Fukuoka Unagi Don 2026 | 8 Shops in Hakata & Nakasu

うな善

うなぎ処 山道

Located in the Yakuin area of Chuo Ward, Fukuoka City, 【うなぎ処 山道】 (Unagi Shop Yamamichi) is a restaurant directly operated by the Miyazaki Yamamichi eel farm. It feels as if the warm sunshine and clear spring water of southern Kyushu have been packed together, with each eel dish served on the table filled with the craftsman's dedication and commitment to the ingredients.

“ひむか山道うなぎ” (Himuka Yamamichi Unagi) is their exclusive brand of farmed eel, using a special farming technique known as the “Yamamichi method.” This method simulates the natural environment, strictly controlling water quality and temperature, allowing the eels to grow in a healthy and comfortable environment. The meat is rich yet not greasy, melting in your mouth with a strong natural sweetness. To bring out this deliciousness to the fullest, the restaurant insists on using Miyazaki's Misato's Unanma Binchotan charcoal, grilling the eel using a traditional method.

This traditional grilling method gives the eel a crispy skin and tender inside, paired with a thin layer of Kyushu-style mildly sweet sauce, creating a perfect balance of aroma and texture in every bite. The signature dish “うな重” (Unaju) is a classic, with eel laid over soft, sticky white rice, accompanied by a refreshing liver soup and the sun-dried pickles from Miyazaki's Taneyamacho called “日向漬” (Hyuga-zuke), simple yet full of layers, making it irresistible to take bite after bite.

The popular dish “ひつまぶし” (Hitsumabushi) is a favorite among gourmets. The first way to enjoy it is to taste it in its original flavor, experiencing the pure deliciousness of the eel; the second way is to sprinkle it with chopped green onions and sansho pepper for a refreshing flavor; the third way is to add broth to transform it into a chazuke, with the rich aroma of eel blooming in the soup, leaving a lasting aftertaste. Additionally, the restaurant also offers individual dishes like “白焼き” (Shirayaki) and “肝焼き” (Kimo-yaki), paired with local Miyazaki shochu from the long-established Kuroki Honten, such as “百年の孤独” (Hyakunen no Kodoku) or “山ねこ” (Yamaneko), creating a perfect intertwining of taste and mild intoxication. The restaurant's attention to detail is also impressive, even the water used for cooking is selected from the natural water of the Osumi Mountains, with mineral-rich soft water enhancing the flavor of each dish.

うなぎ処 山道 perfectly blends Miyazaki's local culture with eel culture, allowing every guest to experience the warmth and purity of southern Kyushu on their palate.

Hakata Meidai Yoshizuka Unagiya

Located in Nakasu, Hakata, "Hakata Meidai Yoshizuka Unagiya," established in the sixth year of the Meiji era (1873), is calling food lovers! This long-established eel restaurant has stood in the fierce culinary battleground for nearly 150 years, becoming a must-visit gastronomic sanctuary in Fukuoka thanks to its extreme selectiveness for eel and unique grilling techniques. Not only do locals flock here, but even Japanese celebrities like Tamori have publicly praised the eel here as "the best in Japan," and SMAP even made a special visit during their tour in Fukuoka!

The atmosphere inside the restaurant exudes a strong traditional Japanese shop vibe, with wooden decor and tatami rooms radiating warmth. The second floor features hall seating, while the third floor has private rooms that require reservations (a 10% fee applies for private rooms). During busy times, there are always diners waiting outside, so it's recommended to avoid the lunch peak; visiting after 3 PM may shorten your waiting time.

The signature dish "Unaju" at Yoshizuka Unagiya uses carefully selected domestic eel from Shizuoka, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima, ensuring that each eel is rich and juicy. Their original grilling technique called "Konashi" makes the eel's skin crispy and fragrant while keeping the inside tender, melting in your mouth and leaving you amazed.

Paired with a secret sauce passed down since the establishment, which is slightly sweet and rich in soy flavor, it perfectly highlights the freshness of the eel, making every bite a taste of happiness. In addition to Unaju, the eel chazuke (eel rice soup) and the vinegared dish made with grilled eel and Tosa vinegar are also quite popular, offering a refreshing and appetizing flavor.

For those who enjoy drinking, why not order a glass of draft beer to accompany the crispy grilled eel bones? It's simply a heavenly experience! Moreover, Yoshizuka Unagiya's commitment to detail is admirable. From the water quality for eel farming to the selection of feed, every step is meticulously refined to ensure consistent flavor. Come on, let the century-old craftsmanship of Yoshizuka Unagiya take you on a journey to taste the soul of Fukuoka!

うなぎ仁 福岡本店

Located in the Chuo District of Fukuoka City, うなぎ仁 福岡本店 (Unagi Jin Fukuoka Main Store) is a restaurant focused on eel dishes, boasting top-quality eel directly sourced from Kagoshima. With an elegant atmosphere reminiscent of a sukiya-style tea house, every gourmet can experience the dedication of the artisans and their commitment to the ingredients on their palate.

うなぎ仁 uses high-quality eel from the Osumi region of Kagoshima. These eels are raised in special farms under long-term, almost demanding conditions, resulting in rich yet non-greasy meat that melts in your mouth. The signature dish, うな重 (Unaju), is a must-try, available in four levels: regular, superior, special superior, and top superior, differing in the portion of eel, allowing you to choose based on your appetite or desire. The eel is freshly killed and expertly grilled by seasoned chefs, with a crispy golden skin and tender, juicy interior. Drizzled with a secret sauce, the sweet and savory flavors burst in your mouth, perfectly paired with fluffy white rice—it's simply divine!

In addition to the classic eel rice, the restaurant's 白焼き (Shirayaki) is also favored by connoisseurs. This method, which involves slow grilling over charcoal without any sauce, perfectly showcases the original flavor of the eel, served alongside wasabi or salt for a refreshing yet lingering taste. If you want to sample various flavors at once, consider trying the 雅コース (Miyabi Course), which includes multiple eel dishes such as Shirayaki and Kabayaki, priced at around 9,000 yen, allowing you to fully appreciate the versatile charm of eel. The restaurant also offers seasonal side dishes and sake, such as refreshing eel liver soup, enriching the overall dining experience.

The name "仁" (Jin) represents sincerity towards customers and a love for eel, and this original intention makes each dish feel like a work of art. The restaurant is conveniently located about a 2-minute walk from Yakuin-Odori Station, easily accessible yet away from the hustle and bustle, perfect for those looking for a tranquil culinary corner in Fukuoka City. Please note that due to limited eel supply, the restaurant may occasionally operate on a reservation basis, so it is advisable to confirm in advance.

愛とうなぎ

Located in Chuo Ward, Fukuoka City, just a three-minute walk from Ohori Park Station, "愛とうなぎ" (Love and Eel) has been breaking the stereotype of eel cuisine since its opening in December 2020 with its philosophy of "love and vitality." The trendy and casual atmosphere allows every diner to easily enjoy a delicious eel feast.

The owner, Kimiya Kazuhiro, was originally a sushi chef at "鮨料理 一高" (Sushi Restaurant Ikko), and his dedication to rice is exceptional. He often says, "Sushi chefs understand cooking rice better than any other profession!" Therefore, the rice here is definitely one of the stars, made from organic rice from Saga Prefecture that is free of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, cooked in a Nanbu iron pot (南部鉄器) on demand, resulting in distinct, fragrant, and soft grains that are so delicious even when cold that you'll want to have another bowl!

The eel is carefully selected from domestic sources, primarily from Osumi in Kagoshima, and grilled over high-temperature binchotan charcoal mixed with three types of charcoal, giving it a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior. Drizzled with the restaurant's homemade rich sauce, the pairing with white rice is a match made in heaven, and the moment it enters your mouth, the aroma fills the air, making you unable to help but smile with satisfaction!

The signature dish is the "うな丼一本" (Eel Rice Bowl), featuring thick slices of eel generously laid over the rice, accompanied by miso soup made with dried sweetfish from Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, and kelp—simple yet full of details. It is recommended to try adding salmon roe or yam puree for an extra surprise to your eel rice! In the evening, the restaurant transforms into an eel izakaya, offering eel skewers and a la carte dishes, along with an all-you-can-drink plan featuring eight to ten types of Japanese sake that change monthly, allowing you to enjoy eel while savoring sake in a relaxed and pleasant setting.

ひつまぶし和食備長 中洲川端店

Located on the first floor of the Hakataza Nishi Gin Building, directly connected to Nakasu Kawabata Station in Fukuoka City, ひつまぶし和食備長 中洲川端店 is renowned for its authentic Nagoya-style grilled eel rice, perfectly blending traditional Japanese grilling techniques with the essence of washoku. The restaurant is conveniently located next to Hakata Riverain, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a hearty meal after shopping or watching a play.

The eel rice is grilled using the Binchotan charcoal technique, selecting high-quality eels with thin skin and rich fat content. There is no steaming involved; the eels are grilled directly over high heat, preserving their natural elasticity and fragrant oils. The skin is crispy and golden, while the inside remains tender and juicy, complemented by a secret sweet and savory sauce made from premium Aichi Prefecture soy sauce, sugar, and mirin, creating an aromatic burst that is mouthwatering.

The recommended way to enjoy the eel rice here is: in the first bowl, savor the pure flavor of the eel to experience its delicate texture; in the second bowl, add chopped green onions, nori, and wasabi for a refreshing layer; and in the third bowl, pour over the special broth to transform it into eel chazuke, warm and smooth with an unforgettable aftertaste. In addition to eel rice, the restaurant also offers "Shirayaki" (grilled eel), which, after being grilled with Binchotan charcoal, is served with white soy sauce and wasabi, highlighting the natural sweetness of the eel, making it a simple yet luxurious treat. Furthermore, kaiseki cuisine, tempura, and seasonal vegetables are also available, showcasing the diverse charm of Japanese cuisine.

The restaurant's dedication to ingredients is impressive; the eels are not limited to a specific origin but are selected based on the best quality and rich fat content; the rice is chosen from environmentally friendly new rice, cooked to perfection with distinct grains that perfectly match the eel's rich flavor. Pairing it with sake or shochu from various regions of Japan further enhances the dining experience. Whether you are an eel enthusiast or a washoku lover, Binchotan ひつまぶし和食 中洲川端店 is definitely worth a visit!

Hakata Unagi Restaurant Fujuna

Located in Hakata Ward, Fukuoka City, just a three-minute walk from Hakata Station's Chikushi Exit, "Hakata Unagi Restaurant Fujuna" showcases the owner's dedication and craftsmanship towards eel. He has trained for many years at a famous eel restaurant in Shinshu Okaya, which has been renowned since the Edo period, honing his skills in selection and cooking techniques. Each eel is delivered live directly from the source and undergoes a week-long process of "mud removal" using clear natural water to ensure it is free of any muddy taste, resulting in tender and juicy meat.

The cooking employs the Kanto-style "back opening" technique, allowing the outer meat of the eel to be thick and beautifully shaped. It is then grilled whole using the Hakata specialty "jiyaki" method, which requires no steaming and is cooked directly over high heat, resulting in crispy skin and tender meat, with an aromatic fragrance. During the process, a unique technique called "konashi" (appropriate flipping and adjusting) is used to achieve a perfect balance of crispy skin and soft interior.

The signature dish is undoubtedly the "Unagi Seiro Mushi" (Steamed Eel in a Bamboo Steamer)! This dish combines four pieces of fragrant grilled eel with rich eggs from the "Umito Yamato Kokkō" chicken farm in Saga, laid over rice soaked in a special sauce. When the steamer is lifted, steam rises, and an enticing aroma fills the air! Upon tasting, the crispy outer skin of the eel intertwines with its soft interior, complemented by the rich egg flavor and slightly sweet sauce—deliciousness that speaks for itself!

Another favorite is the "Unagi Zukushi Kaiseki" (Eel Full Course), which includes white grilled eel, kabayaki, eel chawanmushi (savory steamed egg custard), and pickled eel side dishes. Each bite is a heartfelt tribute to eel. Additionally, the restaurant offers dishes made with "Aka Hitomi" throat black fish from Nagasaki, known for its rich fat content and melt-in-your-mouth texture, making it a luxurious treat.

Don't forget the sauce at Fujuna! This exclusive recipe, which has undergone multiple "tsugi-tashi" (sauce replenishing) processes, boasts a refreshing sweet-salty flavor and a unique charcoal-grilled aroma, perfectly enhancing the rich taste of the eel. When in Hakata, don't miss the chance to let Fujuna take you on a journey to experience the ultimate charm of Japanese cuisine with a whole eel!

鰻のエイト 博多総本店

Located in Nakasu, Hakata, Fukuoka City, 鰻のエイト opened on August 1, 2023, and is carefully crafted by the Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant "Ajimi." This culinary sanctuary elevates traditional Fukuoka eel dishes to new heights! The eel selection at 鰻のエイト is exceptional, with the chef personally visiting production areas to meticulously select high-quality eels raised with care, paired with Wakami's "Wakami Jihōran" and Wakamatsu's "Yume Tsukushi" rice, presenting an astonishing texture and flavor.

The signature dish "せいろまむし御膳" (Steamed Eel Set Meal) is an absolute must-try star! Inspired by the traditional steaming method from the Chikugo region of Fukuoka, this dish creates a "うなとろっ" (soft and tender eel) texture, where the eel melts in your mouth, perfectly blending with the sweet yet not cloying Kyushu soy sauce and the soft, fragrant white rice. Notably, the set meal also comes with soft and fluffy tamagoyaki, adding a touch of warmth to the texture. You can first enjoy the pure flavors of the eel and rice, then add dashi to transform it into eel rice bowl flavor, and finally sprinkle on sansho or wasabi to experience the fun of three different ways to enjoy it!

The "鰻と牛肉の石焼き御膳" (Eel and Beef Stone Grill Set Meal) in the restaurant is also a must-try option! The steaming hot stone pot is served at your table, where the staff will shave raclette cheese right in front of you. The fragrant eel, rich beef, and smooth cheese intertwine to create a delightful experience! Another interesting dish, "ひつまむし御膳" (Eel Rice Bowl Set Meal), features grilled eel as the star, retaining a crispy exterior and tender interior, paired with small portions of tsukudani, nori, and pickles, making each bite full of layers. For dessert, Japanese mochi paired with pudding wraps up the meal perfectly, sweet but not overwhelming.

For foreign tourists, the restaurant also offers an English menu, thoughtfully catering to the needs of international food lovers. According to Google reviews, as of April 2025, 鰻のエイト has accumulated over 4,000 reviews, averaging an impressive 4.9 stars, and is loved by both local Japanese patrons and international travelers.