The Best Restaurants in Shiga

Mar 27, 2023

The Best Restaurants in Shiga

Although it’s less well known than some other prefectures in Kansai, there’s plenty in Shiga to make it a top tourist destination. In addition to the massive Lake Biwa, it has a greater percentage of national parks than any other prefecture in the country. It is home to Hikone Castle, one of only four national treasure castles.

Shiga also has a distinct cuisine. The prefecture is famous for Omi beef, whereas the freshwater lake provides crucian carp for fermented sushi prepared in an ancient style. Meanwhile, Hikone has its own version of champon (a noodle dish), and Nagahama specializes in somen noodles with grilled mackerel. In addition, northern Shiga has several local dishes, including mallard in nabe (a sort of hotpot), mallard sukiyaki, and tsukemono (preserved vegetables) made with root crops. Several restaurants stand out as the best to try this cuisine.

Sennaritei Kyara

One of the best places to try Omi beef in Shiga is Sennaritei Kyara. Located near Hikone Castle, it’s the ideal place to stop after some sightseeing. Particularly popular is the sukiyaki hotpot, which is served in the traditional Kansai style. Although the meals at this restaurant may be considered expensive to some, the level of quality makes this restaurant a good value, hands down.

Address: 2-1-7 Honmachi, Hikone, Shiga
Open hours: 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. (closed Tuesdays)

Miiderachikaramochi Honke

Miiderachikaramochi Honke is the place to go for a quick bite to eat. The restaurant is known primarily for its rice cakes and matcha. It’s also worth visiting the gallery of Otsu-e folk art upstairs.

Address: 2-1-30 Hamaotsu, Otsu, Shiga
Open hours: 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Sushikei

Famous for its mackerel sushi, you’ll also find red snapper sushi, mallard hotpot, aburi sushi, and much more on the menu at Sushikei. All the dishes have a beautiful presentation to match the high food quality. During the tourist seasons (cherry blossom and fall foliage), it’s necessary to make a reservation because the restaurant becomes packed.

Address: 988 Kinomoto, Nagahama, Shiga
Open hours: 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. (closed Wednesdays)

Chanponteisohonke Hikoneekimaehonten

Chanponteisohonke Hikoneekimaehonten is a top place to go for Omi champon. It’s completely different from Nagasaki’s original champon — it’s made with thin noodles, plenty of vegetables, and a light flavor due to about half the amount of vinegar in the original. The prices at Chanponteisohonke Hikoneekimaehonten are reasonable, especially considering the large portion sizes.

Address: 9-6 Asahimachi, Hikone, Shiga
Open hours: 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Ume no Hana Shiga Kusatsu

A top place to try dishes made of tofu and yuba (tofu skin) in Shiga is Ume no Hana Shiga Kusatsu. As the portions are small, you can order a variety for a substantial dinner or have a light lunch. It’s often worth making a reservation — you may even receive a private room. Plus, since the restaurant is on the 24th floor, you’ll have great views of the attractive town of Kusatsu.

Address: 4-32 Nishiojicho, Kusatsu, Shiga
Open hours: 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Now you know some of the best restaurants in Shiga, and you have even more reason to visit the prefecture.

663highland, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons