Tabelog ratingNomuka + cafe (ノムカ+cafe) is a stylish Italian-Japanese izakaya in Fukuoka’s Meinohama area that operates as a bustling cafe for lunch and a lively bar for dinner. It has earned a loyal following for two things in particular: its outstanding value lunch sets and a show-stopping carbonara prepared at the table in a hollowed-out cheese wheel.
Reviewers consistently praise the lunch sets, which many return for repeatedly. These typically include a large, varied appetizer and salad platter, soup, refillable warm baguette, a main pasta dish, dessert, and a drink, with recent guests paying around ¥1,450–¥1,680. The fresh, chewy pasta is a highlight, as is the rich carbonara. For dinner, popular choices include steak tagliata and dishes with asari clams. Typical dinner spend is around ¥3,000–¥4,000 per person.
However, visitors should be aware of frequent operational issues. Many diners report slow service and long waits, with one guest waiting an hour just for their salad. Other complaints include a confusing QR code ordering system and, more recently, reports of staff holding loud, inappropriate conversations within earshot of guests and isolated hygiene concerns. While the lunch sets are widely considered excellent value, some find dinner less so due to drink prices and smaller portion sizes.
- Getting There: The restaurant is a 5-minute walk from the south exit of Meihama Station.
- Reservations: Booking ahead is strongly recommended, as tables fill up quickly, especially for lunch. A 2.5-hour seating limit may apply during busy periods.
- Payment: Credit cards and PayPay are accepted. Other forms of electronic money are not. A cover charge (otoshi) of ¥200 per person applies in the evening.
- Children: Children are welcome.
- Seating: There are 46 seats, including 10 at the counter. Private rooms are not available.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No dedicated parking is available, but there are paid parking lots nearby.
