Tabelog ratingKurosaki Inakaan Hibiya (黒崎 田舎庵 日日屋) has earned its reputation as a top unagi destination in Kitakyushu through a distinctive grilling method. The chefs repeatedly fold and sear the eel over high heat, using occasional sprays of water to control the process. This creates a beautifully crisp, caramelised skin while leaving the meat inside exceptionally fluffy and tender.
Guests consistently praise both the classic grilled eel over rice (unaju or kabayaki) and the regional specialty, seiro-mushi, where the eel is steamed with seasoned rice in a bamboo box. The rice itself is a frequent highlight, described as perfectly hot, fragrant, and often refillable. Other popular choices include the unseasoned, plain-grilled shirayaki and savoury liver skewers (kimoyaki). Portions are considered generous, with classic Ume, Take, and Matsu sizing available.
As a popular restaurant, it has some expected drawbacks. Waits are common, with a kiosk system for queuing, and reservations are not accepted on weekends. Popular items like the liver skewers can sell out early in the day. While service is generally good, a few isolated reports mention mix-ups or less attentive service for solo diners.
Most reviewers find the restaurant offers excellent value, with many calling it worth a long detour. A typical meal costs between ¥3,000 and ¥4,000. Reviewers recently paid around ¥4,200–¥4,800 for a Unaju (Take) set and ¥3,400 for a seiro-mushi (Take). The sought-after kimoyaki skewers cost about ¥980.
- Getting There: The restaurant is a short walk (274 meters) from Kurosaki Ekimae station.
- Reservations: Walk-ins are standard. A limited number of reservations are accepted on weekdays, but not on weekends or public holidays, when seating is first-come, first-served. Queues are common.
- Payment: Credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex) and PayPay are accepted. Electronic money is not accepted.
- Family: Children and strollers are welcome.
- Practical Tips: An English menu is available. There are no private rooms. The entire restaurant is non-smoking. There is no dedicated parking; guests should use nearby paid car parks.
