Sendai Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Sendai. Your complete guide to dining in Sendai.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Sendai! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Sendai has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Sendai's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Sendai like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Sendai offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Sendai.
Umami Tasuke
Highly rated Japanese in Sendai with 4.2 stars from 2329 reviews.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0803 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Kokubunchō, 2-chōme−11−１１ 千松島ビル 1F
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine
Tanya Zenjirou
Highly rated Japanese in Sendai with 4.4 stars from 2998 reviews.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0021 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Chūō, 1-chōme−8−３８ ３Ｆ
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine
Kaku
Highly rated Japanese in Sendai with 4.5 stars from 2213 reviews.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0811 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Ichibanchō, 3-chōme−8−１４ 鈴喜陶器店 地下1階
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine
Rigoletto Tapas Lounge
Highly rated Italian in Sendai with 4.1 stars from 891 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0021 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Chūō, 1-chōme−6−１ Herb Sendai, 1F/2F
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Italian cuisine
CRIB JUNKIE SENDAI
Highly rated American in Sendai with 4.9 stars from 13 reviews.
📍 4-chōme-7-7 Ichibanchō, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0811, Japan
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Steak Kojiro Sendai
Highly rated Steakhouse in Sendai with 4.6 stars from 352 reviews.
📍 15-3 Tachimachi, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0822, Japan
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Steakhouse cuisine
Kotora Sendai-Ekimae
Highly rated Korean in Sendai with 4.5 stars from 1250 reviews.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0021 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Chūō, 1-chōme−6−１ Herb Sendai, 8F
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Korean cuisine
Yotsuba
Highly rated Japanese in Sendai with 4.8 stars from 743 reviews.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0803 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Kokubunchō, 2-chōme−15−２０ 2階
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine
Rikyu Sendai Station Store
Highly rated Japanese in Sendai with 4.1 stars from 1648 reviews.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0021 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Chūō, 1-chōme−1−１ 仙台駅3F牛たん通り
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine
Senreizushi
Highly rated Sushi in Sendai with 4.3 stars from 600 reviews.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0021 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Chūō, 1-chōme−1 ３階 Sendai Station
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Sushi cuisine
Zenjiro Sendai Station Gyutan Dori
Highly rated Japanese in Sendai with 4.4 stars from 2268 reviews.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0021 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Chūō, 1-chōme−1−１ ＪＲ仙台駅 ３階
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine
Restaurant Symphony
Highly rated French in Sendai with 4.3 stars from 306 reviews.
📍 1-chōme-9-1 Ichibanchō, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0811, Japan
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic French cuisine
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Sendai.
Sendai Asaichi
Highly rated International in Sendai with 4 stars from 2033 reviews.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0021 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Chūō, 3-chōme−8−５ 3F318号室
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Mori no Ichiba
Highly rated International in Sendai with 4 stars from 4539 reviews.
📍 5-chōme-2-6 Oroshimachi, Wakabayashi Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 984-0015, Japan
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Miyagi Michinoku Kaitaku Market
Highly rated International in Sendai with 4 stars from 73 reviews.
📍 2-chōme-1-18 Chūō, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0021, Japan
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Matsushima Fish Market
Highly rated Seafood in Sendai with 3.7 stars from 6011 reviews.
📍 Fugendō-4-10 Matsushima, Miyagi District, Miyagi 981-0213, Japan
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Seafood cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sendaishi Chuooroshiuri Market
Highly rated International in Sendai with 3.9 stars from 668 reviews.
📍 4-chōme-3-1 Oroshimachi, Wakabayashi Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 984-0015, Japan
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Dateuma Market
Highly rated International in Sendai with 4.5 stars from 4 reviews.
📍 2-chōme-5-2 Ichibanchō, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0811, Japan
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
㈱仙台朝市場
Highly rated International in Sendai with 3.9 stars from 39 reviews.
📍 4-chōme-3-28 Chūō, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0021, Japan
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
MEIDIYA Ichibancho
Highly rated International in Sendai with 4 stars from 237 reviews.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0811 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Ichibanchō, 1-chōme−2−２５ 仙台ＮＳビル １階
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Sendai.
TASTING TABLE PREMIUM FROZEN
Highly rated International in Sendai with 4.7 stars from 3 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Sendai Asaichi
Highly rated International in Sendai with 4 stars from 2033 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
SENDAI Tourist Information Desk (i-SENDAI)
Highly rated International in Sendai with 5 stars from 24 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
フードバンク仙台 (Food Bank Sendai)
Highly rated International in Sendai with 4.5 stars from 21 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
KIRIN BEER FACTORY
Highly rated International in Sendai with 4.5 stars from 673 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium
Highly rated International in Sendai with 4.2 stars from 11121 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Sendai.
Northfields Sendai
Highly rated Cafe in Sendai with 4.5 stars from 199 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0011 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Kamisugi, 1-chōme−4−３ 三井グローバル県庁前ビル 3階
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
HILLVALLEY COFFEE LAB.（ヒルバレー コーヒー ラボ）
Highly rated Cafe in Sendai with 4.6 stars from 89 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 3-chōme-10-21 Chūō, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0021, Japan
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
VON
Highly rated Cafe in Sendai with 4.4 stars from 119 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1-chōme-9-3 Miyagino, Miyagino Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 983-0045, Japan
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Cafe MythiQue
Highly rated Cafe in Sendai with 4.2 stars from 297 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0021 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Chūō, 2-chōme−4−１１ 水晶堂ビル 3F
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Cafe Pamplemousse
Highly rated Cafe in Sendai with 4.1 stars from 469 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0021 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Chūō, 1-chōme−7−１８ 3F
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
I'Novel coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Sendai with 4.6 stars from 43 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 2-chōme-3-44 Nishikichō, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0012, Japan
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Cafe Aoyama Bunko
Highly rated Cafe in Sendai with 4 stars from 801 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0021 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Chūō, 2-chōme−1−２７ Ｅｖｅｒ－ｉ中央 5F
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Darestore Coffee & Eatery
Highly rated Cafe in Sendai with 4.4 stars from 140 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0803 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Kokubunchō, 1-chōme−1−１１ スズキビル 1F
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Sendai.
Signature Dish
A must-try Sendai specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Sendai dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Sendai with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Sendai specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Sendai creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Sendai classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Sendai specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Sendai dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Sendai with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Sendai specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Sendai.
BAR OWL
Highly rated Bar in Sendai with 4.9 stars from 78 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0811 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Ichibanchō, 1-chōme−11−２２ ブランドール一番町 2階
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
隠れ家 Sugar
Highly rated Bar in Sendai with 4.9 stars from 82 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0803 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Kokubunchō, 2-chōme−6−９ 山路三号館 3F
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
BACKDOOR SENDAI
Highly rated Bar in Sendai with 4.9 stars from 333 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0803 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Kokubunchō, 2-chōme−1−１２ 瀬戸勝ビル 1C
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
ワンズ バー 仙台【ONE'S BAR Sendai】
Highly rated Bar in Sendai with 4.9 stars from 41 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0811 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Ichibanchō, 4-chōme−3−９ 第三藤原屋ビル B1F
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
SHOT BAR MAO Sendai
Highly rated Bar in Sendai with 4.9 stars from 67 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0021 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Chūō, 1-chōme−8−２２ グランドゥ3F
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Českoya Sendai pub
Highly rated Bar in Sendai with 4.7 stars from 107 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Japan, 〒980-0811 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Ichibanchō, 2-chōme−7−９ DK-ビル ６F
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Sendai's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Sendai vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sendai is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Sendai offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Sendai specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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