1. What are some must-try local dishes in Takayama?
– Hida beef: This premium type of beef is only produced in the Hida region and is known for its high marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor. It can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, such as grilled, sukiyaki, or shabu-shabu.– Takayama ramen: Unlike the traditional ramen found in other parts of Japan, Takayama ramen has a thicker broth made with soy sauce and miso. It also typically includes local ingredients like Hida pork and vegetables.
– Gohei-mochi: This grilled rice cake is coated in a sweet and savory miso sauce made with local ingredients like walnuts or sesame seeds.
– Sarubobo manju: These small steamed buns are shaped like monkeys, which are considered to be a good luck charm in Takayama. They are typically filled with red bean paste or chestnut paste.
– Hoba miso: A regional specialty dish that consists of grilled meat (usually Hida beef), vegetables, tofu, and miso paste cooked on a hoba leaf (magnolia leaf).
– Sake: Takayama is surrounded by mountains and rivers that provide clear water for brewing sake. Try some locally-made sake at one of the many breweries in the town.
2. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in the area?
Unfortunately, I was not able to find any Michelin-starred restaurants in the general area. The closest Michelin-starred restaurant is Balloo Restaurant in Bingham, about 22 miles away from Newark.
3. What is the best place to try traditional Hida beef in Takayama?
The best place to try traditional Hida beef in Takayama is at a local restaurant or izakaya (traditional Japanese pub) that specializes in the cuisine. Some popular options include Maruaki and Sakura, both of which offer high-quality Hida beef dishes such as sukiyaki and grilled steak. Another option is to visit the Miyagawa Morning Market and sample Hida beef skewers cooked right in front of you by local vendors.
4. Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly dining options in the city?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan-friendly dining options in the city. Some popular restaurants include Gracias Madre, a plant-based Mexican restaurant; Crossroads Kitchen, a vegan fine-dining restaurant; and Café Gratitude, which offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes. There are also many other restaurants that offer vegetarian or vegan options on their menu. Additionally, there are several health food stores and markets where vegetarians and vegans can find groceries and ingredients for cooking at home.
5. How easy is it to find English menus at local restaurants?
It is not very easy to find English menus at local restaurants, as most of them cater to a local clientele and the menu is often in the local language. However, in popular tourist areas or restaurants that cater to international customers, English menus may be available. It is always helpful to learn a few basic phrases in the local language to communicate with restaurant staff and understand the menu better.
6. Is making a reservation recommended for popular restaurants in Takayama?
Yes, it is recommended to make a reservation for popular restaurants in Takayama, especially during peak tourist seasons or holiday periods. This will ensure that you have a guaranteed seat and avoid potentially long wait times. Some restaurants may also have limited seating due to their small size, making reservations even more necessary.
7. Are there any food markets or street food vendors worth checking out in the city?
Some popular food markets and street food vendors in Calgary include:– Calgary Farmers’ Market: This year-round market showcases local produce, meats, and artisanal goods.
– Inglewood Night Market: This monthly event in the trendy Inglewood neighborhood features food trucks, live music, and vendors selling unique items.
– International Avenue Food Tour: Take a tour of this vibrant street known for its diverse range of international cuisine, from Mexican to Vietnamese.
– The Alley Food Vendors: Located downtown, this outdoor food court offers a variety of dishes from different vendors, including Canadian comfort food and Sri Lankan cuisine.
– YYC Food Trucks: Keep an eye out for these roaming food trucks offering everything from classic poutine to Korean-style tacos.
8. What are some popular local specialties, besides Hida beef, that visitors should try?
1) Takayama Ramen – a local variation of ramen with thick soy-based broth and chewy noodles
2) Mitarashi Dango – skewered rice dumplings grilled and glazed in sweet soy sauce
3) Sobamaki – thin buckwheat noodles rolled with various toppings, served hot or cold
4) Hida Soba – locally produced soba noodles made with 100% buckwheat flour
5) Shingen Mochi – soft mochi balls filled with red bean paste and covered in kinako (roasted soybean flour)
6) Gohei-mochi – grilled rice cakes coated in a special miso-based sauce
7) Hoba Miso – a traditional dish where miso paste is spread onto a hoba leaf (magnolia leaf), topped with various ingredients, and broiled over charcoal
8) Wasakana (river fish dishes) – popular river fish such as ayu (sweetfish), amago (red-spotted masu salmon), and iwana (char fish) are often prepared grilled or sashimi-style at local restaurants.
9. Can you recommend any good sushi places in Takayama?
Yes, here are a few recommendations for good sushi places in Takayama:
1. Sushi Haru – A highly rated sushi restaurant known for its fresh and high-quality ingredients.
2. Musashi Sushi – This cozy and welcoming sushi spot offers traditional hand-rolled sushi and creative fusion rolls.
3. Sushigoya – Another popular choice for authentic and delicious sushi in Takayama.
4. Hachikura – A casual yet refined spot for a wide selection of traditional Japanese dishes, including sushi.
5. Enzo – A modern and stylish restaurant with a diverse menu including both traditional and contemporary sushi options.
6. Sasaki Sushi – This family-run establishment is known for its warm atmosphere and fresh, expertly prepared sushi dishes.
7. Sushizen Ganso Yokoyama – With over 100 years of history, this renowned restaurant serves up some of the best sushi in Takayama.
8. Suzuya – A local favorite for its affordable prices and top-quality nigiri and sashimi platters.
9. Suzaki-maru – This hidden gem specializes in delicate, melt-in-your-mouth seasonal fish sourced directly from local fishermen.
Note: It’s always recommended to make reservations in advance as some restaurants may have limited seating or may be closed on certain days of the week.
10. Are there any well-known sake breweries in the area that offer tastings or tours?
Yes, there are several well-known sake breweries in the area that offer tastings and tours. Some popular options include:
– Gekkeikan Sake Brewery: This historic brewery in Fushimi, Kyoto offers guided tours of their facilities, including a museum showcasing the history of sake production starting from the Edo period. Visitors can also enjoy tastings of their various types of sake.
– Kizakura Sake Brewery: Located in Kyoto’s famous Gion district, this brewery offers tours where visitors can learn about the traditional methods of sake production and sample their creations.
– Nada Sake District: This area in Kobe is home to several renowned sake breweries, such as Hakutsuru Sake Brewery and Kano Sake Brewery. Many of these breweries offer daily tours and tastings.
11. Is it customary to leave a tip at restaurants in Takayama?
Yes, it is customary to leave a small tip at restaurants in Takayama. A service charge is usually not included in the bill, and leaving a tip of around 5-10% is considered polite. However, the tip amount can vary depending on the quality of service provided.
12. Can you recommend any good izakayas (Japanese pubs) for drinks and small bites?
Sure! Here are a few highly rated izakayas in different locations:
1. Torikizoku (multiple locations) – This chain izakaya offers a wide variety of grilled chicken skewers and other dishes, all at an affordable price.
2. Tsumamiya (Roppongi) – This trendy izakaya has a cozy atmosphere and serves creative bites and cocktails made from fresh, seasonal ingredients.
3. Jomon Roppongi (Roppongi) – Specializing in yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), this casual spot also offers a selection of drinks and small plates to accompany your meal.
4. Tofuro (Shinjuku) – Located in Shinjuku’s Golden Gai district, Tofuro is known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food such as fried tofu and homemade pickles.
5. Warayakiya (Shibuya) – This izakaya features “warayaki” style food, where dishes are cooked over straw fire for a unique smoky flavor. They also have a large drink menu including sake, shochu, and craft beer.
6. Kurayoshi Nishi Azabu (Nishi-Azabu) – For an upscale izakaya experience, check out Kurayoshi Nishi Azabu which offers high-quality Japanese dishes and a wide selection of sake.
7. Kamiya Bar (Asakusa) – Established in 1880, this historic bar is known for its signature drink “Denki Bran” as well as traditional Japanese dishes like oden and tsukemono (pickles).
8. Nakamura Shokudo Daita Honten (Setagaya)- Focusing on using locally-sourced ingredients from Setagaya, this intimate izakaya serves up classic Japanese favorites such as sashimi, tempura, and nabe (hot pot).
9. Ushitora (Kichijoji) – This creative izakaya serves modern Japanese dishes and unique cocktails in a chic, minimalist setting.
10. Hachibei Yakitori (Ginza) – Located in the upscale Ginza district, this izakaya specializes in charcoal-grilled yakitori and also offers an extensive sake selection.
Note: Due to COVID-19, some of these establishments may have shortened hours or limited capacity. We recommend checking their websites or calling ahead for reservations before visiting.
13. Which neighborhoods or areas of Takayama have the best dining options?
Some popular neighborhoods with great dining options in Takayama include the Old Town (Sannomachi), a traditional Edo-period street known for its authentic Japanese restaurants and cafes; Nohi Bus Terminal area, which has a variety of affordable eateries serving local specialties; Hachiman-machi, a bustling shopping district with many izakayas, bars, and casual dining options; and Furui Machinami (Antique Street), where you can find several stylish cafes and restaurants set in renovated old homes. Additionally, many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) in Takayama offer excellent Kaiseki-style meals featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients.
14. Are there any cultural experiences involving food, such as cooking classes, available for tourists in Takayama?
Yes, there are several cultural experiences involving food available for tourists in Takayama. Some options include taking a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Hida beef dishes or local specialties like soba noodles and homemade tofu. You can also visit a sake brewery to learn about the brewing process and enjoy a tasting session. Some accommodations, such as ryokans (traditional Japanese inns), offer meals cooked with locally sourced ingredients and the opportunity to participate in preparing them. There are also food tours available where you can explore the town’s markets and try various local dishes from different vendors. Additionally, during certain festivals or events, there may be special food-related experiences, such as making mochi (rice cakes) or participating in a tea ceremony.
15. Is raw horse meat a common dish served in Takayama and where can I find it if I want to try it?
Raw horse meat, also known as basashi, is a traditional delicacy in Takayama. It is commonly served at izakayas and specialized basashi restaurants in the city. One popular restaurant known for serving basashi is Hida Gyu no Kyoshitsu.
16. Do many restaurants cater to dietary restrictions and allergies?
Yes, many restaurants cater to dietary restrictions and allergies. It is becoming more common for restaurants to offer options for those with dietary restrictions such as gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Restaurants may also be willing to accommodate other allergies or dietary needs if informed in advance.
17. Which season(s) is best for enjoying fresh local seafood from nearby coastal cities?
Spring and Summer are the best seasons for enjoying fresh local seafood from nearby coastal cities.
18. Can you suggest any budget-friendly yet delicious eats around Takayama?
1. Okonomiyaki Hiro-chan – This small okonomiyaki restaurant is a local favorite and serves up delicious, customizable Japanese pancakes at affordable prices.
2. Kisharyu – This popular soba noodle shop offers a variety of dishes and set menus at reasonable prices.
3. Hida Beef Rice Bowl Stand – For a taste of premium Hida beef without breaking the bank, try this roadside stand that serves up delicious beef rice bowls.
4. Sanamiya Soba – Another great spot for soba noodles, this family-run restaurant has been around for over 100 years and offers affordable lunch sets.
5. Takayama morning market – Pick up fresh produce, skewers of grilled meat, and other local specialties from the morning market for a budget-friendly meal on-the-go.
6. Cafe Yatsugatake Takayama – This cozy cafe offers affordable homestyle cooking using locally sourced ingredients.
7. Ramen Sen no Kaze – Craving ramen? Head to this popular spot for flavorful bowls at affordable prices.
8. Marumingi Ebisoba Sohonten – Enjoy delicious handmade udon noodles and freshly caught tempura in a casual setting at this family restaurant.
9. Fuji Sushi Takayama Daisukeramen Hanjo-tei – Satisfy your sushi cravings with affordable lunch sets or grab some takeout rolls to enjoy in a nearby park.
10. Restaurant Nariyama Honten – This beloved tonkatsu (deep-fried pork cutlet) restaurant is known for its generous portions and wallet-friendly prices.
19. How early do most restaurants close in the evening and are there late-night dining options available?
Most restaurants close around 9 or 10pm in the evening, but there are some that stay open later, especially in bigger cities. Late-night dining options are also available, such as diners, fast food chains, and 24-hour restaurants.
20.Describe the atmosphere and typical menu items at a traditional Japanese family-style restaurant (teishoku-ya).
A traditional Japanese family-style restaurant, also known as teishoku-ya, is typically a casual and welcoming establishment. The atmosphere is often cozy and inviting, with simple and understated decor.
The menu at a teishoku-ya usually features a variety of set meals or teishoku that are meant to be shared among the family. These set meals often consist of a main dish, soup, rice, pickles, and side dishes such as tempura or sashimi. The ingredients used in these dishes are fresh and locally sourced, showcasing the seasonality of Japanese cuisine.
Some popular menu items at a teishoku-ya include:
1. Teriyaki chicken – Grilled or broiled chicken marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.
2. Tonkatsu – Breaded and deep-fried pork cutlets served with tonkatsu sauce.
3. Saba no shioyaki – Grilled mackerel seasoned with salt.
4. Sukiyaki – Thinly sliced beef cooked in a hotpot with vegetables and tofu.
5. Oyako-don – A rice bowl topped with chicken, eggs, onions, and other ingredients simmered in a sweet-savory sauce.
6. Tempura – Deep-fried seafood or vegetables coated in a light batter.
7. Chawanmushi – A savory egg custard dish steamed with various toppings such as shrimp or mushrooms.
8. Miso soup – A flavorful broth made from fermented soybean paste (miso) and often includes tofu, seaweed, or other ingredients.
In addition to these dishes, teishoku-ya also offer a variety of side dishes such as salads, grilled fish or meat skewers (yakitori), and small plates known as otsumami which pair well with alcohol.
Overall, traditional Japanese family-style restaurants offer hearty and satisfying meals that are meant to be enjoyed in a warm and relaxed atmosphere with friends and family.