3 Must-Try Restaurants in Wakayama

Wakayama is a hidden gem in Japan, known for its beautiful nature, rich history, and amazing local cuisine. If you’re visiting, here are three fantastic dining spots to check out! 1. Café de Mamma（カフェドマンマ） 📍 Address: 1590-40 Hanida, Minabe-cho, Hidaka-gun, Wakayama 645-0004, Japan Famous for: Homemade Italian-style dishes & stunning coastal views Café de Mamma is a charming seaside café offering delicious Italian-inspired meals made with locally sourced ingredients. Their pasta and pizza are especially popular, with flavors that highlight the freshness of Wakayama’s produce. The cozy atmosphere and breathtaking ocean views make it a perfect spot for a relaxing meal. Whether you’re enjoying a cup of coffee or a full-course lunch, this café is a great place to unwind. 2. Sabō Chinchoan Hongu Branch（茶房珍重庵 本宮店） 📍 Address: 195-3 Hongu, Hongu-cho, Tanabe-shi, Wakayama 647-1731, Japan Famous for: Traditional Japanese sweets & matcha Located near the famous Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine, Sabō Chinchoan is a must-visit for those who love Japanese desserts. This traditional tea house specializes in warabi mochi, a soft and chewy jelly-like sweet made from bracken starch, coated in roasted soybean flour. Pair it with matcha or hojicha (roasted green tea) for an authentic taste of Japan. After exploring the spiritual sites of the Kumano region, this is the perfect place to rest and enjoy a moment of tranquility. 3. Nemunoki Shokudo（ねむの木食堂） 📍 Address: 1-2 Masago, Nakahechi-cho, Tanabe-shi, Wakayama 646-1415, Japan Famous for: Healthy homemade meals with local ingredients Nemunoki Shokudo is a cozy countryside restaurant known for its healthy and wholesome Japanese meals. They use fresh, locally grown vegetables and seasonal ingredients to create simple yet delicious dishes. The menu often includes teishoku (set meals) with grilled fish, miso soup, and homemade pickles. The warm hospitality and homely atmosphere make it a wonderful place to experience the slow-paced lifestyle of rural Wakayama. From scenic cafés to traditional sweets and farm-to-table meals, Wakayama offers a rich variety of food experiences. Be sure to visit these spots on your next trip! #celebrateit