Originating centuries ago, kaiseki is an exquisite multi-course meal that highlights the beauty of seasonal ingredients. Each dish is carefully crafted not only for its taste but also for its presentation and aesthetic appeal. Often paired with fine wines or sake, kaiseki offers a harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and colors. Widely regarded as the inspiration behind Western Nouvelle Cuisine, kaiseki is a reflection of Japan’s culinary artistry and cultural refinement. Reservations required. 

https://www.viewhotelshimataya.com/restaurant

A great spot for dinner with friends, this restaurant is ideal for larger groups and gatherings. Enjoy Mediterranean tapas-style dishes, complemented by a selection of Japanese izakaya favourites on the side.

Reservations required. Cash and card accepted. 

https://www.instagram.com/hardings_nozawa/?hl=en

Suminoya is a popular yakiniku restaurant known for its high-quality wagyu, fresh seafood, and seasonal vegetables. Guests can choose individual items to grill or enjoy one of the carefully curated set menus. 

Reservations required. Cash and credit cards are accepted. 

https://www.suminoyanozawa.com/

Enjoy top-quality grilled meats at this cozy hidden gem, operated by Nozawa Onsen’s only butcher. With limited seating and an intimate atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot for a premium yakiniku experience. The restaurant also includes an on-site butcher shop. 

Reservations are required. 

https://nozawakanko.jp/spot/spot-12876/

YUGEYA (飲み食い処 ゆげや ) is a welcome addition to Nozawa Onsen, having opened last season. The restaurant serves a variety of ramen, pork rice bowls, and side dishes in a casual setting. 

Walk-ins only. Cash and credit cards are accepted. 

https://yugeya.my.canva.site/

Sourdough pizzeria using local ingredients, great for takeaway or eat in. Gluten-free and vegetarian options available.

Reservations recommended. Cash and credit cards are accepted.

https://www.gochisoupizzabar.com/

 Based in Iiyama, this family run restaurant offers a unique dining experience based in a refurbished 170-year-old 'Kominka'
You can enjoy Okinawan cuisine made from local ingredients, prepared fresh by the family. A shuttle service is included for a fee or free of charge for a 6-13 guests when purchasing the set course. A local experience not to be missed!

Cash and card accepted

https://www.instagram.com/kominka.paipatiroma/

A great burger spot just off Nozawa Onsen’s main street, offering freshly made burgers in a cozy, compact space. Choose to dine in or take your meal to go. 

Walk-ins only. Cash and credit cards are accepted. 

https://www.genkiburger.com/

Enjoy grilled skewers and traditional oden in one of Nozawa Onsen’s most unique dining venues. Once an entertainment theatre, the space has been transformed into a lively restaurant where guests can grill a variety of skewers on a communal barbecue.

Cash only. 

https://nozawa-jiyugekijo.com/en

Committed to a sustainable “farm-to-table” philosophy, the restaurant works closely with local, small-scale organic producers to source the finest seasonal ingredients. Drawing inspiration from the abundance of local produce and wild mountain vegetables found throughout the region, the chef creates a distinctive dining experience that celebrates the unique flavors of Nozawa Onsen. Every dish is thoughtfully crafted to showcase these ideals and leave guests with a truly memorable culinary experience. 

Reservations required.

https://st-anton.jp/en/dine/

Tsukushinbo is a traditional local izakaya located in the basement of Tokiwaya Ryokan, just beside Oyu Onsen. The menu features a variety of snacks and light meals that highlight the region’s fresh local produce, including grilled iwana (char), Shinshu salmon, and a selection of sashimi sourced from the Sea of Japan, as well as horse sashimi. It’s a great place to experience local Japanese cuisine. 

Reservations required

https://en.nozawaski.com/shop_restaurant/2194/

Jugem is a locally loved restaurant that specializes in Chinese and other Japanese cuisine. It offers a warm, intimate setting that makes it popular among both locals and visitors to the village.

Open everyday 6PM - 10:30PM

Walk in only. Cash and card accepted. 

https://www.instagram.com/jugemu_nozawa/

Wakagiri is a Japanese restaurant just off Oyu Street, next to Marumiya Stationery Shop. With table seating and a spacious tatami area, it's a comfortable spot. The menu includes sushi, soba, ramen, salads, and great-value set meals, plus a range of vegetarian and vegan options available on a separate menu.

Reservation needed for dinner. Cash and card accepted.

https://wakagiri.jp/

A great place to dine with a group of friends. This interactive dining experience features a hotplate in the center of the table, where you can cook a variety of delicious meats and vegetables yourself. A selection of side dishes is also available to enjoy alongside your meal.

Reservations required.

https://www.tablecheck.com/ja/yakiniku-banri

A popular ramen bar offering a wide selection of side dishes, with vegetarian and vegan options available. 

Open until late.

Walk ins and reservations. Cash and card accepted.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100042715857138

A new addition to Nozawa Onsen's gastronomy scene, this restaurant is inspired by the themes of fire and water that define Nozawa, and serves a course dinner cooked over a wood fire.

"As you enjoy the gentle crackle and aroma of burning firewood,

our dishes highlight the natural flavors of local Nozawa Onsen and Shinshu ingredients, brought out through careful wood-fire cooking."

The menu changes with the seasons, focusing on the ingredients that are at their best at that time of year. Mont alternates between French course dining and Cocktail and wood smoked snack Bistro.

https://mont-nozawaonsen.com/en/dine/

BB Factory is a cosy burger restaurant located near Nakao at the far end of town. Known for its fresh, hearty burgers and cold beers, it's a great spot for a casual meal after a day on the slopes.

Walk in only. English and Japanese.

https://www.instagram.com/bbfactory_nozawa/

Small Italian restaurant run by a local couple, serving pizza, pasta and a variety of appetizers. 

Dishes are made fresh to order, expect a small wait time, they serve a good selection of wines. 

Reservations required.

http://www.kazenoie.info/

Wagyutei is located above Stay Bar on the main street, Oyu Dori. It serves traditional Japanese sukiyaki and shabu-shabu with a range of Wagyu beef options, from affordable cuts to premium selections. It is a great choice for large groups.

Reservations required.

https://en.nozawaski.com/shop_restaurant/2241/

Juntos is a small eatery offering tacos, burritos and various rice bowls. Popular for their cocktails and variety of Tequila and Mezcal.

Walk ins and reservations. Cash and card accepted.

https://www.facebook.com/Juntosmexican/

Winterland has 12 rotating taps of craft beer, cider and seltzer as well as a stocked can fridge. Enjoy Winterland’s famous gyoza, including their signature Nozawana gyoza with locally-sourced Nozawana and original vegan-friendly vegetarian gyoza made especially for Winterland. Also hosts a great happy hour!

Reservations recommended. Cash and card accepted.

https://winterlandlodge.com/taproom-restaurant/

Located around a 10-15 minute walk from Oyu street. Enjoy handmade pasta and risotto, appetizers such as prosciutto and salad, main dishes of steak and fish, desserts such as tiramisu, and natural Italian wines.

Reservations required. Cash and card accepted.

https://lit.link/en/trattoriabivacco2019

A cozy teppan-yaki bar and restaurant. The menu has hearty, satisfying dishes, try the Cheese Modan-yaki, a generous combination of savory pancake, noodles, and egg, for a filling meal. 

Walk in only. Cash only.

https://tabelog.com/nagano/A2001/A200105/20007933/

Sumonabe is a popular izakaya known for its signature hot pots crafted from locally sourced ingredients. 

Cash and card accepted.

https://www.instagram.com/sumo_nabe/?hl=en

Kongo is a great foodcourt-style venue with 6 different shops selling everything from thai curries, and crispy gyoza to traditional handmade jyuwari (wheat free) soba. The building- a former steel works- is huge and there are more than 100 seats. The centre piece of the building is a huge replica of the Nozawa onsen fire festival “shaden” – a temple-like structure that towers over the ground floor tables. It has something for the whole family and is a must see while in Nozawa.

https://en.nozawaski.com/shop_restaurant/2183/

A cozy, family-run restaurant in Nozawa Onsen serving a unique mix of homemade pizzas, hearty pasta, and classic Japanese comfort dishes in a warm, relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular choice for casual lunches and dinners after a day on the slopes. 

https://tabelog.com/nagano/A2001/A200105/20001960/

Modern steakhouse in Nozawa Onsen serving premium steaks, gourmet burgers, and hearty Western favorites. With quality ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere, it's a popular spot for a satisfying meal after a day on the mountain. 

https://www.facebook.com/thecornersteakhouse/

A traditional sushi restaurant in Nozawa Onsen, serving fresh sushi, sashimi, and seasonal Japanese specialties crafted with quality local ingredients. Its authentic atmosphere and attentive service make it a favorite for a classic Japanese dining experience. 

https://tabelog.com/nagano/A2001/A200105/20000017/

Tengu Sushi and enjoy Edo style sushi made with fresh local ingredients and traditional techniques. A truly unique sushi experience!

https://www.staynozawa.com/venues/tengu-sushi

Hatano, located in Iiyama just a 15-minute drive from Nozawa Onsen, offers kaiseki cuisine crafted with seasonal ingredients and a strong emphasis on locally sourced produce. Each dish is designed to showcase the region's flavors and traditions, allowing guests to experience the stories behind the ingredients and the people who produce them.

Taxi and dinner reservations required. 

https://kominka-washoku.com/english/