If you’re wondering what to eat in Sendai, the largest city in the Tohoku region of Japan, you’re in for a treat!
With Sendai’s easy access from Tokyo, it has become a bustling hub for tourism in the region. It’s the perfect destination for those looking to explore the northeastern part of Japan and indulge in a wide range of culinary delights.
From the abundance of seafood from the Sanriku Coast to renowned local delicacies like Sendai beef and edamame, not to mention the famous tender and chewy beef tongue, Sendai offers a truly memorable gastronomic experience.
Here, we will guide you through the must-try specialties of Sendai, along with a recommended food map for popular tourist spots such as Sendai Station, Akiu Onsen, and Matsushima. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds in Sendai!
Image source: PIXTA
What to Eat in Sendai: A Guide to Culinary Delights
Beef Tongue (Gyutan/牛タン)
(Photo: PIXTA)
When it comes to Sendai cuisine, one dish that immediately comes to mind is the tantalizing Beef Tongue (gyutan/牛タン) that captivates the taste buds of many food enthusiasts. Simply grilled over charcoal, sprinkled with salt, and savored with its crispy yet tender texture and savory flavor, it pairs exceptionally well with steamed rice, beef tail soup, and pickled side dishes, creating the irresistible Gyutan set meal that has become a must-try for many tourists visiting Japan.
In Sendai, you’ll find renowned establishments like “Aji Tasuke” and “Umami Tasuke,” believed to be the pioneers of grilled beef tongue. Additionally, there are popular chain restaurants like “Rikyu” with branches throughout the country and local favorite “Kisuke.” Take advantage of your visit to Sendai and savor the delectable offerings from these fascinating beef tongue restaurants all at once!
These 3 Sendai Restaurants Show Why You Can’t Miss Japan’s Local Delicacies
Sendai Beef
(Photo: PIXTA)
In addition to Beef Tongue, another luxurious delicacy not to be missed when visiting Sendai is the esteemed Sendai Beef, known as one of Japan’s premium beef varieties.
Sendai Beef is a brand of beef from Miyagi Prefecture, and only the beef that is carefully raised and passes strict inspections can be certified as Sendai Beef. It boasts a meat quality grade of “A5” or “B5,” with a perfect distribution of lean meat and marbling, offering a tender and rich flavor that is truly irresistible.
Throughout Sendai City, you can find numerous yakiniku (grilled meat) restaurants that serve high-quality beef, including Sendai Beef. For example, “S…