Local Supporter
Recommended Restaurants in Kochi City to Taste Local Brand Meats "Shimanto Pork" and "Tosa Wagyu"

Kochi gourmet is not just about seafood. The region is also focusing on developing brand meats such as beef, pork, and chicken raised healthily in its rich natural environment. Among them, the most famous are "Shimanto Pork" and "Tosa Wagyu." Shimanto Pork is pork raised on the natural bounty of the Shimanto River basin, one of Japan's three clearest streams, and is characterized by its tenderness and strong sweetness. Tosa Wagyu refers to "Japanese Brown" and "Japanese Black" cattle produced in Kochi Prefecture. In particular, the "Tosa Akaushi" (Japanese Brown) is called the phantom Wagyu due to its low production numbers and is known for the delicious flavor of its lean meat. We have picked out restaurants in Kochi City where you can taste the deliciousness of these two Kochi-raised brand meats. Please enjoy them in a variety of ways.

Serving "Tosa Akaushi" beef raised in the Reihoku region of northern Kochi Prefecture

The "Aburi Nigiri" (seared sushi) for 650 yen is enjoyed with wasabi. Other items include "Aosa Seaweed Tempura" for 800 yen and "Deep-fried Amago Fry" for 680 yen.
The "Aburi Nigiri" (seared sushi) for 650 yen is enjoyed with wasabi. Other items include "Aosa seaweed tempura" for 800 yen and "deep-fried Amego fry" for 680 yen

This is an izakaya where you can enjoy dishes featuring ingredients from the Reihoku region of Kochi Prefecture, the owner's hometown, such as "Tosa Akaushi," flavorful parent chicken, amego (a type of river fish) raised in clear streams, and vegetables from Reihoku.

In particular, they offer a wide variety of Tosa Akaushi dishes, proposing various ways to enjoy the delicious lean meat that is characteristic of Tosa Akaushi, such as "stewed beef tendon," "seared yukhoe," and "seared thigh meat tataki." The "seared nigiri" is lightly seared to further bring out the umami, and its moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture is addictive.

We also carefully select sake from the Reihoku region that pairs perfectly with our dishes

Raised horigotatsu (sunken kotatsu) seating. The space between each table can also be partitioned with roll-down screens.
Raised tatami seating with sunken kotatsu tables. Each table can be partitioned with a roll screen

Considering the pairing with the food, the drinks are also carefully selected from breweries in the Reihoku region. They offer a unique selection of alcoholic beverages, including "Keigetsu" from the long-established "Tosa Brewing," founded in 1877, "Tosa Awamori," the prefecture's first authentic awamori made with rice from Kochi Prefecture, and authentic rice shochu made from "Tosa Tenku no Sato," the brand rice that Kochi is proud of.

Inside the restaurant, in addition to horigotatsu (sunken kotatsu) seating, there are private rooms where you can spend time relaxing, and counter seats that are easy to use even for solo diners. Enjoy the deliciousness of the Reihoku region to your heart's content with food and drinks.

Local
Supporter

The lineup of Tosa Akaushi dishes is truly extensive! You can encounter a variety of delicious flavors depending on the cooking method, and it will surely make you want to drink more.

Jimoto Shokusyu Reihoku-mura
  • Address1F Tawaraya Building, 1-2-12 Obiyamachi, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture MAP
  • AccessApprox. 10-minute walk from JR Kochi Station
    Approx. 4-minute drive from JR Kochi Station
    Approx. 2-minute walk from Tosaden Kotsu Hasuike-machi-dori
  • Bus accessTake a local bus from JR Kochi Station, get off at "Kita-Harimayabashi," and walk for about 3 minutes
  • Business hours17:30–23:00 (L.O. 22:30)
  • ClosedTuesdays
  • TEL088-802-5388
  • ParkingNone

A popular restaurant that has impressed food lovers from both inside and outside the prefecture

In addition to the "Tosa Akaushi Straw-Grilled Beef" for 1,500 yen, there is "Deep-fried Moray Eel" for 850 yen and "Tosa Jiro Egg Omelet" for 750 yen.
In addition to "Tosa Akaushi straw-grilled beef" for 1,500 yen, there is "deep-fried moray eel" for 850 yen and "Tosa Jiro egg omelet" for 750 yen

We serve local cuisine that pairs perfectly with drinks, using carefully selected ingredients from Kochi Prefecture. Our chef, who honed his skills at a Japanese restaurant in Kyoto, is highly regarded for his meticulous preparation and dishes that bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

The "Tosa Akaushi Straw-Grilled Beef," seared over a roaring straw fire, is one of our most popular menu items. It is cooked to a perfect rare, with the smoke and aroma from the fire further enhancing the flavor of the Tosa Akaushi beef. The more you chew, the more the flavor spreads throughout your mouth—it is truly addictive. We recommend trying it simply with salt first, then with ponzu, wasabi, or citrus juice.

A collection of Kochi delicacies that will make you want to try everything

The interior has a homey atmosphere. There are also horigotatsu seats behind the counter seats.
The interior has a homey atmosphere. There are also sunken kotatsu seats behind the counter seats

Our menu is lined with Kochi specialties and dishes made with local ingredients, including "Katsuo Tataki" (seared bonito), "Tosa-maki" (bonito tataki sushi rolls), "Niyodo Natural Grilled Eel" (served as shira-yaki or with sauce), and tamagoyaki or egg-over-rice made with rich, flavorful eggs from the first laying of the local "Tosa Jiro" chicken. We also offer items like "Pâté de Campagne" from "Matsubara Meat," a popular additive-free charcuterie shop in Kami City, Kochi, which makes for a perfect snack with drinks.

The cozy restaurant has only about 12 seats and is often fully booked even on weekdays. We recommend making a reservation in advance.

Local
Supporter

The restaurant is basically run by the chef alone, giving it the atmosphere of a small Japanese-style bistro. Be sure to check out the freshly made daily side dishes lined up on the counter.

Kamon-tei
  • Address2-3-13 Harimaya-cho, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture MAP
  • AccessApprox. 10-minute walk from JR Kochi Station
    Approx. 3-minute drive from JR Kochi Station
    Approx. 2-minute walk from Tosaden Kotsu Hasuike-machi-dori Station
  • Bus accessTake a local bus from JR Kochi Station and get off at "Kita-Harimaya-bashi," then walk for about 1 minute
  • Business hours18:00 - 1:00 next day *Closes when ingredients run out
  • ClosedTuesdays
  • TEL088-885-0855
  • ParkingNone

Exquisite Shimanto pork tonkatsu created with perfect heat control

"Special Loin" 200g for 2,500 yen. Ribeye with just the right amount of fat. Enjoy it with four types of salt that pair well with pork, wasabi, or pomelo mustard.
"Special Loin" 200g for 2,500 yen. Ribeye with just the right amount of fat. Enjoy it with four types of salt that go well with pork, wasabi, or pomelo mustard

A tonkatsu specialty restaurant using "Shimanto Pork." There are three types of Shimanto pork—wheat-fed, rice-fed, and potato-fed—and we use the rice-fed variety for its tender texture and the sweetness and aroma of its fat.
We offer three cuts of tonkatsu: rib roast, loin, and fillet. Because we fry them in 100% lard, the flavor and aroma are exceptional. By cooking them slowly and carefully at a low temperature for about 15 minutes, the inside remains moist and juicy. Since the pork is well-seasoned, we recommend trying your first bite as-is to enjoy the natural flavor of the meat.

The breadcrumbs that bring out the natural deliciousness of the pork are our greatest asset

Beautiful, pale pink Shimanto Pork 'Komebuta' ribeye with a moderate amount of fat. The pork is sliced only after an order is placed.
Shimanto Pork 'Komebuta' rib roast, beautifully pale pink with just the right amount of marbling. The pork is sliced only after an order is placed.

After eating his way through over 100 tonkatsu restaurants across the country, the owner selected Shimanto Pork 'Komebuta' from among many options. Raised on the local 'Niida' brand rice, this pork is characterized by the aroma and sweetness of its fat, as well as the tenderness of its meat. Another point of obsession is the breadcrumbs, which the owner calls the most important ingredient in tonkatsu. Designed to maximize the deliciousness of the pork, these low-fat breadcrumbs made specifically for tonkatsu result in a crispy, fragrant, and light texture when fried. The moment you take a bite, the flavor hits you with full force, and you will be captivated by the deliciousness of Shimanto Pork 'Komebuta'.

Local
Supporter

The owner also serves as the owner-chef of the popular patisserie "Manger Sasa," located two doors down from "Beni-buta Porcorosso." Since there is also an eat-in cafe, we recommend stopping by after enjoying your tonkatsu.

Benibuta Porco Rosso
  • Address20-34 Takasone, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture MAP
  • AccessAbout a 20-minute walk from JR Kochi Station
    About a 6-minute drive from JR Kochi Station
  • Bus accessTake a local bus from "Kochi-ekimae" and get off at "Minamikawazoe," about a 6-minute walk.
  • Business hours11:00–14:00 (L.O. 13:30) *Closes when sold out.
  • ClosedSundays, Mondays, and other irregular holidays
  • TEL080-9839-2099
  • ParkingFree
  • NotesReservations are accepted by phone or via Instagram. We cannot answer the phone during business hours.

Guaranteed to leave you full. A wide array of locally sourced set meals

"Shimanto Pork Salt and Pepper Grilled Set Meal" for 1,610 yen. Comes with 4 small side dishes, rice, miso soup, and pickles.
"Shimanto Pork Salt and Pepper Grilled Set Meal" 1,610 yen. Comes with 4 small side dishes, rice, miso soup, and pickles.

A restaurant where you can casually enjoy delicious local Kochi cuisine in hearty, high-value set meals. There are about 50 different set meal options. The excitement of choosing which one to have is part of the charm.

While the main menu features set meals using plenty of fresh fish caught in nearby waters, dishes using local brand meat are also popular. The 'Shimanto Pork Salt and Pepper Grilled Set Meal' is a dish where thickly sliced loin is simply seasoned with salt and pepper. We recommend trying it as is for the first bite, and then squeezing some lemon over it for a refreshing finish.

Enjoy the deliciousness of Shimanto pork in a wide variety of ways

The spacious interior with high ceilings features rows of table and counter seats.
The spacious interior with high ceilings features both table and counter seating.

Other Shimanto Pork menu items include a wide variety of options such as the 'Shimanto Pork Tonteki (Pork Steak) Set Meal,' 'Shimanto Pork Skirt Steak Set Meal,' and 'Shimanto Pork Ginger Pork Set Meal.' Since all these dishes go perfectly with rice, it is best to come with an empty stomach.

Because you can enjoy hearty set meals at reasonable prices, the spacious restaurant with about 100 seats is always bustling. It is popular not only with families but also with solo diners, and it has truly captured the hearts (and stomachs) of Kochi residents.

Local
Supporter

The signature sashimi set meal always surprises with its freshness and volume. By establishing unique routes for fresh fish and sourcing large quantities three times a day—morning, noon, and evening—we are able to achieve both delicious quality and reasonable prices.

Ichiba Restaurant Nishimura Shoten
  • Address2-7-20 Kazurashima, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture MAP
  • AccessApprox. 10 minutes by car from JR Kochi Station
    Approx. 2 minutes on foot from Tosaden Kotsu Kenritsu Bijutsukan-dori Station
  • Bus accessTake a local bus from JR Kochi Station and get off at "Nishitakasu-dori," about a 1-minute walk.
  • Business hours11:00–15:00 (L.O. 14:30), 17:30–20:30 (L.O. 20:00)
    *Open until 21:00 (L.O. 20:30) on Saturdays.
  • ClosedTuesday dinner
  • TEL088-855-8794
  • ParkingFree

Fully enjoy the deliciousness of Tosa Akaushi beef in hot pot dishes

"Tosa Akaushi Sukiyaki" for 3,500 yen per person. Uses a rare cut called brisket, which allows you to enjoy the delicious flavor of the lean meat.
"Tosa Akaushi Sukiyaki" 3,500 yen per serving. Uses a rare cut called brisket, which allows you to enjoy the delicious flavor of the lean meat.

A Japanese-style izakaya where you can enjoy local Kochi cuisine along with local sake. They serve local fish dishes, including straw-grilled bonito, as well as dishes using 'Tosa Akaushi' beef.

We recommend the "Tosa Akaushi Sukiyaki." The brisket, a rare cut of shoulder meat, is characterized by its light and refreshing flavor, which pairs perfectly with the sweet sukiyaki sauce. The rich flavor of the Tosa Akaushi beef permeates the tofu, vegetables, and other ingredients, allowing you to encounter a variety of delicious flavors with every bite. The "Tosa Akaushi Shabu-shabu," which can be enjoyed in a light and refreshing way, is also highly acclaimed.

Pair Kochi's local cuisine with local sake

Tatami seating is also available on the first floor. There are also counter seats and table seats.
Tatami-mat seating is also available on the first floor. There are also counter and table seats.

When it comes to "Fujinoya," you cannot miss the "Katsuo no Tataki" (seared bonito) made with fresh bonito. Beyond the spectacular performance of searing it over straw right in front of the counter, the slightly warm, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the bonito has captivated many food connoisseurs.
We also offer classic local dishes such as "Deep-fried Moray Eel," "Shimanto River Green Laver Tempura," and "Deep-fried Shimanto River Freshwater Shrimp." These local delicacies pair perfectly with local sake sourced from all over the prefecture. We carry many brands rarely found in other restaurants, making the marriage of food and sake one of the highlights of your meal.

Local
Supporter

In addition to hot pot dishes, Tosa Akaushi beef is also available as "Tosa Akaushi Thigh Straw-Seared," prepared in the same way as bonito. The smoky aroma of the straw-searing wafts through the air, making it a dish that pairs perfectly with alcohol.

Fujinoya
  • Address4-5 Nijudaicho, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture MAP
  • AccessApprox. 10-minute walk from JR Kochi Station
    Approx. 3-minute drive from JR Kochi Station
    Approx. 4-minute walk from Tosaden Kotsu Hasuike-machi-dori Station
  • Bus accessTake a local bus from JR Kochi Station, get off at "Hasuike-machi-dori," and walk for approx. 5 minutes
  • Business hours17:30–23:30 (L.O. 23:00)
  • ClosedMondays
  • TEL088-879-3737
  • ParkingNone

Savor the deliciousness of Tosa Wagyu beef in seasonal kaiseki cuisine

Carefully grilled Tosa Wagyu beef (an example from the 13,000 yen course). You can upgrade to Tosa Akaushi round steak for an additional 1,500 yen.
Carefully cooked Tosa Wagyu beef (an example from the 13,000 yen course). You can upgrade to Tosa Akaushi round steak for an additional 1,500 yen.

We offer Japanese cuisine that makes the most of Kochi's seasonal ingredients in a course meal format. Through our dishes, you can feel the changing of the seasons.

Courses are available at three price points: 9,000 yen, 13,000 yen, and 20,000 yen. Starting with seasonal appetizers, the meal includes about 10 dishes such as soup, sashimi, a meat dish using Tosa Wagyu or Tosa Akaushi beef, and handmade soba noodles to finish. From delicate cooking methods that bring out the flavor of the ingredients to beautiful presentation and high-quality tableware that enhances the dishes, every item is a delight for both the eyes and the palate.

A Japanese restaurant for adults where high-quality time and space flow

At the counter seats, you can watch the cooking process right in front of you.
At the counter seats, you can watch the food being prepared right in front of you.

The interior features a sophisticated space with earthen walls and traditional Japanese fittings, allowing you to enjoy your meal in a calm atmosphere with downlighting. In addition to the counter seats featuring an eye-catching single slab of cedar, we have comfortable box sofa seats and private table rooms perfect for business dinners, making the restaurant suitable for various situations. We highly recommend pairing your course meal with drinks. We have a rich selection of not only sake but also wine. Choosing the right drink to match your meal will multiply the deliciousness.

Local
Supporter

In Kochi City, the style of serving Japanese cuisine exclusively as a course meal is rare, making "Shunshen Ryori Aizen" a unique establishment. Since it can be enjoyed even by solo diners, it is the place to choose when you want to slowly savor the gourmet delights of Kochi.

Shunshen Ryori Aizen
  • Address1-4-11 Harimaya-cho, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture MAP
  • AccessApprox. 11-minute walk from JR Kochi Station
    Approx. 3-minute drive from JR Kochi Station
    Approx. 2-minute walk from Tosaden Kotsu Hasuike-machi-dori
  • Bus accessTake a local bus from JR Kochi Station and get off at "Kita-Harimaya-bashi," then walk for about 1 minute
  • Business hours17:00 - 21:30 L.O.
  • ClosedWednesday
  • TEL088-861-4282
  • ParkingNone
  • NotesCourse meals only. Reservations required by phone at least one day in advance. Not available for elementary school students and younger.
*The information provided is current as of the date of the article's update. Please check in advance as it may be subject to change.