Where to Eat in Nikko: 10 Best Restaurants
Here’s something cool: Nikko’s Toshogu Shrine is one of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage sites!
But this town isn’t just about history. Its food scene is packed with amazing finds too. From hearty traditional meals to creative vegan dishes, there’s plenty to try. You’ll find cozy spots to unwind and flavors you won’t forget.
So, ready for a taste of Nikko? Here are the best restaurants to eat in Nikko in 2025.
10 Best Restaurants in Nikko Japan
Well, what are you waiting for? Let’s get straight to our list of the best restaurants in Nikko!
1. Shizen Saryo Meguri
- Opening Hours: 10AM to 5PM (Closed Tuesdays)
- Price: ¥2,000
- Address: 6-3-22 Gokoumachi, Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture
This cafe feels like a hidden gem. It’s inside a beautifully restored Taisho-era building, and the vibe is calm and welcoming.
The menu? Fully vegan. Seasonal veggies, grains, and fruits are used in every dish. Their home-roasted coffee is simple but perfect. The sweets? Delicious without being over the top.
This is the spot to recharge after a busy day. So sit down, relax, and enjoy food that feels good.
2. Gyoshintei
- Opening Hours: 11AM to 7PM (Winter: 11:30AM to 7PM, Closed Thursdays)
- Price: ¥3,000–¥5,000
- Address: 2339-1 Sannai, Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture
Gyoshintei focuses on shojin ryori, the old style vegan food of Buddhist monks. This way of eating skips all animal products, garlic and onion ‒ using fresh veggies, tofu and wild mushrooms instead.
At Gyoshintei folks enjoy a full meal while looking at Nikko’s calm forest views. Their menu changes every month with seasonal goodies and the barley rice bowl with fresh yuba is a big hit.
Indeed, it’s a quiet place for a special and thoughtful meal.
3. Komekichi Kozushi
- Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Closed Thursdays)
- Price: ¥1,900–¥20,400
- Address: 9-1 Matsubaracho, Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture
Komekichi Kozushi is a snug sushi spot famous for its top-notch, fresh seafood and old school methods. This family run place offers a friendly vibe ‒ great for visitors wanting a real dining experience.
With an English menu and warm smiles, it feels like home here. The sushi platters especially the seasonal treats, are a real standout. Doesn’t matter if you love sushi or are just trying Japanese food culture, this spot gives you a meal to remember.
4. Hippari Dako
- Opening Hours: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Price: ¥1,000–¥2,000
- Address: 1011 Kamihatsuishimachi, Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture
Hippari dako is a beloved spot near Nikko’s famous shrines, serving affordable and delicious Japanese comfort food.
Their Japanese food menu includes yakitori, yakisoba, and udon, all cooked with a homey touch. Visitors love the quirky interior, where the walls are covered in notes and memorabilia left by travelers worldwide. The friendly staff and casual vibe make it a great stop for a relaxed, satisfying meal.
It’s a must-visit for hearty food with a personal touch!
5. Ramen Bonten Nikko
- Opening Hours: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Price: ¥1000–¥1,500
- Address: 264-1 Matsubaracho, Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture
In Nikko, the go-to location for a consoling bowl of ramen is Ramen Bonten Nikko. Offering something for every taste, the restaurant is well-known for its thick and savory tonkotsu and miso broths.
Most tourists like it because of quick service and a handy location close to Nikko Station. Their homemade noodles and well cooked gyoza also accentuate the appeal of their dinner.
Take it from us, this place will not let you down whether your taste in ramen is sophisticated or casual dining.
6. The Japanese Restaurant by The Ritz-Carlton Nikko
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM-11:00 AM, 12:00 PM-3:00 PM, 5:00 PM-10:00 PM
- Price: ¥10,000+
- Address: 2482 Chugushi, Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture
Against the calm surroundings of Lake Chuzenji, this restaurant presents a great dining experience with its elegant kaiseki food.
Every meal highlights traditional Japanese methods and seasonal Japanese foods, so acting as a piece of art. Special events would be perfect for this experience since the beautiful décor and dedicated service improve it. Fresh yuba and exquisitely presented sashimi highlight the chef’s talent.
For those looking for authenticity and refinement, this is absolutely must-visit.
7. Bar de Nikko Kujira Shokudo
- Opening Hours: 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays, Specific schedules on Mondays)
- Price: ¥1,000–¥3,000
- Address:1041-1 Kamihatsuishimachi, Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture
In a laid-back pub-like setting, Bar de Nikko Kujira Shokudo blends Western and Japanese tastes. There is something for everyone on a menu ranging from inventive small appetizers to substantial dinners.
Their large assortment of beverages, which includes nearby craft breweries, is much appreciated by guests. An evening hangout would be ideal here because of the courteous personnel and inviting atmosphere. This place won’t let you down whether your food is a simple snack or a whole dinner.
8. Nikko Guruman’s Wagyu
- Opening Hours: Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM (Closed Wednesdays)
- Price Range: ¥10,000+
- Address: 1541-297 Tokorono, Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture
Nikko Guruman’s Wagyu is a premier destination for steak enthusiasts, offering a selection of high-quality Japanese beef, including Maesawa, Matsusaka, and Tochigi Wagyu. The restaurant’s interior features furniture created from local Nikko cedar, resulting in a warm, inviting, and authentically Japanese atmosphere.
Guests can enjoy set menus that include appetizers, soup, salad, a choice of filet mignon or sirloin steak served on a sizzling hot plate, and dessert. An extensive wine cellar complements the dining experience.
It’s a good thing that credit cards are accepted, but reservations are recommended due to the restaurant’s popularity.
9. Sakaeya Nikko
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays)
- Price: ¥200–¥1,000
- Address: 10-1 Matsubaracho, Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture
Renowned Japanese sweets business Sakaeya is just a few meters from the Tobu-Nikko Station door. Originally opened in 1958, this Japanese food stall is well-known for its Age Yuba Manju, a deep-fried bun stuffed with sweet red bean paste, wrapped in yuba (tofu skin), and salted.
This special treat is a must-try for those looking for a real local delicacy since it presents a wonderful mix of sweet and savory tastes.
10. Lakehouse by The Ritz-Carlton Nikko
- Opening Hours: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Price Range: ¥10,000+
- Address: 2482 Chugushi, Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture
Lakehouse, inspired by the charm of a lakeside boathouse retreat, offers a serene dining experience in Nikko. Nestled in the courtyard of hotel Ritz Carlton, it serves Western cuisine crafted with locally sourced ingredients from Tochigi’s fields and farms.
The chefs bring nostalgia to the table with heart-warming family-style dishes, prepared with care. Also, the tranquil atmosphere and thoughtful menu make Lakehouse an inviting space for a meal that feels both familiar and extraordinary.
Final Thoughts: Best Restaurants in Nikko
As you can see in our list of the best restaurants in Nikko, the area is a melting pot of amazing food, from traditional meals to unique vegan options.
Want to discover more hidden gems in Japan? Explore our other Japanese food guides and restaurant lists here at Jasumo!
