Introduction: Discover Hitachi’s Local Food Scene
Hitachi City in northern Ibaraki may be known as the birthplace of Hitachi Ltd., but beyond its industrial image lies a city rich in flavors. Facing the Pacific, it serves some of Japan’s freshest seafood, while inland you’ll find premium wagyu beef, handmade soba, and a rare local sake brewed in the mountains.
Whether you’re a seafood fan, a meat lover, or simply curious about local tastes, Hitachi offers dishes you won’t find in Tokyo or Kyoto.
Where to Try Anglerfish (Ankō) in Hitachi
Ankō-nabe (anglerfish hot pot) is Ibaraki’s winter specialty, prized for its rich liver (ankimo) and collagen-rich skin. Hitachi’s fishing ports ensure the freshest catch.
Manbō – Traditional Japanese Cuisine
A long-loved local restaurant serving seasonal seafood.
🍚 Try: Ankō-nabe with a clean, umami-rich broth, or Kujihama Shirasu Kakiage (crispy sardine fritter).
📍 15 min walk from Hitachi Station
🏠 Practical Info
- Hours: 11:30–13:30, 17:00–21:30
- Closed: Tuesdays
- Credit cards : accepted
- English support: Not available
- Reservations: Recommended for dinner, especially in winter
Kōshiya – Izakaya with Local Flavors
A lively izakaya open late, perfect for casual dining.
🍚 Try: Soy milk–based Ankō-nabe, or Deep-fried Mehikari (rare deep-sea fish).
📍 10 min walk from Hitachi Station
🏠 Practical Info
- Hours: 17:00–24:00
- Closed: New Year’s Day
- Credit cards : accepted
- English support: English menu not available
- Reservations: Usually not required, but weekends can be busy
- Website: here(Japanese only)
🐂Where to Try Hitachi Beef
Hitachi Beef (Hitachi-gyū) is wagyu with beautiful marbling and refined flavor. Less famous abroad than Kobe, but equally memorable.
Niku no Kurata – A Local Favorite for Meat Lovers
Family-friendly, with generous portions and carefully selected cuts.
🍚 Try: Beef Steak served Japanese-style with wasabi and chopsticks.
Special Premium Yakiniku with Kurata’s house-made sauce.
📍 15 min walk from Hitachi Station
🏠 Practical Info
- Hours: 17:00–21:00
- Closed: Mondays & Tuesdays
- Credit cards : accepted
- English support: English menu not available
- Reservations: Not always necessary, but good for weekends
- Website: here(Japanese only)
Where to Drink Fukukokoro Sake
Made by Shiina Brewery, Fukukokoro is a small-batch sake rarely seen outside Hitachi. Smooth, balanced, and best paired with soba.
Machian Soba Restaurant
Specializing in Hitachi Aki Soba, grown on its own farm.
🍚 Pair: Handmade soba + chilled Fukukokoro.
📍 Central Exit of Hitachi Station
🏠 Practical Info
- Hours: 17:00–21:00
- Closed: Mondays & Tuesdays
- Credit cards : accepted
- English support: English menu available
- Reservations: Recommended for dinner
- Website: here(Japanese only)
Take Home
Find bottles at Kasumi Hitachi-Kamimine supermarket or Platto Hitachi shopping area.
Local Favorites Loved by Hitachi Residents
Tōen – Affordable Japanese-Style Chinese Food
Tōen is a long-loved local restaurant in Hitachi, serving hearty Japanese-style Chinese dishes at wallet-friendly prices. It’s especially popular with backpackers, students, and budget travelers looking for a filling meal without spending too much.
🍚 Must Try:
- Gomoku Fried Rice (Mixed Fried Rice): A flavorful dish packed with meat, seafood, and vegetables.
- Gyoza (Dumplings): Crispy outside, juicy inside – a favorite side dish to share.
Tōen is one of the best places in Hitachi to experience casual local dining, giving you a taste of everyday Japan that locals truly love.
📍 Location: 20-minute walk from Hitachi Station.
🏠 Practical Info
- Hours: 11:00–14:00
- Closed: Mondays to Fridays
- Credit cards : No
- English support: English menu not available
- Reservations: Not needed
cafe miharu
Cafe Miharu is a cozy café in front of Hitachi Station, set inside a renovated traditional Japanese house. With its relaxed atmosphere and ocean views, it’s a perfect stop for travelers looking to slow down and enjoy a peaceful break in Hitachi.
🍰 Must Try: Freshly brewed coffee with homemade cake – a simple but satisfying treat after sightseeing.
📍 Location: Just a 5-minute walk from Hitachi Station.
🏠 Practical Info
- Hours: 13:00–18:00
- Closed: Mondays to Fridays
- Credit cards : No
- English support: English menu not available
- Reservations: Not needed
- Website: here(Japanese only)
💡 Note: Cafe Miharu also serves lunch and dinner, but only with advance reservation (by the day before). Check their official Facebook page for the latest details.
Final Thoughts: Why Hitachi is a Hidden Foodie Destination
Most travelers to Japan focus on Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka. But if you take a short trip north from Tokyo, Hitachi offers an entirely different food journey. From the rich flavors of ankō hot pot to the refined taste of Hitachi Beef and the rare sip of Fukukokoro sake, this city is full of discoveries.
What makes Hitachi special is not just the quality of its food, but the fact that it remains largely undiscovered by international tourists. Dining here feels authentic—you’ll be eating side by side with locals, not just other travelers.
And food is only the beginning. 🌊⛩️ For a complete picture of the city—including sightseeing spots, seasonal festivals, and easy day trips—take a look at our Hitachi Travel Guide.
So next time you plan a trip to Japan, consider adding Hitachi to your itinerary. It’s a place where you can taste the true flavors of Ibaraki, far from the usual tourist trail.