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Okayama City has a rich culinary scene where izakaya dining and regional specialties shine. Two standout experiences are Izakaya Koiki and Mori Restaurant, each serving local flavors with warmth and charm.

A Japanese restaurant interior with shelves of sake bottles, stacked plates, a handwritten menu board, and a chef working behind the counter—warm lighting creates a cozy atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot on any Where to Eat in Okayama list.

Discovering Okayama’s Izakaya Culture at Koiki

Whenever we travel in Japan, we try to make time for at least one izakaya meal. These casual gastropubs are where locals gather for small plates, drinks, and friendly conversation, and they often serve some of the best regional dishes.

In Okayama, we chose Izakaya Koiki, a cozy spot just a short walk from Okayama Station. The name Koiki translates to “classic sophistication,” and that balance of tradition and creativity showed in both the food and the service.

A close-up of a traditional Japanese rice dish in a black bowl, topped with finely sliced ginger and pieces of white fish and vegetables—perfect for those seeking Where to Eat in Okayama.

Some dishes we loved included:

  • Hamo Tempura – Lightly battered pike conger eel, paired with a sprinkle of citrus salt.
  • Smoked Mackerel – Rich and savory with just the right amount of smokiness.
  • Corn and Gobo Kakiage – A crunchy fritter of burdock root and sweet corn.
  • Octopus Gobo Rice – Comforting rice mixed with tender octopus and slivers of burdock root.

The staff recommended sake and shochu pairings, which made the experience even more enjoyable. Izakaya like Koiki are perfect for sampling seasonal specialties in a relaxed atmosphere.

Mori – Okayama-Style Okonomiyaki

Two okonomiyaki pancakes cook on a griddle; one topped with raw bacon slices, the other with chunks of white yam, both containing chopped vegetables and batter—a must-try if you're exploring Where to Eat in Okayama.

On another evening, we had dinner at Okonomiyaki Mori, a modest neighborhood restaurant with a loyal local following. The specialty here is okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake layered with cabbage, batter, and hearty toppings. While the exterior may look unassuming, Nami and her mom both agreed it was among the best okonomiyaki they’ve ever enjoyed in Japan.

Mori’s menu includes Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki as well as Okayama’s own twist, the kakioko (oyster okonomiyaki). This dish features plump oysters from the Seto Inland Sea, tucked inside the pancake for a rich umami flavor.

A close-up of okonomiyaki, a Japanese savory pancake, topped with green herbs, bonito flakes, sauce, and mayonnaise, served on a black plate—a must-try dish when exploring Where to Eat in Okayama.

We tried three versions:

  • Pork Belly Okonomiyaki – A classic and hearty favorite.
  • Kakioko (Oyster Okonomiyaki) – The star dish, full of briny flavor.
  • Shiso and Mochi Okonomiyaki – An unexpected highlight, with fresh shiso adding brightness and chewy mochi for texture.

The food was delicious and reasonably priced, and it felt like every dish was prepared with care. The chance to taste a regional okonomiyaki variation made the visit even more memorable.

How to Get to Izakaya Koiki and Mori Restaurant

Izakaya Koiki

Koiki sits in Okayama’s downtown shopping area, about a 10 minute walk from JR Okayama Station.

  • Walk: 10 minutes from JR Okayama Station.
  • Taxi: 5 minutes from the station depending on traffic.

Okonomiyaki Mori

Mori is a short 5 minute walk from JR Okayama Station..

Pro Tip: Visit Koiki in the evening for the full izakaya vibe. Plan Mori for lunch and arrive early to avoid a wait.

Our Final Take on Koiki and Mori

Two savory pancakes with oysters and egg cook on a hot griddle—one being sliced with a metal spatula. The greasy surface glistens, with extra oysters and melted cheese visible. A must-try bite if you’re exploring where to eat in Okayama!.

Dining at Izakaya Koiki gave us a flavorful introduction to Okayama’s izakaya culture and local specialities, while Mori’s oyster okonomiyaki was a regional specialty we won’t forget. Together, they offered two different but equally memorable ways to experience local food culture in Okayama.

More to Explore Nearby

Both Izakaya Koiki and Okonomiyaki Mori are located in the heart of Shinjuku, making them excellent starting points for exploring Tokyo’s most vibrant and dynamic district. The surrounding area offers a perfect blend of peaceful gardens, dazzling urban views, and traditional nightlife alleys.

  • Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – Find tranquility just steps away from the bustling city. This expansive park features three distinct garden styles: French Formal, English Landscape, and traditional Japanese.
  • Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building – Located in Nishi-Shinjuku, this is a massive landmark offering free admission to its observation decks, providing spectacular panoramic views of the entire Tokyo skyline.
  • Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) – Dive into this atmospheric, narrow alleyway near Shinjuku Station, famed for its tiny, smoky yakitori shops and traditional Showa-era charm, offering a great contrast to the modern restaurants.
  • Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko – Take a short train ride to the neighboring district of Shibuya to witness the world’s busiest intersection and visit the famous statue of the loyal dog, Hachiko.

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