Tabelog ratingUnagi Nakasho (うなぎ なか勝) has earned a devoted following for one thing: its distinctive take on grilled eel. The restaurant uses a high-heat 'ji-yaki' grilling style over premium binchotan charcoal, a method that produces an unagi with intensely crispy, charred skin—what locals call 'paripari'—and a fluffy, fatty interior. This contrast in textures is the signature of the house, drawing diners from across the region to this unassuming spot in Fukuyama.
Guests consistently praise the deep charcoal aroma and the quality of the Aichi-farmed eel. The two most popular dishes are the unajū (eel over rice in a lacquered box) and hitsumabushi, which is served with condiments and dashi broth for enjoying in stages. The tare sauce is well-balanced, sweet but focused, letting the flavour of the eel shine through. Reviewers recently paid around ¥4,850 for the unajū and between ¥4,500 and ¥4,850 for the hitsumabushi. While not inexpensive, most diners feel the generous portions and high quality justify the price.
The main drawback is the wait, which can range from 30 minutes to over two hours. The restaurant does not take reservations, and payment is strictly cash only. Some visitors also note that the intense char can be too strong for their taste, and the dining room can be smoky from the grill. However, for fans of this robust, crispy style of unagi, Unagi Nakasho is considered a top-tier experience worth the effort.
- Getting There: The restaurant is about a 10-minute drive from JR Fukuyama Station.
- Reservations: Reservations are not accepted. Arrive, add your name to the list, and expect a wait. Staff will call you when your table is ready.
- Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
- Language: The menu is in Japanese. Non-Japanese speakers report successfully ordering by pointing to photos or other diners' dishes.
- Seating: There are 27 seats, including counter seating and tatami rooms. A private room for up to 6 people is available.
- Children: Children are welcome.
- Parking: Free parking is available behind the restaurant and across the street.
- Atmosphere: The dining room can be smoky due to the charcoal grill.