Must-Try Local Food in Nagoya: A Complete Guide to “Nagoya Meshi”

2026.01.02

Nagoya is famous not only for its history and culture, but also for its rich food culture known as “Nagoya Meshi.”

These dishes were born in Nagoya or became local favorites over generations, offering travelers a chance to experience the region’s authentic everyday flavors.

In this guide, we introduce the origins of Nagoya Meshi, what makes it special, and the top must-try dishes when visiting the city.

What Is “Nagoya Meshi”?

The term “Nagoya Meshi” was created in 2001 by a local restaurant founder to promote the region’s cuisine.
Its popularity grew dramatically during the 2005 Aichi Expo, when visitors from across Japan discovered Nagoya’s unique flavors.

There is no strict definition, but Nagoya Meshi generally refers to:

・Dishes born in Nagoya or the surrounding region

・Food that became a local specialty over time

・Meals that locals regularly enjoy in their daily lives

Food writer Toshiyuki Otake points out three characteristics of Nagoya Meshi:

1. Wide variety 
2. Available only here 
3. Loved and eaten by locals 

Many recipes date back centuries—some as far as the Edo period—making Nagoya Meshi both a culinary and cultural experience.

Top 10 Must-Try Local Foods in Nagoya

Here are some of the city’s most iconic dishes that every traveler should try:

1. Miso Nikomi Udon (味噌煮込みうどん)

Thick udon noodles simmered in a rich, intense red miso broth.
Hearty, warming, and deeply flavorful.

2. Hitsumabushi (ひつまぶし)

Nagoya-style grilled eel served in three different ways:
straight, with condiments, and as a tea-infused “ochazuke.”

3. Miso Katsu (みそかつ)

A breaded pork cutlet topped with sweet and bold hatcho miso sauce, unique to Aichi.

4. Tebasaki (手羽先)

Crispy fried chicken wings with a sweet-spicy glaze. Perfect with beer.

5. Nagoya Cochin Chicken (名古屋コーチン)

Premium local chicken known for its rich flavor and firm texture.

6. Kishimen (きしめん)

Flat, wide noodles in a light soy-based broth—simple yet refreshing.

7. Ankake Spaghetti (あんかけスパ)

Spaghetti topped with a thick, peppery sauce and stir-fried vegetables.

8. Taiwan Ramen (台湾ラーメン)

A spicy Nagoya-born ramen made with minced meat, chili, and garlic. Not from Taiwan—created in Nagoya!

9. Tenmusu (天むす)

Rice balls filled with tiny tempura shrimp. Portable, light, and addictive.

10. Teppan Napolitan (鉄板ナポリタン)

A regional twist on Napolitan spaghetti served on a sizzling iron plate with a fluffy egg base—retro and delicious.

Nagoya Meshi is not just for tourists—it’s a true reflection of local lifestyle and culture.

FAQ: Nagoya Local Food

Q1. What food is Nagoya most famous for?

Hitsumabushi (eel), Miso Katsu, Miso Nikomi Udon, and Tebasaki are the most iconic Nagoya dishes.

Q2. Is Nagoya food spicy?

Most dishes are not spicy, but Taiwan Ramen is known for being extremely hot.

Q3. Where can I try Nagoya Meshi?

Many dishes are available in:

・Nagoya Station area

・Sakae district

・Osu shopping streets

・Local long-running restaurants

Q4. Is Nagoya Meshi expensive?

Varies by dish.
You can enjoy miso katsu, kishimen, or napolitan for ¥800–¥1,200, while hitsumabushi usually costs ¥3,000–¥4,000.

Q5. Are these dishes vegetarian-friendly?

Most Nagoya Meshi is meat- or fish-based.
However, kishimen and teppan-style noodles may have vegetarian-friendly options.

Stay Near Nagoya’s Best Local Food with NAGOYA APARTMENT

If you want easy access to Nagoya’s famous local dishes, stay in a location close to the city’s main food districts.
NAGOYA APARTMENT offers comfortable, fully furnished rooms in key areas such as:

Nagoya Station / Chikusa / Imaike / Ozone / Kasadera / Osu / Ikeshita

All properties come with:

・Furniture & home appliances

・Full kitchen—perfect for trying local ingredients at home

・Great access to restaurants and food hubs

・Locations within 10 minutes by train or 30 minutes by car from Nagoya Station

For stays of 31 nights or more, NAGOYA APARTMENT can be used as a monthly rental, with:

・No key money

・No security deposit

・Move-in-ready rooms

If you want to enjoy Nagoya Meshi every day while living comfortably,
NAGOYA APARTMENT is the ideal base for your stay in Nagoya.