Perfect for First-Time Visitors to Sendai! A Gourmet Tour of Markets, Long-Established Shops, and Local Specialties

Blessed with an abundance of fresh seafood and a rich tradition of long-established flavors, Sendai is a city where culinary culture is deeply woven into everyday life. If you are visiting for sightseeing, a great place to start is with classic gourmet spots that truly capture the essence of Sendai.
In this article, we introduce three must-visit places: a sushi restaurant in Sendai Morning Market where you can enjoy fresh seafood, a long-loved kamaboko specialty shop cherished by both locals and travelers, and a historic tea shop that has given rise to the increasingly popular local specialty, zunda shake. Even with a short stay, these three spots will allow you to fully experience the food culture that defines Sendai.

Enjoy Sanriku Oysters at “Kaki to Sushi Umi no Okite”

Located along the lively streets of Sendai Morning Market, Kaki to Sushi Umi no Okite (Sendai Asaichi branch) is a reliable choice for travelers who want to enjoy the flavors of Miyagi’s sea from the early hours of the day. One of its greatest attractions is the chance to dine amid the vibrant atmosphere of the morning market. After strolling through the stalls and soaking in the feeling of “Sendai in the morning,” you can sit down and savor fresh oysters and sushi—an experience unique to this location.

The highlight here is undoubtedly the fresh Sanriku oysters, available throughout the year. They can be enjoyed in a variety of styles, including raw, grilled, fried, or even in ramen. With their plump texture and rich, briny flavor, the oysters truly shine thanks to simple preparations that let the quality of the ingredients speak for themselves. For first-time visitors to Sendai, this is a taste that leaves a lasting impression.

In addition to oysters, the menu features seasonal sushi, sashimi, meat dishes, and a wide range of small plates, making it an approachable seafood izakaya for all kinds of travelers. Easy to drop by during a morning market walk or for an early lunch, it is an ideal spot for anyone who wants to start their Sendai journey by enjoying the region’s exceptional seafood.

Hours	Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–2:00 PM, 5:00 PM–12:00 AM Sundays & Public Holidays: 12:00 PM–10:00 PM
Address	Sendai Asaichi Main Market 3-10-10 Chuo, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi
Access	Sendai Washington Hotel: Walk about 5 min to JR Sendai Station, exit from the West Exit, then walk about 7 min to Sendai Morning Market. The restaurant is located inside the market.
URL	https://uminookite.owst.jp/en/

Abe Kamaboko Main Store, Famous for the Street Food Favorite “Hyōtan-age”

When it comes to Sendai’s signature food, sasakamaboko is one name that immediately comes to mind—and Abe Kamaboko Main Store is often the first name that comes up. Founded in 1935 in Shindenmachō, the birthplace of Abe Kamaboko, the shop has long supported Sendai’s food culture and is regarded as a cornerstone of the city’s culinary history. The store is also known as the originator of the name sasakamaboko. What was once called “konoha kamaboko” or “tenohira kamaboko” was renamed by the founder after the Date clan’s family crest, “sparrows in bamboo,” giving rise to the now-famous name.

The flagship sasakamaboko is prized for its refined flavor that draws out the natural umami of fish, as well as its supple, springy texture. While it is a popular souvenir, tasting it freshly grilled at the shop is a special experience in itself. Another must-try is hyōtan-age, a beloved street food with a crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior that has become a favorite for eating on the go.

At the main store, visitors can also find a wide variety of kamaboko products, including the carefully crafted Sasakama Sendai and playful options like cheese balls. Hands-on grilled sasakamaboko experiences are available as well. More than just a place to shop, Abe Kamaboko Main Store offers a chance to experience Sendai’s flavors and warm hospitality, making it a perfect stop during a leisurely walk through the city.

Hours	10:00 AM–7:00 PM Hand-grilled sasakamaboko experience: registration accepted from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Address	Main Store 2-3-18 Chuo, Aoba-ku, Sendai
Access	Sendai Washington Hotel: Walk about 5 min to JR Sendai Station, pass through the station, then walk about 10 min toward the West Exit.
URL	https://www.abekama.co.jp/

Enjoy the New Sendai Specialty, Zunda Shake, at “Ocha no Igeta”

With a history spanning more than 100 years, Ocha no Igeta Sendai Chuo Main Store is an essential presence when it comes to Sendai’s traditional sweets culture. Inside the shop, you’ll find carefully selected tea leaves alongside a variety of confections and tea utensils. Signature sweets such as Kikufuku and Dorachan are especially popular and have become classic souvenirs from Sendai. In recent years, however, another item has been gaining attention as a new local specialty: the zunda shake.

Zunda is one of Miyagi Prefecture’s three major local specialties, made by grinding edamame into a smooth paste. It is traditionally enjoyed as zunda-an, often served atop rice cakes. By blending this zunda paste with milk and ice cream, it is transformed into the refreshing and indulgent drink known as the zunda shake. The gentle saltiness and subtle texture of the zunda combine beautifully with the creamy sweetness of milk and ice cream, creating a flavor so satisfying that you’ll want to come back for more.

The shop also offers matcha soft-serve ice cream at the counter, and an eat-in space where visitors can relax and take their time. Enjoying a zunda shake while gazing out at the streets of Sendai makes for a memorable moment—one that will surely become a highlight of your journey.

Hours	10:00 AM–7:30 PM (Last order at 7:00 PM)
Address	Shobundo Building, 1F South 2-5-9 Chuo, Aoba-ku, Sendai
Access	Sendai Washington Hotel: Walk about 5 min to JR Sendai Station, exit from the West Exit, then walk about 8 min to the shop.
URL	https://www.kikusuian.com/