Shiga Gourmet Guide – Top 10 Restaurants
1. Omi Beef Yakiniku Kadoman
Address: 9-10 Asahi-cho, Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture
Phone: +81-749-22-6029
Hours: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Last order 9:30 PM)
Closed: Tuesdays
Access: About a 15-minute walk from JR Hikone Station
Enjoy the renowned Omi beef at this yakiniku restaurant. The tender, fatty rare cuts and classic kalbi are all carefully sliced to deliver the finest flavors. The calm Japanese-style private rooms create a relaxing atmosphere perfect for business dinners or dates. This popular spot attracts both locals and tourists alike.
2. Uoharu
Address: 4-1-1 Hamaotsu, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture
Phone: +81-77-524-1993
Hours: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Closed: Wednesdays
Access: About a 5-minute walk from Keihan Hamaotsu Station
This specialty restaurant offers fresh lake fish dishes from Lake Biwa. Their signature funazushi (fermented sushi) is expertly prepared to be palatable even for those unfamiliar with fermented flavors. Seasonal fish dishes highlight the freshest catches from the lake. The calm, traditional setting is perfect for those wanting to experience Shiga’s culinary heritage.
3. Taneya Yawatabori Store
Address: 11 Uoya-cho, Omihachiman City, Shiga Prefecture
Phone: +81-748-32-3155
Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Closed: None
Access: About a 15-minute walk from Omihachiman Station
Located along the historic Yawatabori Canal in Omihachiman, this traditional Japanese sweets shop offers exquisite wagashi with a modern twist. The in-store café serves carefully brewed tea paired with seasonal sweets, making it an ideal rest stop during sightseeing. Their beautifully crafted confections are also perfect souvenirs.
4. Cafe Lotus
Address: 1-12-8 Noji, Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture
Phone: +81-77-561-5115
Hours: 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Tuesdays
Access: About a 10-minute walk from JR Kusatsu Station
A hidden gem café in Kusatsu known for its healthy lunch plates featuring fresh local vegetables. The natural and relaxing interior attracts many female customers. They also offer vegetarian options, making it a great choice for health-conscious travelers.
5. Uohide
Address: 10-6 Asahi-cho, Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture
Phone: +81-749-62-0324
Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Last order 9:30 PM)
Closed: Tuesdays
Access: About a 5-minute walk from JR Nagahama Station
A local favorite specializing in lake fish cuisine in Nagahama. You can enjoy fresh sushi and a variety of dishes made from seasonal catches. In addition to funazushi, tempura of white fish and shrimp are also popular. The cozy atmosphere makes it a welcoming place for first-time visitors.
6. Miyaketei
Address: 15-8 Shimanoseki, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture
Phone: +81-77-522-3061
Hours: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Closed: Wednesdays
Access: About a 7-minute walk from Keihan Hamaotsu Station
A long-established steakhouse beloved in Otsu. Their Omi beef steaks and shabu-shabu are juicy and packed with flavor. At the counter seats, you can enjoy the chef’s skillful preparation right in front of you. Ideal for special occasions or a luxurious meal.
7. Warajiya
Address: 2-2 Motomachi, Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture
Phone: +81-749-22-0086
Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Closed: Tuesdays
Access: About a 15-minute walk from JR Hikone Station
A traditional diner preserving local tastes, with their signature tempura set meal made from fresh, natural fish from Lake Biwa. The simple yet comforting flavors feel like home cooking, perfect to refresh you after a day of travel. The friendly owner and regular local customers create a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
8. Hanashobu
Address: 4-1-18 Moriyama, Moriyama City, Shiga Prefecture
Phone: +81-77-582-0555
Hours: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Closed: Tuesdays
Access: About a 10-minute walk from JR Moriyama Station
A kaiseki restaurant in Moriyama offering delicate flavors and beautiful presentations using seasonal ingredients. The calm Japanese-style atmosphere makes it ideal for business dinners and special occasions. The changing seasonal menus provide a luxurious experience that pleases both the eyes and palate.
9. Tsuruya Bread
Address: Naka-cho Naka 8, Omihachiman City, Shiga Prefecture
Phone: +81-748-32-2768
Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Closed: None
Access: About a 7-minute walk from Omihachiman Station
A long-established bakery in Omihachiman famous for its unique “Salad Bread,” featuring mayonnaise mixed with finely chopped pickled radish inside a soft bun. Loved by locals and tourists alike, the store is often bustling with customers eager to try this local specialty.
10. Marukin Ramen
Address: 1-6-30 Noji, Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture
Phone: +81-77-564-6262
Hours: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Closed: Irregular holidays
Access: About a 5-minute walk from JR Kusatsu Station
A traditional soy sauce ramen specialty shop in Kusatsu City. The broth made with locally sourced soy sauce has a rich flavor with a nostalgic taste. Handmade char siu and bamboo shoots complete the hearty bowl. The casual atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals.