Hakata Gourmet Treasures: 3 Must-Visit Spots

As the gateway to Kyushu, Hakata has long been a hub of culinary culture and is a true treasure trove of local flavors. From tonkotsu ramen and mizutaki to motsunabe, Hakata is home to dishes known across Japan. Rich broths, umami-packed stocks, and fresh ingredients combine to create flavors you’ll never forget. From a quick bite at the lively yatai street stalls to long-established specialty restaurants, Hakata offers a variety of unique dining experiences. When you visit, don’t miss the chance to savor these authentic local tastes.

Refined White Miso Motsunabe at Ichifuji Hakata

When it comes to Hakata specialties, motsunabe is at the top of the list—and Ichifuji Hakata is one of the most popular places to try it. Their hotpot uses only fresh domestic beef offal from Kyushu, known for its plump texture and rich flavor. Diners can choose from soy sauce, miso, or a light salt broth, but the white miso base stands out as a favorite for its refined taste. Sharing a steaming hotpot naturally sparks conversation, adding warmth to a night out in Hakata. To finish, drop in champon noodles or rice to enjoy every last drop. Beloved by both locals and visitors, Ichifuji is a true representative of Hakata’s motsunabe culture.

Hours	Sun–Thu: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM Fri, Sat & Day before holidays: 5:00 PM – 11:30 PM
Address	2-4-16 Hakataekimae, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
Access	・Canal City Fukuoka Washington Hotel: About a 10-min. walk to Hakata Station. From Hakata Station Hakata Exit, about a 3-min. walk to Ichifuji Hakata.
URL	https://www.ichifuji-f.jp/hakata/

Traditional White Broth Mizutaki at Toriden Hakata Main Branch

Mizutaki, a hotpot that slowly draws out the rich flavor of chicken, is another beloved Hakata specialty. You can enjoy it to the fullest at Toriden Hakata Main Branch, located near Hakataza Theater and Nakasu-Kawabata Station for easy access. The restaurant serves a traditional white broth made by simmering Kyushu-raised whole chickens in only water for six hours, resulting in a fragrant, creamy soup. Paired with tender chicken and seasonal vegetables, it offers a comforting and authentic Hakata experience.

Hours	Weekdays: 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM (L.O. 3:00 PM), 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM (L.O. 10:00 PM) Sat, Sun & Holidays: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM (L.O. 10:00 PM)
Address	1F Hakata Koujiya-ban Building, 10-5 Shimokawabatamachi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
Access	・Canal City Fukuoka Washington Hotel: About a 10-min. walk to Hakata Station. From Hakata Station, take the Fukuoka City Subway Kuko Line (about 2 min.) and get off at Nakasu-Kawabata Station. From Exit 5, about a 2-min. walk to Toriden Hakata Main Branch.
URL	https://toriden.com/

“Tonkotsu Cappuccino” Ramen at Hakata Issou Hakataekihigashi Main Shop

Located east of Hakata Station, Hakata Issou Hakataekihigashi Main Shop is famed for its rich yet clean-tasting tonkotsu broth. Using only domestic pig bones, the owner developed a golden ratio of head bones, back bones, and leg bones, which are carefully prepared and simmered for hours in three large stockpots until the marrow completely dissolves. The resulting cloudy broth is topped with a signature froth—the proof of handcrafted tonkotsu—earning it the nickname “Tonkotsu Cappuccino.” The noodles, developed in collaboration with a local noodle maker, are flat, smooth, and cut for a pleasant bite, perfectly matching the soup. A special soy-based tare made with Fukuoka soy sauce and simple toppings like char siu and Itoshima green onions complete the bowl.

Hours	11:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight (closes when soup runs out) Closed: Irregular
Address	3-1-6 Hakataekihigashi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka 812-0013
Access	・Canal City Fukuoka Washington Hotel: About a 10-min. walk to Hakata Station. From Hakata Station Chikushi Exit, about a 4-min. walk to Hakata Issou Hakataekihigashi Main Shop.
URL	http://www.hakata-issou.com/