Tabelog ratingMAKOICHI (五島食堂マコイチ) brings the distinct culinary traditions of the Goto Islands to Fukuoka's Kiyokawa neighborhood. The restaurant's strength lies in its direct-from-the-source ingredients, particularly the seafood. The menu is built around daily deliveries, with a special focus on dishes using ago-dashi, a refined broth made from flying fish, which imparts a unique, savory depth.
Guests consistently praise the quality of the sashimi, which many compare to that of high-end seafood counters in Fukuoka or Tokyo. Other popular dishes include goma-saba (mackerel in a rich sesame sauce), saba-katsu (breaded and fried mackerel), and the ago-dashi dashi-maki tamago (rolled omelette). A signature way to end the meal is with authentic Goto udon, thin, resilient noodles that can be ordered in the hot 'jigoku-daki' style. The owner's hospitality and a curated selection of Goto shochu are also frequently highlighted.
Diners should be aware that the daily menu is handwritten in Japanese, which can be a challenge for non-speakers, though staff are described as helpful. Some reviewers also note that portions can be modest. A typical dinner costs between ¥4,000 and ¥5,000. Reviewers recently paid around ¥1,200–¥1,480 for a sashimi plate, ¥980–¥1,280 for goma-saba, and ¥1,080 for saba-katsu. Most feel the prices are justified by the high quality of the ingredients, making it excellent value for seafood aficionados.
- Getting There: The restaurant is located about 470 meters from Watanabe Dori Station.
- Reservations: Booking ahead is highly recommended, as the restaurant is small and often full.
- Menu: The daily menu is handwritten in Japanese. Staff are generally helpful, but some patience may be required.
- Payment: Credit cards are accepted, but electronic money is not. It is advisable to bring some cash.
- Seating: There are 24 seats, including counter and table seating.
- Smoking: A designated smoking area is available.
- Parking: There is no parking available.
