Fukuoka (Hakata) Foods you should try
Ramen noodles with pork bone soup
Fukuoka is known for its pork bone soup ramen.
A well-known and highly recommended place is Ichiran, which has locations in Nakasu, Tenjin, and Canal City (a commercial complex). If you want to know about Fukuoka ramen, click here, and you will jump to the article “Fukuoka Ramen Noodles for Foreign Visitors.”

Mizutaki Chicken Pot Dish
This is a very famous dish in Fukuoka. Chicken is the main ingredient, and it is typically enjoyed with ponzu (a mix of soy sauce and citrus juice).

Mentaiko spicy cod roe
If you want to eat Mentaiko with rice, you should visit “Ganso Mentai Ju,” which is near Acros. Be prepared for a long wait, as it is very popular.

Yakitori skewered gilled chicken
Yakitori shops in Fukuoka serve not only chicken but also pork, fish, vegetables, and more. The three most commonly ordered items are Bara (pork rib), Zuri (gizzard), and Kawa (chicken skin). Many people say that Kawa is the best. In Fukuoka, Yakitori shops often serve Kawa rolled, a style unique to the city.

Gyoza dumplings
Fukuoka’s gyoza dumplings are smaller than those found elsewhere but are very popular.
Motsunabe Motsu (organ meat) Pot Dish
This dish is extremely famous throughout Japan as one of Hakata’s (Fukuoka’s) specialties. Motsu (organ meat) in soy sauce or miso soup is very tasty and affordable!

Udon noodles
Made from flour, udon noodles are popular in Fukuoka, and locals enjoy them as much as ramen. I recommend the shop Karo-no-Uron (かろのうろん). The old-fashioned building attracts many people, but be aware that photography inside the shop is not allowed. Besides this shop, udon restaurants are widely available.

Gomasaba, raw mackerel dipped in soy sauce with sesames
This dish can be ordered at any izakaya (drinking house) in Fukuoka City. Raw mackerel, or Saba, is unique to Fukuoka, as it is typically not eaten raw elsewhere due to its quick spoilage. I personally love this dish.

One good sweets souvenir of Fukuoka
One delightful souvenir is Hiyoko! It is a manju (sweet bun) filled with sweet paste and shaped like a chick. So cute!
You may find it too adorable to eat, but you can find Hiyoko in any souvenir shop in Fukuoka.

Not Fukuoka specialties but good Japanese food
Sushi in belt-conveyor sushi restaurants
Sushi restaurants in Japan offer more than just sashimi sushi; they also serve a variety of toppings on rice, including cooked fish, meat, salad, and more. While sashimi sushi represents the true essence of sushi, many international versions do not meet this standard. If you’ve tried sashimi on your trip, you should definitely visit a conveyor belt sushi restaurant in Japan to experience authentic sushi.

Tempura
Tempura is usually quite expensive, but there is a great and affordable option: Hirao, located in the basement of Acros. There’s often a long line, but you can expect to get your food within about an hour.

Okonomiyaki
It’s surprising that this delicious dish hasn’t gained more recognition overseas. Okonomiyaki is similar to a pancake but includes a variety of ingredients such as pork, seafood, cabbage, and more, all topped with a special sauce. It’s a must-try!
