks.
6. Kanoya Shinbashi Noren-gai: This alleyway is lined with small izakayas serving up everything from sushi to grilled meats, giving visitors the chance to try a variety of local delicacies in one place.
5. Where can one find the freshest seafood in Sendai?
One can find the freshest seafood in Sendai at the Sakana Ichiba fish market, located at Sendai Port. The market offers a wide selection of freshly caught seafood from the nearby Sanriku coast, including oysters, sea urchin, scallops, and various types of fish.
6. Is there a street food scene in Sendai? If so, what are some must-try foods?
Yes, there is a street food scene in Sendai. Some must-try foods include:
1. Gyutan (beef tongue) – This is a popular dish in Sendai and can be found at many street food vendors.
2. Zunda mochi – A traditional sweet snack made from mochi (pounded rice) and topped with green soybean paste.
3. Okonomiyaki – A savory pancake filled with cabbage, meat, seafood, and other ingredients.
4. Yakisoba – Fried noodles with vegetables and meat or seafood.
5. Takoyaki – Ball-shaped snacks made of batter and diced octopus, cooked in a special pan and served with sauce and mayonnaise.
6. Taiyaki – Fish-shaped pastries filled with red bean paste or other sweet fillings.
7. Oden – A type of hot pot dish with various ingredients like fish cakes, tofu, and vegetables boiled in a light broth.
8. Ikayaki (squid on a stick) – Grilled whole squid served on a stick, often seasoned with soy sauce or salt.
9. Katsudon – A bowl of rice topped with breaded pork cutlet (tonkatsu), egg, onions, and other toppings.
10. Kakigori – Shaved ice dessert flavored with syrup or condensed milk toppings like sweet red beans or fruit preserves.
7. Does Sendai have any Michelin-starred restaurants?
Yes, Sendai has several Michelin-starred restaurants. As of 2021, there are four restaurants in Sendai that have been awarded one Michelin star: Shima Kitaichi Honkan, Sugimoto, Rinrin and Saryo Matsumoto.
8. What is the typical cost of a meal at a mid-range restaurant in Sendai?
The typical cost of a meal at a mid-range restaurant in Sendai is between 1000 to 2000 yen per person. This can vary depending on the type of cuisine and specific restaurant. However, this is a general range for average mid-range dining options in the city.
9. Which neighborhood in Sendai has the most diverse dining options?
The neighborhood in Sendai with the most diverse dining options is likely Kokubuncho, which is known as the city’s entertainment district and is home to a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes. It is also known for its izakayas (Japanese pubs) where people can try a range of different dishes and drinks. In addition, Kokubuncho has many international restaurants such as Chinese, Indian, Italian, and Korean cuisine, making it a great location for those looking for diverse dining options.
10. Is it customary to tip at restaurants in Sendai?
Yes, it is customary to tip at restaurants in Sendai. A standard tip amount is around 10% of the total bill. However, tipping is not mandatory and it ultimately depends on personal preference and the level of service provided by the restaurant. Some restaurants may have a service charge included in the bill, so it is always good to check before leaving an additional tip.
11. What types of fusion cuisine can be found in Sendai?
Some examples of fusion cuisine in Sendai are:1. Wagyu Beef Sushi: A combination of traditional Japanese sushi with high-quality wagyu beef.
2. Beef Tongue Curry: A curry dish made with a mixture of Japanese and Indian spices, topped with thick slices of tender beef tongue.
3. Peach and Cream Cheese Pizza: A pizza topped with sliced peaches and cream cheese, a unique mix of sweet and savory flavors.
4. Tempura Tacos: Fried tempura batter filled with fresh vegetables and seafood, served in a taco shell for a Japanese twist on Mexican cuisine.
5. Uni Pasta: Pasta noodles tossed with creamy sea urchin (uni) sauce, a popular fusion dish that combines Italian and Japanese flavors.
6. Matcha Cheesecake: A classic New York-style cheesecake infused with matcha green tea powder, creating a delicious blend of Western and Japanese desserts.
7. Okonomiyaki Pizza: A fusion of two popular dishes – Japanese okonomiyaki (savory pancake) layered on top of a crispy pizza crust.
8. Chicken Teriyaki Quesadilla: Grilled tortilla filled with teriyaki-flavored chicken, cheese, and vegetables, blending Mexican and Japanese flavors together.
9. Miso Carbonara: An unconventional take on the Italian carbonara pasta dish by using miso paste as the base sauce instead of eggs.
10. Salmon Tataki Salad: Thinly sliced seared salmon served on top of mixed greens with a citrus soy dressing, fusing traditional sashimi flavors with Western salad ingredients.
12. Are there any popular food markets or food halls in Sendai where one can sample a variety of dishes?
Yes, there are several popular food markets and food halls in Sendai where visitors can sample a variety of dishes. These include:
1. Sendai Asaichi: This morning market located near Sendai Station offers a wide selection of fresh produce, seafood, and prepared foods. It is also a popular spot for trying local specialties like grilled beef tongue and gyutan (beef tongue) croquettes.
2. Kokubuncho Yanagi Ichiba: Located in the Kokubuncho entertainment district, this market features around 40 food stalls selling everything from fresh seafood to street food snacks like takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers).
3. Kamitobayashi Omachi Market: This traditional market has been around since the Edo period and offers a wide range of fresh food items, including seafood, fruits, vegetables, and sake.
4. The Westin Sendai Food Hall: Located in the Westin Hotel shopping area, this upscale food hall features various stalls offering gourmet dishes from seafood to French cuisine.
5. Theepu Market: This modern food hall is located inside AER Building in downtown Sendai. Here visitors can find a range of international cuisines as well as traditional Japanese dishes such as sushi and ramen.
6. CoCoLo Marche: This open-air market takes place on weekends at Jozenji Dori Avenue and features local vendors selling fresh produce, crafts, and prepared foods such as yakisoba (fried noodles) and oden (hot pot dish).
7. Kuroneko Ichiba Market: Located near Tohoku University’s Kawauchi campus, this bustling market offers a huge selection of cheap eats from around the world including Chinese dumplings, Korean kimchi rice bowls, Thai curry dishes and more.
8.Yasuko Ichiba Marugoto Market: Nestled in the basement level of a department store, this market offers a variety of fresh seafood, meats, and produce as well as ready-to-eat dishes like sushi, tempura and barbecue.
13. What are some unique drinks or beverages that are popular in Sendai?
1. Zunda Shake: A creamy milkshake made with zunda, a sweet paste made from edamame beans.
2. Date Coke: Coca-Cola mixed with the local specialty, Sendai’s famous Kaki no Tane snacks.
3. Gyutan Horumon Sake: A sake infused with grilled beef tongue (gyutan) and beef intestines (horumon).
4. Gyutan Cola: A cola drink infused with the flavor of Sendai’s beloved gyutan.
5. Sasakamaboko Tea: A tea made from ground up fish cakes known as sasakamaboko, a popular snack in Sendai.
6. Kuri Shochu: A traditional Japanese rice liquor infused with chestnuts, a specialty of Miyagi Prefecture.
7. Suzume no Namida: A plum liqueur mixed with shiso leaves, creating a unique combination of sweet and sour flavors.
8. Yuzu Cider: A refreshing carbonated drink made from yuzu, a fragrant citrus fruit grown in the Sendai region.
9. Ishinomaki Beer: Locally brewed craft beer named after the nearby city of Ishinomaki.
10. Gari Juice: Made from pickled ginger, this juice is known for its health benefits and is often served in hot springs resorts in the region.
11. Iriuchijima’s Miso Oyster Soup Martini: A modern twist on traditional miso soup, using locally sourced oysters and served in a martini glass.
12. Kataribe Konbu Broth Tea: Konbu seaweed broth served as a tea to accompany meals or as a soothing drink during cold weather.
13. Yakuzen Umeshu: Plum wine infused with medicinal herbs and spices for added health benefits.
14. Are there any cooking classes or food tours available for tourists interested in learning about local cuisine?
Yes, there are several cooking classes and food tours available for tourists in many popular tourist destinations. These experiences can vary from half-day classes to multiple day immersive cooking experiences. Some of these classes and tours may also offer visits to local markets and farms to learn about ingredient sourcing and traditional food preparation techniques. Visitors can usually find information about these opportunities through tourism websites or by asking the staff at their accommodation for recommendations.
15. Are there any halal or kosher restaurants in Sendai?
Yes, there are several halal and kosher restaurants in Sendai. Some popular options include:1. Halal Kitchen Mussou
Address: 3-5 Chome Horgan, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0801, Japan
Menu: Japanese and Turkish Cuisine
2. Ichiriki Chaya
Address: Chuo-ku Tsutsujigaoka 4-8-12, Sendai 989-8526 Miyagi Prefecture
Menu: Traditional Japanese cuisine with halal options
3. Al-nafoura
Address: KOTODAI,NEXT TO EAST PARK AND WHILE CHILDREN’S CASTLE BUILDING AREA ON THE BASEMENT FLOOR SENDAI TOKYU INN SR.,Sendai Miyagi Prefecture
Menu: Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options
4. Cafe Runway
Address: Ichibancho Plaza Bldg. B1F.,Kitasendai Perhapsi224m Sandaimur Avenue Marius bruschetta Tel Ichibancho Plazan Bldg.B1F Takako more
Menu: International cuisine with halal options
For kosher dining options, the Chabad of Sendai can provide catering services for tourists and expats. They can be reached at [email protected] for more information. Additionally, some Japanese restaurants may be able to accommodate kosher requirements upon request, so it would be best to inquire beforehand.
16. Is it common for restaurants and cafes to have English menus available for non-Japanese speakers?
Yes, it is quite common for restaurants and cafes in popular tourist areas or in major cities to have English menus available for non-Japanese speakers. Many establishments understand the importance of catering to international tourists and therefore make an effort to provide menus in multiple languages. However, this may not be the case in smaller, more traditional restaurants outside of major cities. It is always a good idea to do some research beforehand or ask the staff if they have an English menu available.
17. Can you recommend some budget-friendly restaurants with delicious food options?
1. Shake Shack: Known for their tasty burgers, fries, and milkshakes at an affordable price.
2. Chipotle: Offers customizable burritos, bowls, tacos, and more with a variety of fresh ingredients.
3. Panera Bread: Freshly prepared sandwiches, soups, salads and bakery items.
4. Blaze Pizza: Customizable personal pizzas with unlimited toppings for one flat price.
5. Noodles & Company: Wide variety of globally inspired noodle dishes at budget-friendly prices.
6. Tacos El Gordo: Authentic Mexican street tacos at an affordable price.
7. TGI Fridays: Offers a varied menu with burgers, chicken dishes, and appetizers at reasonable prices.
8. Olive Garden: Offers endless soup or salad and breadsticks along with affordable Italian dishes.
9. Chick-fil-A: Famous for their chicken sandwiches and nuggets at an affordable price point.
10. Red Lobster: Seafood dishes like shrimp scampi and crab legs at reasonable prices.
11. Panda Express: Fast-casual Chinese food chain with affordable combo meals.
12. Denny’s: A wide variety of breakfast items available all day at budget-friendly prices.
13. Cheesecake Factory (Lunch Menu): The popular restaurant offers a lunch menu with smaller portion sizes at a lower cost than their dinner menu options.
14. Taco Bell: Fast-food chain known for their customizable tacos, burritos, and quesadillas at low prices.
15. P.F Chang’s (Happy Hour): Take advantage of discounted small plates and drinks during happy hour at this Asian-inspired chain restaurant.
16.Cosi Cucina Italian Grill (Lunch Specials): Offers delicious Italian cuisine during lunch hours including pasta dishes, pizza, paninis and more all within budget-friendly pricing.
17.Jimmy John’s (Unwich Option): Sandwich shop offering “unwich” wraps that replace the bread with lettuce, making it a low-carb and budget-friendly option.
18. Are there any themed restaurants or unique dining experiences worth trying in Sendai?
1. Samurai House Restaurant: This restaurant has a traditional samurai theme, with staff dressed in samurai attire and dishes inspired by samurai culture.
2. Sendai Station Airrail Pilot: A futuristic restaurant designed to look like an airplane cockpit, offering a unique dining experience while watching trains passing by.
3. Maeda no Seisho: This restaurant is designed after a traditional Japanese tea ceremony house, serving authentic tea and sweets in a serene atmosphere.
4. Sakanaya Kocho: For seafood lovers, this sushi restaurant features a boat-shaped counter and fish-shaped seats for a fun dining experience.
5. Monollion Lab Cafe: Located on the 31st floor of the Sendai Bank building, this cafe offers stunning views of the cityscape while enjoying creative dishes and drinks.
6. Yama Bistro Chabo: This mountain-themed izakaya serves hearty grilled meats and vegetables in a cozy log cabin setting.
7. Zunda Saryo: Known for its use of zunda (sweetened edamame) in various dishes, this casual cafe offers a unique twist on traditional Japanese flavors.
8. Joyful no Okite: A pirate-themed family restaurant with interactive performances and attractions to entertain guests while they dine.
9. Saiya Brewery & Dining Senrikiya: Set in an old sake brewery, this restaurant offers not only delicious food but also brewery tours and tastings for a full cultural experience.
10. Sendai Beef Noodles Village Plaza Jujujizake Street Food Court: A must-visit for noodle lovers, this food court offers noodles made from different types of locally produced wheat along with sake from nearby breweries.
19.Are there any local farmers’ markets or farm-to-table restaurants in the surrounding areas around Sendai?
Yes, there are several local farmers’ markets and farm-to-table restaurants in the surrounding areas around Sendai. Some popular examples include:
1. Shiogama Fish Market: Located about 20 minutes from Sendai by train, this market offers fresh seafood directly from local fishermen.
2. Michinoku Farm Market: This market is held every Saturday and Sunday in Izumi Ward, offering a variety of fresh produce from local farms.
3. Ganbaru no Sato Farmers’ Market: Located in Aoba Ward, this market features a wide range of locally-grown fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and meats.
4. Yamagataya Farm: This farm is located in Osaki City (about 50 minutes by train from Sendai) and offers farm-fresh produce as well as homemade breads and other baked goods.
5. Restaaurant Raika Ichikawa: This restaurant in Natori City (about 40 minutes by train from Sendai) serves up seasonal dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients.
6. Furukawakaen: This restaurant is situated on a farm in Tajiri Town (about an hour’s drive from Sendai) and serves meals made with organic produce grown on the premises.
Overall, the surrounding areas around Sendai offer many options for experiencing fresh, locally-grown food through farmers’ markets and farm-to-table restaurants.
20.How do the dining habits and etiquette differ from other cities/countries when eating out in Sendai?
In general, the dining habits and etiquette in Sendai are quite similar to those found in other cities and countries in Japan. However, there are a few unique customs and traditions that may differ from other places. Here are some key points to keep in mind when eating out in Sendai:
1. Use chopsticks: As with most regions of Japan, chopsticks are the primary utensil for eating in Sendai. Be sure to use them correctly and avoid crossing them when placing them down.
2. Say “itadakimasu” before eating: Before beginning a meal, it is customary to say “itadakimasu”, which roughly translates to “I humbly receive”. This shows gratitude for the food.
3. Cleanliness is important: Keep your table clean and tidy throughout the meal. It’s also considered polite to wipe your hands with a damp towel before eating.
4. Tipping is not necessary: Unlike in some Western countries, tipping is not expected or required in Sendai restaurants.
5. Share dishes: It is common practice to order several dishes and share them amongst the group, rather than each person ordering their own individual dish.
6. Eat everything on your plate: In Japanese culture, leaving food on your plate is considered rude or wasteful. Try to finish all of the food served to you, but if you can’t, it’s polite to ask for a small container to take any leftovers home with you.
7. Don’t stick chopsticks upright in your food: This is considered bad luck as it resembles incense sticks used at funerals.
8. Use the communal oshibori towel wisely: Many restaurants offer a small damp towel (called oshibori) for diners to clean their hands before or during the meal. Use this towel only for cleaning your hands, not your face or any other part of your body.
9. Drink sake and beer with locals: Sendai is known for its delicious sake and beer, so don’t be shy to try some at a local izakaya (traditional Japanese pub) and join in on the lively conversations with other patrons.
10. Pay the bill together: In group dining situations, it is common for one person to pay the entire bill and for others to reimburse them afterwards. This makes things more convenient for the staff and avoids any confusion or inconvenience.