Kitaro Japanese Dining

Located in Nakatsu City, Oita Prefecture-an area closely associated with the famed strategist Kuroda Kanbei-Kitaro Japanese Dining is a Japanese restaurant that has steadily expanded its offerings over the years. The restaurant originally opened serving katsudon, but later developed new signature dishes centered on hamo (pike conger), a local specialty of Nakatsu, including the now-popular Hamo Katsu Don.

Hamo is known for its many fine bones and must be expertly prepared using a precise bone-cutting technique. Dishes prepared by skilled chefs who have mastered this technique are highly regarded. The restaurant’s signature menu item is the Kanbei Gozen, a set meal that lets you enjoy both egg-bound hamo cutlet and hamo shumai in one sitting. In addition, a wide range of à la carte dishes is available, including Tekka Don and Seafood Rice Bowls made with fresh seafood caught in the Buzen Sea.

The interior features both counter seating and traditional tatami rooms. The tatami rooms can be arranged with tables or low seating, and cushioned seating makes the space comfortable for families with children. The restaurant can be used for everything from casual lunches to group banquets, making it suitable for a wide variety of occasions. It’s an easygoing place to enjoy Nakatsu’s famous hamo cuisine while sightseeing in the area.