5 Famous Foods You’ll Find in Miyagi

While many visitors know Miyagi Prefecture for Sendai’s samurai history, Matsushima Bay’s scenic islands and the region’s stunning coastal views, the prefecture is also a paradise for food lovers. With its rich fishing grounds, fertile farmland and inventive local chefs, Miyagi serves up a blend of comforting hometown flavors and premium seafood. These five famous foods you’ll find in Miyagi are definitely worth checking out.

1. Miyagi Oysters (Kaki)

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Miyagi’s Sanriku Coast is one of Japan’s top oyster-producing regions, famous for its clean waters and plump, sweet oysters. Enjoy them raw, grilled, or fried at seaside stalls and restaurants around Matsushima Bay and Ishinomaki. Head to an oyster festival during the winter months to sample the freshest catch of the season.

2. Gyutan (Grilled Beef Tongue)

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The signature dish of Sendai, gyutan is sliced beef tongue grilled over charcoal until tender and smoky. Typically served as a set with barley rice, oxtail soup and pickles, this local favorite has been a Sendai specialty since the 1940s. Its hearty yet delicious flavor has made gyutan one of Miyagi’s most iconic comfort foods. Many restaurants now offer creative takes such as gyutan curry, stews and even sushi, but for first-time visitors, nothing beats the traditional charcoal-grilled style.

3. Zunda Mochi

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This bright green sweet treat features edamame mixed with sugar and a pinch of salt, served over soft rice cakes. Known for its natural sweetness and vibrant color, zunda mochi is a popular treat in Sendai. In recent years, it has also found new life in modern desserts like zunda ice cream, parfaits, shakes and even lattes, giving this traditional favorite a fun, contemporary twist.

4. Sasa Kamaboko

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A favorite snack in Miyagi, sasa kamaboko is a bamboo leaf–shaped fish cake made from white fish paste and grilled to perfection. The outside is lightly browned and crisp, while the inside stays soft and springy. Many shops in Miyagi offer tastings or let you grill your own, making it a fun (and delicious) souvenir stop.

5. Harako-meshi

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This beautifully presented dish from the coastal town of Watari features seasoned rice topped with tender salmon and glossy salmon roe. Harako-meshi is best enjoyed in autumn when salmon is in season. During this time, local restaurants and even train stations along the coast serve their own versions, often using freshly caught salmon from nearby rivers. With its comforting flavors and vibrant colors, harako-meshi remains a proud symbol of Miyagi’s seaside heritage.

What did you think of our list of famous foods you’ll find in Miyagi? Explore our Famous Foods in Japan series to discover other regional specialties.