Nijo Market - Affordable Grilled Fish Set (Prefer cooked food to sashimi?)
Hear it from me, you NEED to add this to your travel food list at Nijo market!
Rating /⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐:
Beyond the incredible Sashimi Don, this place has another ace up its sleeve — their grilled fish set meals are an absolute must-try. This was actually my first stop for breakfast, and I almost walked past it entirely. But the long queue stopped me in my track, and true to Singaporean instinct, I joined it without a second thought. Best decision I ever made. Looking for an affordable yet unforgettable breakfast? Continue to read below.
Price 💰
Grilled fish set meals range from Yen 1,000 to 1,700, while Sashimi Dons go from Yen 2,800 to 4,800. Every single yen is worth the wait. Check out the menu on the third and fourth pages for the full selection.
Queue
Expect to wait around an hour, but do not let that put you off. The restaurant is small with limited seats, and the locals clearly know something we do not — this place is packed with regulars. Take it as a sign you are in the right spot.
Place
A Trip Advisor recommended hidden gem, and for good reason. The menu is entirely in Japanese — but do not panic. Use Google Translate for the grilled fish menu (just like I did for the fourth page), and for the Sashimi Dons, simply point to the photo illustrations when ordering. Easy and fuss-free.
Personal Review
Grilled Mackerel Fish Set Meal (Yen 1,000) — At just Yen 1,000, this is outrageously good value. The mackerel is enormous (see the second page — you will understand), grilled fresh right in front of you, crispy on the outside and bursting with flavour from their special sauce. I am not usually one going for fish with many bones like mackerel, but this completely won me over. If you prefer something cooked over raw, this is your answer. Other Grilled set meal options include codfish, silver flounder, and salmon belly — all worth exploring.
Uni, Ikura and Salmon Don (Yen 4,800) — Hokkaido's uni never disappoints, and this bowl is proof. The portion size is just right, and the grilled oyster — which disappeared into my stomach before I could photograph it — was texturally perfect and satisfying. A good option if you want a don that is both affordable and freshest quality
Crab Miso Soup (Yen 200) — Do yourself a favour and upgrade to this. A whole crab leg nestled in rich, sweet miso broth — it is the kind of thing you will be thinking about long after you have left. Very addictive.
Overall, this place is a gem that is slowly being discovered by more and more travellers. If you don’t mind the wait, just go. The food quality at this price point is something truly special. #ThingsToDo
If you're planning a visit to Nijo Market, especially around mealtime, I highly recommend stopping by Kitchen Nagamori. From my experience, their chirashi don is a standout—fresh, colorful, and packed with quality seafood that truly captures the essence of the market. While Nijo Market is known for its fresh seafood, it also offers excellent prices that won't break the bank, making it accessible for travelers. Evening visits can be particularly enjoyable when the market transitions into a lively dinner spot, with vendors serving a variety of seafood dishes that highlight local flavors. Exploring the market near Nijo Castle means you can easily blend sightseeing with food adventures. Many stalls offer seafood bowls and grilled delicacies that provide both taste and cultural experience in one meal. Don't miss trying different seafood options to get a fuller sense of what this vibrant food market offers. Remember to arrive early if you want the freshest selection, as the best items can sell out quickly. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking for affordable dining near Nijo Castle, the market offers a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for food exploration.
