Miyazaki's Authentic Cuisine: Local Dishes, Restaurants, and Recipes

Welcome to Miyazaki, a city in Japan known for its incredible culinary traditions. With a perfect combination of fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods, Miyazaki's cuisine is truly a gastronomic delight. In this guide, we will explore the local dishes, recommend some of the best restaurants in the area, and even provide you with a few recipes to recreate these delicious dishes at home.

Local Dishes

Miyazaki is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, and here are some of the must-try local dishes:

1. Takachiho Chicken: This dish features succulent chicken cooked in a savory soy-based sauce. The chicken is known for its tenderness and is often served with steamed rice and a side of pickles.
2. Hyuganatsu: This citrus fruit is native to Miyazaki and is known for its refreshing taste. It is often used to make various desserts, such as cakes, sorbets, and creamy custards.
3. Chicken Nanban: Originating from Miyazaki, this dish consists of marinated and deep-fried chicken topped with a special tartar sauce. It is usually served with a side of shredded cabbage.
4. Shio Ramen: Miyazaki is famous for its ramen, and shio ramen is a must-try. It is a clear, salty broth served with chewy noodles, topped with fresh green onions, seaweed, and tender slices of pork.
5. Miyazaki Beef: Renowned for its superior quality, Miyazaki beef is one of Japan's finest varieties of wagyu. With its buttery flavor and exceptional marbling, it is a true delight for meat lovers.
6. Kobachi: This local specialty is a side dish consisting of various seasonal vegetables served in small portions. Often pickled or marinated, it adds a refreshing and colorful touch to any meal.

Best Restaurants in Miyazaki

If you are craving an authentic Miyazaki dining experience, here are some of the best restaurants in the area:

• Restaurant Aji no Miyabe: Located in the heart of Miyazaki, this restaurant is famous for its traditional Japanese cuisine. Their seasonal specials and fresh ingredients make it a local favorite.
• Yoshokuya: A renowned restaurant specializing in Western-style cuisine with a Japanese twist. Indulge in their delicious steak dishes, pasta, or mouthwatering desserts.
• Robata Yokocho: This lively food street offers various grilled skewers and other izakaya-style dishes. Perfect for those looking for a casual and vibrant dining experience.
• Kyomachidori Nishinotenjin: Known for its exceptional tonkatsu (breaded and deep-fried pork cutlets), this restaurant is a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.
• Umigaruya: Located near the coast, this seafood restaurant serves an array of fresh and expertly prepared seafood dishes. Don't miss their sashimi platters or grilled fish.

Recipes to Try at Home

If you want to recreate the flavors of Miyazaki in your own kitchen, here are a few recipes to get you started:

Takachiho Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs
• 4 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet rice wine)
• 2 tablespoons sake (Japanese rice wine)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar to make the marinade.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides.
4. Serve the Takachiho chicken with steamed rice and pickles.

Hyuganatsu Sorbet

Ingredients:

• 2 hyuganatsu fruits
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Cut the hyuganatsu fruits in half and scoop out the flesh.
2. In a blender, puree the hyuganatsu flesh, water, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions.
4. Once churned, transfer the sorbet into a container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Enjoy these delightful Miyazaki dishes and explore the culinary wonders this city has to offer!