Guide to the Best Horse Meat Restaurants in Kumamoto

Kumamoto is the best place to eat horse meat in Japan. Locals call this delicious chilled delicacy "basashi" or "cherry blossom meat." Its bright red color resembles the beautiful cherry blossom petals. It is a core part of the best winter foods in Kumamoto during 2026.

Horse meat is lean, healthy, and high in protein content. It contains very little fat compared to beef or pork. You can enjoy it raw, grilled, or in a hot pot. This guide highlights the top locations to enjoy this unique regional specialty.

Suganoya Kamidori Branch Excellence

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO).

Suganoya is likely the most famous name for horse meat in Kumamoto. They operate their own private farms to ensure the highest quality meat. This farm-to-table approach guarantees that the meat is always fresh and safe. The Kamidori branch offers a sophisticated atmosphere for a formal dinner.

The menu features several expensive and rare cuts of horse meat. You should definitely try the premium marbled meat during your visit. It melts on the tongue like high-quality wagyu beef but feels lighter. Prices for a full course lunch start around 4,500 yen in 2026.

You can also try horse meat sushi and flavorful horse steak here. The staff provides excellent service and explains each cut of meat carefully. This restaurant is very popular so you should book a table early. Most tourists consider this the definitive horse meat experience in the city.

The interior design is modern yet reflects traditional Japanese aesthetic values. It is located near the main shopping arcade for easy access. You can find many other great spots in the Kumamoto winter travel guide 2026 nearby. This makes it a convenient stop during a busy sightseeing day.

Mutsumigoro Traditional Dining Experience

Mutsumigoro offers a classic and cozy environment for traditional Japanese dining. This restaurant is famous among locals for its authentic horse meat dishes. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming during the cold winter months. You will feel like a local guest in an old Kumamoto home.

The chef specializes in very thick slices of fresh horse sashimi. These slices are incredibly tender and have a mild sweet flavor. You should pair your meal with local sake for the best experience. The fatty neck meat is a unique delicacy offered at this shop.

Dinner courses at Mutsumigoro are generous and focus on seasonal ingredients. They serve a wonderful horse meat miso soup that warms the body. You can expect to pay between 6,000 and 8,000 yen for dinner. The quality of the meat justifies the higher price point for travelers.

This establishment is located in the Shimotori area of Kumamoto city. It opens in the evening and stays busy until late at night. The wooden interior creates a relaxing space for long conversations with friends. It remains a top choice for those seeking a rustic dining vibe.

Maezakura Gourmet Horse Meat Selection

Maezakura is the place to go for a modern culinary adventure. This restaurant focuses on artistic presentation and creative horse meat recipes. They offer a wide variety of shabu-shabu and grilled meat options. It is a fantastic choice for diners who prefer cooked meat dishes.

The horse meat hot pot is a highlight during the winter season. Thin slices of meat are dipped quickly into a flavorful boiling broth. This cooking method keeps the meat very juicy and tender to eat. It is a healthy way to enjoy the local Kumamoto specialty.

Maezakura also serves excellent horse meat carpaccio with olive oil and herbs. This fusion style appeals to international travelers and younger Japanese diners alike. Their wine list is extensive and features many perfect pairings for red meat. The staff can help you choose the best bottle for your meal.

You can find this restaurant close to the Kumamoto City Hall building. The sleek decor makes it suitable for romantic dates or business meetings. Prices are competitive with other high-end restaurants in the downtown area. Experience the modern side of Kumamoto cuisine at this trendy location.

Kenzo Local Favorite for Basashi

Kenzo is a favorite spot for those who want a casual atmosphere. This izakaya-style restaurant serves excellent horse meat at very reasonable prices. It is often crowded with locals after they finish their work day. You can enjoy a lively and energetic dining experience here tonight.

The basashi platter at Kenzo includes many different parts of the horse. You can taste the difference between the lean meat and fatty sections. Each piece is served with grated ginger, garlic, and special sweet soy sauce. This combination enhances the natural sweetness of the fresh raw meat.

Try the grilled horse liver if you want something bold and flavorful. It has a rich texture that is similar to beef liver. The portions are large enough to share with a group of friends. Most small plates cost between 800 and 1,500 yen in early 2026.

Kenzo is located in a narrow side street near the entertainment district. Look for the traditional red lanterns hanging outside the small wooden door. It offers a true taste of Kumamoto nightlife for adventurous food lovers. Be prepared for a bit of smoke and a lot of fun.

Practical Tips for Eating Basashi

Dining on raw horse meat requires some knowledge of the different cuts. The most common cut is called "akami," which is the lean red meat. "Harami" refers to the flavorful meat taken from around the horse ribs. Each cut has a different level of fat and unique texture.

Always eat your basashi with the provided condiments like ginger and garlic. These ingredients help to balance the flavor and aid with your digestion. Many restaurants also serve a special dark and sweet soy sauce. This sauce is specifically made to complement the taste of horse meat.

Horse meat is extremely safe to eat raw because of the animals' physiology. Horses have a very high body temperature which prevents most parasite growth. Japanese health regulations for horse meat are also incredibly strict and thorough. You can enjoy your meal with complete peace of mind in Kumamoto.

Book your reservations at least one week in advance during peak winter. Most popular restaurants fill up quickly during the weekend or holiday periods. Many shops offer English menus to help international tourists choose their dishes. Be sure to check the opening hours for 2026 before you visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kumamoto offers a world-class dining experience for anyone curious about horse meat. You can choose between high-end establishments and lively local taverns. After a delicious meal, you might want to relax in a Kumamoto winter onsen guide location. Enjoy the unique flavors of this historic Japanese city during 2026.

Key Takeaways

• Suganoya is the top choice for high-quality farm-to-table meat.
• Try the 'akami' cut for lean meat or 'harami' for fat.
• Always use the local sweet soy sauce and ginger condiments.
• Make restaurant reservations at least one week before your trip.

Related reads: polarcityguide.com, where to eat kumamoto ramen winter.