If you're making a trip down to Nagoya, I recommend renting a car and driving to Gifu, which is a neighbouring mountainous prefecture. Below are my Top 5 picks (in alphabetical order) from a walk-in lunch to an introduction-only dinner, scroll down for more info!
Curnontue, Delicatessen
Kotte-Ushi, Wagyu Sushi
Shinanoya, Udon
Tsubameya, Wagashi
Yanagiya, Fire Grilled
Curnontue
This charcuterie cottage is located in the middle of the mountains - the breathtaking nature-filled drive en route makes it worth the trek
Walk-in only
Website | Tabelog | Facebook | Google Maps
Kotte-Ushi
This wagyu sushi specialty store is located in "Takayama", a beautiful town near the "Hida" region, which is famous for its premium beef
Walk-in only
Shinanoya
This small cottage serves handmade udon (thick Japanese wheat noodles) and is only open 3 days a week on Thursdays to Saturdays
Walk-in only
Tsubameya
Highly recommend their takeout "Warabi-Mochi" (a traditional jelly-like confection, made from Bracken starch and dipped in kinako, or sweet toasted soybean flour)
Walk-in only
Website | Tabelog | Instagram | Google Maps
Yanagiya
This introduction-only restaurant is located in the middle of the mountains in rural Gifu - it consists of multiple private rooms, each with its own “irori” style central fireplace
Reservation via introduction-only