Japan Rankings
Japan is known for its world-class sushi and kaiseki cuisine, but for those looking to dive into soul food that's loved by locals, B-Class Gourmet (B-kyuu gurume) is where the magic happens. These dishes are affordable, comforting, and regionally unique.
Every year (except during the pandemic), local food communities from across Japan gather for the B-1 Grand Prix, a nation-wide competition where each region’s signature B-class dish battles for glory—not just for taste, but for how well it represents its town.
Here’s a look at the Top 10 from the 2019 B-1 Grand Prix held in Akashi City, Hyogo. If you’re traveling in Japan, these are must-try experiences!
What it is: Jumbo deep-fried gyoza (dumplings), often larger than your palm!
Why it's special: Originally created as a school lunch item, these gyoza are crispy, juicy, and bursting with regional flavor.
Where to try: Head to Tsu Station area restaurants like Gyoza no Osho Tsu or Tsu Gyoza Honpo.
What it is: Fried chicken (zangi) topped with a sweet-sour sauce.
Why it's special: A local twist on karaage, zantare is comfort food with a tangy punch.
Where to try: Visit Kushiro Washo Market or small izakayas around Kushiro Station.
What it is: A fluffy egg soup made by whipping eggs and pouring them into hot dashi broth.
Why it's special: Dating back to the Edo period, it's like sipping on a savory egg cloud.
Where to try: Local eateries near Fukuroi Station, or check out Fukuroi Tourism Office for guidance.
What it is: Stir-fried noodles topped with thick starchy sauce and seafood/vegetables.
Where to try: Try Otaru Beer Hall or noodle shops near the scenic Otaru Canal.
What it is: A mix of udon noodles and gyoza ingredients, fried into pancake-like rounds.
Where to try: Seek out izakayas in Takatsuki City, about 30 mins from Osaka by train.
What it is: Breaded beef cutlet over rice, covered in demi-glace sauce.
Why it's unique: It’s Hyogo’s answer to the katsudon—with Western influence.
Where to try: Restaurants around JR Kakogawa Station, including Katsumeshi Honpo.
What it is: Udon stir-fried with offal (hormone) and vegetables in a soy-based sauce.
Where to try: Visit Tsuyama Yakiniku Street or the Old Castle Town area.
What it is: Hot pot featuring pork offal and hearty vegetables.
Where to try: In Iwaizumi Town, look for retro diners and izakayas—this dish reflects local mining history.
What it is: Rice bowl with sliced roast pork and two sunny-side eggs on top, seasoned with soy sauce.
Why it’s addictive: Sweet, savory, and rich all in one bowl.
Where to try: Try Restaurant Hiranoya or Kitchen Kuroda in Imabari City.
What it is: Pork marinated in miso-based sauce, grilled over charcoal.
Where to try: Visit local BBQ joints in Izuhara on Tsushima Island (a great off-the-beaten-path trip!).
Even though this list is from 2019, these dishes remain local legends—and most haven’t gone mainstream, making them ideal for foodie travelers seeking authentic, regional tastes. If you're planning a trip to Japan and want to eat like the locals do, let this be your culinary bucket list.
📍Pro Tip: Many of these towns have local tourism offices or websites in English to help guide your food adventure. Trains and local buses will get you close—just come hungry.
Would you like this turned into a downloadable PDF or blog post layout? I can also make a map showing where to find each dish!
