Yokohama offers a diverse and exciting culinary scene that reflects its rich history and cosmopolitan influences. Here are some must-try foods when visiting the city:
1. Sanmamen (Yokohama-Style Ramen)
This unique ramen dish is made with thin noodles in a light soy-based broth, topped with stir-fried vegetables such as cabbage, mushrooms, and bean sprouts. It’s a comforting, flavorful dish that originated from Yokohama’s Chinatown.
2. Gyunabe (Beef Hot Pot)
A hearty beef hot pot that features thinly sliced beef, tofu, and vegetables simmered in a flavorful soy-based broth. It’s a traditional dish that dates back to the Meiji era and offers a warming experience, especially during colder months.
3. Spaghetti Napolitan
A Japanese twist on pasta, Spaghetti Napolitan was created at the Hotel New Grand in Yokohama. The dish consists of spaghetti stir-fried with ketchup, sausages, and vegetables, offering a taste of post-war Japan and a nostalgic comfort food.
4. Doria
Doria is a gratin-like dish made with rice, seafood or meat, béchamel sauce, and cheese, baked until golden and bubbling. It combines Japanese and Western culinary traditions and was invented at the Hotel New Grand.
5. Shumai (Steamed Dumplings)
Yokohama’s version of shumai, or steamed dumplings, is popular in Chinatown. These dumplings are typically filled with ground pork and served with a tangy dipping sauce. Kiyoken, a famous restaurant in the city, is known for its high-quality shumai.
6. Kenchin-jiru
This traditional tofu and vegetable chowder has roots dating back to the Kamakura period. It is made by simmering tofu with root vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth, offering a comforting dish that showcases Japan’s culinary heritage.
7. Taiwanese Black Pepper Bun (Koshou Mochi)
Found in Yokohama’s Chinatown, these buns are filled with a spicy pork mixture and baked in a traditional oven, resulting in a crispy outer layer and a juicy interior. They offer a perfect balance of savory and spicy flavors.
8. Pudding à la Mode
A Japanese-style custard pudding, often served with whipped cream, fresh fruits, and sometimes a slice of cake, Pudding à la Mode is a delightful dessert with a nostalgic twist that originated in Yokohama.
9. Kirin Beer
Yokohama is the birthplace of Kirin Beer, one of Japan’s most popular beers. Visitors can tour the Kirin Brewery in the city to learn about the brewing process and enjoy tasting a variety of beers.
10. Street Food in Chinatown
Yokohama’s Chinatown is a haven for street food lovers. You can enjoy a range of snacks like:
- Yaki Shoronpo: Pan-fried soup dumplings.
- Age Goma Dango: Deep-fried sesame balls filled with sweet red bean paste.
- Annindofu: A refreshing apricot kernel milk pudding.
These are just a few highlights of the delicious and diverse food culture in Yokohama, combining traditional Japanese flavors with international influences, making it a food lover's paradise.
