As the lights signs begin to glow outside the bars and restaurants in Miyazaki’s bustling “Nishitachi” area, Kurobee (黒兵衛)starts filling up with locals kicking off their night with a glass of beer and a plate of perfect crispy gyoza.
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With over seventy years of history, Kurobee (黒兵衛) is a gyoza specialty restaurant that locals will undoubtedly recommend when asked, “Where can I find delicious gyoza in the city?” Undoubtedly immense support from the community and is widely regarded as a must-visit gyoza spot.

This store began when the founder returned from Manchuria after the war. Inspired by the gyoza-making techniques he learned there, he opened the first shop in Nobeoka City. The founder’s son opened a second location in Miyazaki City in 1979. The Chūō Street branch, which opened in 2019, is now run by the founder’s grandson, representing the third generation of family ownership.

As one of the pioneers in bringing gyoza to Japan under the influence of Chinese culture, Kurobee has played a key role in spreading gyoza culture in Miyazaki. With its deep-rooted history, the shop has been instrumental in shaping the local love for gyoza.

Long before Miyazaki City was recognized as the top gyoza-consuming city in Japan for two consecutive years in 2022, and widely known as the “Gyoza Town, Kurobee has been a pioneering force in promoting gyoza culture in the area, watching its development over the years. The flavor, preserved for seventy years, continues to delight local palates, proving that some things remain timeless, no matter how much the world evolves.

The menu is simple, featuring only pan-fried gyoza alongside a selection of alcoholic beverages and soft drinks. (At the Chūō Street location, you can also order soup gyoza, white rice, and miso soup.)

Their gyoza are committed to a farm-to-table philosophy, using locally sourced ingredients. Except for the high-quality garlic they intentionally source from Aomori Prefecture, all other ingredients, such as pork, beef, cabbage, onions, and chives, are from Miyazaki. The dough is crafted with a precise balance of wheat flour, adjusted according to the season and humidity to achieve the perfect thickness, neither too thin nor too thick. Traditional methods passed down from the previous owner are meticulously followed, ensuring that every step of the process is done by hand.

The dexterity in the hands wrapping gyoza behind the counter is a true display of craftsmanship.
The sizzling sound and the irresistible aroma make it impossible to resist!

The surface is perfectly golden and crisp, while the underside is soft with a subtle chew. Each bite bursts with the rich, natural flavors of vegetables and meat, without any of the usual gaminess from pork and beef or the strong aftertaste of garlic. They’re so irresistibly delicious that you’ll find yourself devouring an entire plate in no time. Pairing them with a cold beer or shochu elevates the experience to another level.

Why not treat yourself to these beloved, handcrafted gyoza and make them the highlight of your exciting night out in Miyazaki?

Just a three-minute walk from the Chūō Street location, you’ll find the original Kurobee, which features counter seating only. The original location operates on a walk-in basis, while reservations for the Chūō Street location can be made by calling 0985-35-7115.

Business hours:
Chūō Street Location: 6 PM - 2:30 AM
Original Location: 6 PM - 2:00 AM

Payment Methods:
Chūō Street Location: PayPay and cash
Original ​​​​​Location: Cash only

Looking for a truly delicious sushi spot that you can casually drop by?
Tachigui Sushi-dokoro IN (立ち食い寿司処 印) is the first standing sushi bar in Miyazaki, beloved by locals for its authentic sushi served in a relaxed, accessible setting.

The owner of IN, Master Imamura, has loved sushi since he was fifteen when he started making it. After gaining various experiences, including working at a renowned sushi restaurant in Miyazaki, his longtime dream of opening his store came true when he turned twenty-eight.

Master Imamura’s commitment to sourcing ingredients is exceptional.

Fresh fish is sourced from Miyazaki and across Japan, including unique varieties rarely enjoyed as sushi even by locals. Using special aged vinegar that is rich in umami and amino acids, he combines new rice with higher moisture content and flavorful aged rice for a unique blend. The soy sauce is a special sweet variety from Nichinan City, chosen by the master for its exceptional taste.

With over forty types of sushi and rolls on the menu, you can choose your favorite toppings and tell your selection to the master. In no time, you’ll see beautifully crafted sushi being prepared with smooth, skilled motions. You can order sushi one piece at a time, making it easy to say, “Let’s try that next!” This makes it a breeze to explore and discover your favorite sushi.

Whether for a quick bite in the evening or a satisfying end to a night out, IN is always bustling with customers enjoying delicious sushi.
Excited to try this beautifully crafted sushi! Time to savor them with the master’s signature sweet soy sauce!

Pairing sushi with Miyazaki’s crisp shochu mixed with soda.
The sharp spice of ginger and its subtle sweetness complement the sushi perfectly!

“Many young people today have only ever eaten sushi from chain conveyor belt restaurants. I truly hope they experience the deliciousness of hand-formed sushi at least once,” Master Imamura said.
“IN’s motto is “Quick, Delicious, and Affordable. I would be happy if I could offer authentic sushi to people of all ages to enjoy it more casually.”

Business hours: 6 PM - 3 AM (Closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays)
Payment Methods: Cash or electronic money
No reservations are needed. Feel free to drop by anytime!

Hidden on the second floor of a small building on Chūō Street, which hums with life as night falls, lies Zakkubaran (大衆酒場 ざっくばらん), a laid-back izakaya cherished by locals for its hearty food, friendly vibe, and nostalgic atmosphere.

Opening the door to this beloved spot, affectionately known as “Zak” among regulars, you’re immediately greeted by a retro interior that evokes memories of Japan in the mid-20th century.

Shōwa era records, posters, board games, and toys surround the interior.
The music playing in the background is melodic and inviting, featuring Japanese pop and enka songs from the 1970s to the 1990s.

Zakku Baran will celebrate its third anniversary in October 2024. This place was created by its current owner, who was traveling across Japan at the time. A visit to Aya Town in Miyazaki Prefecture left a profound impression on him, with its organic farming practices and globally acclaimed projects to protect the subtropical evergreen forests. The area’s vibrant food culture also played a key role in inspiring him. Motivated to highlight Miyazaki’s exceptional ingredients, he launched this inviting casual tavern.

The name “Zakku Baran” reflects a Japanese expression that means openly and honestly expressing one’s feelings without pretense. The owner chose this name to hope that people of all ages and backgrounds would enjoy lively conversations and meals together, breaking down barriers and creating a joyful atmosphere.

The counter seats, adorned with randomly placed stickers and pop art, often see new guests stirring conversations and enjoying drinks together. It’s not uncommon to witness these unexpected connections and shared fun moments.

“We aim to create a homey and welcoming atmosphere where you might think, ‘I don’t want to drink alone at home, so I’ll just stop by for a bit,’ and end up coming by once or twice a week,” says the manager, Mr. Asato. “We also enjoy engaging with our customers in a relaxed and friendly manner, making the experience enjoyable for everyone.”

Alongside classic izakaya staples, the menu boasts a selection of dishes made with Miyazaki’s local ingredients, including organic vegetables from Aya Town. Local favorites like chicken nanban, chicken sashimi, fried mehikari (small deep-sea fish), and salt-grilled sweetfish from Aya Town are popular and beloved by the community.

Crispy fried chicken soaked in a sweet and tangy sauce topped with creamy tartar, Miyazaki’s beloved Chicken Nanban (チキン南蛮) is a must-try!

The salt-grilled sweetfish from Aya Town has crispy skin and tender, plump white meat. Squeeze some lemon and enjoy!

A must-try on Miyazaki’s izakaya menu, deep-fried mehikari offers tender, fluffy meat packed with sweet, savory goodness. Once you start, you won’t be able to stop!

If you’re eager to explore a new side of Japanese food culture, chicken sashimi is a must-try. Fresh, raw chicken, rarely found outside Miyazaki, offers a smooth, tender texture with no gaminess. Enjoy it with ponzu or soy sauce.

Other highlights include tamagoyaki made with farm-fresh eggs from Kobayashi City, buttery-soft Sadowara eggplant with its thick, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and a wide selection of shochu sourced from all over Miyazaki. The menu is packed with delicious izakaya favorites.

Cheers to a night in Miyazaki! With a fun atmosphere and delicious food and drinks, you’ll feel your heart unwind.
Relax and enjoy Miyazaki’s delicious food and drinks in the cozy, welcoming spirit of “Zakkubaran”!

Business hours:
Monday to Saturday: 5 PM - 12 AM
Sunday: 4 PM - 10 PM
Payment Methods: Cash, credit cards, electronic money, and transportation IC cards.
Reservation: Please call 0985-77-5666 or send a direct message via the Instagram link below.
https://www.instagram.com/sakaba.zakkubaran/

In addition to tatami seating and counter options, they also offer a private room for seven to eight people.
If you prefer a horigotatsu (a traditional Japanese table with a sunken seating area) or a private room, please ask about availability when making your reservation.

At the end of a fun night of drinking, the gentle, comforting zousui (Japanese rice porridge) is the perfect way to finish your meal.

Otsū (お通) was founded in 1961 as a zousui specialty restaurant and has since become a beloved and well-known establishment among the locals. Originally known as “BAR Otsū,” the establishment served alcohol and offered zousui as a closing dish. When it became a hit with patrons, the bar evolved into the dedicated zousui restaurant it is today.

After 10 PM, you’ll find people winding down their night out in the city by stopping in for a comforting bowl of zousui, warming up both body and soul before heading home.

Otsū offers over fifty varieties of zousui, including options like simple chive and scallion, as well as more inventive choices like curry, cheese, and a creamy zousui with white sauce and bonito stock. With twenty-five different toppings available, including chicken, salmon, tomatoes, and cheese, you can customize your zousui to suit your mood.

Don’t miss out on the seasonal limited menus! This fall, try the five-mushroom zousui or the saba dashi ochazuke for a special treat.

One of the long-standing favorites at Otsū is the “Nira Zousui (にら雑炊).”
The fluffy eggs and the gentle, comforting flavors of kombu and bonito broth will have you sighing with satisfaction.

If you’re looking for a comforting end to your night or simply a delicious, soothing meal, Otsu’s diverse and seasonal zousui options offer something for every palate.

Business hours:
Sunday to Thursday: 6 PM - 3 AM
Friday, Saturday, and the day before the holidays: 6 PM - 5 AM
Payment method: Cash only
Reservations: Please call 0985-26-2821.