Where to Eat Near Myoko Forest Chalet – Our Favourite Local Restaurants
- cnash322
- Apr 8
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 13
Myoko Forest Chalet is a self-catering property with a fully equipped kitchen, so guests can comfortably cook their own meals whenever they like. We find this gives the best of both worlds — the freedom and comfort of cooking at “home” in the chalet, combined with the option to go out and enjoy excellent local restaurants in the area.
Here are some of the places we particularly enjoy when we stay at the chalet.
1. Toyooka Seiniku Yakiniku – Our Go-To for Yakiniku
Distance from Myoko Forest Chalet: About 10–12 minutes by car
This is one of our absolute favourites in the Myoko area. Toyooka is both a butcher shop and a yakiniku restaurant, which means the meat is extremely fresh and high quality. The wagyu and other cuts are tender and flavourful, and everything is grilled at the table. It is casual, welcoming, and perfect after a big day on the slopes. We often buy fresh meat from their butcher counter to cook back at the chalet too.
→ Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/C6fdRt7mMnwehW2b9
Best for: Meat lovers, groups, and special dinners.
2. Sushi Yoshi – Great Value Sushi
Distance: Around 15–20 minutes by car (Myoko City / Arai area)
For excellent sushi at very reasonable prices, we really like Sushi Yoshi. They use fresh seafood from the Japan Sea and also have a branch near Lotte Arai Resort. The quality is consistently high and the portions are generous.
→ Official Website: https://www.niigata-sushiyoshi.com/sushiyoshi
Best for: Sushi cravings.
3. Yakitori Asagao – Top-Rated Family-Run Yakitori
Distance: 5 minutes by car (Akakura Onsen)
Yakitori Asagao is a small, family-run spot that consistently receives great reviews. They serve high-quality domestic chicken grilled over charcoal with a delicious secret teriyaki sauce. The atmosphere is cosy and authentic.
→ Tripadvisor Website: https://en.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g1021352-d12233128-Reviews-Yakitori_Asagao-Myoko_Niigata_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html
Best for: Casual izakaya-style dining and excellent grilled skewers.
4. Two Pines Pizza – Stone-Baked Pizza
Distance: Around 15 minutes by car (Suginosawa area)
When we want something different from Japanese food, Two Pines Pizza is excellent. They serve authentic stone-baked pizzas in a cosy setting with a good wine list. It is a nice change of pace after several days of heavy mountain meals.
→ Website: https://escapemyoko.com/two-pines-pizza/
Best for: Pizza nights and casual Western comfort food.
5. Ginza Pizza – Lively Wood-Fired Pizza
Distance: About 5 minutes by car (Akakura Onsen area)
Another strong pizza option is Ginza Pizza. It has a fun, happening vibe and serves tasty wood-fired pizzas. Great for groups or when you want something shareable and lively.
→ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ginzapizza.myoko/
Best for: Lively atmosphere and good pizza.
6. Landmark Onsen Cafe – Izakaya-Style with Great Seafood
Distance: 10–15 minutes by car (Ikenotaira area)
Located inside the Landmark Onsen facility, this café has an izakaya feel with a strong selection of Japanese seafood dishes. It is a convenient and relaxing spot, especially if you are already enjoying the onsen.
Best for: Onsen + dining combos and casual Japanese pub food.
7. Great Cafés for Coffee & Views
Myoko Coffee (at Ikenotaira Visitor Centre) – Beautiful space with excellent coffee and views overlooking Imori-ike pond. → Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myokocoffee/
The Lake Side Cafe at Lake Nojiri – Wonderful lakeside views, good coffee, and light meals. Perfect in summer or on clear days. → Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_lake_side_nojiriko/
Our Tip for Guests at Myoko Forest Chalet
Because the chalet has a full kitchen, we usually cook breakfast and some dinners ourselves (especially using fresh meat from Toyooka). We then go out for one or two special meals during the stay. This approach keeps things relaxed, saves money, and lets you enjoy the best local flavours without eating out every night.
Reservations are highly recommended for dinner during peak winter season (December to March), especially on weekends.
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