Inou Hitsumabushi ESCA Branch
Renowned for its authentic Nagoya-style Hitsumabushi, this unagi restaurant offers a delicious and unique way to enjoy grilled eel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Inou Hitsumabushi ESCA Branch
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Renowned for its authentic Nagoya-style Hitsumabushi, this unagi restaurant offers a delicious and unique way to enjoy grilled eel.
Beat the Crowds
Visit during off-peak hours like early afternoon or weekday evenings to avoid long queues.
Three Ways to Enjoy
Mix and match with condiments, broth, or enjoy the eel as is for varied flavors.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Japanese (Unagi)
Price
$$$
Phone
+81 52-453-1216
Address
エスカ地下街, 6-9 Tsubakicho, Nakamura Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 453-0015, Japan
Website
inou-hitsumabushi.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic Hitsumabushi Experience
Savor Nagoya's signature eel dish, served with various condiments and broth for a unique culinary journey.
Perfectly Grilled Eel
Enjoy plump, juicy eel with crispy, caramelized skin, grilled to perfection over bincho charcoal.
Convenient Station Location
Easily accessible within an underground mall near JR Nagoya Station, perfect for travelers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Beat the Crowds
Visit during off-peak hours like early afternoon or weekday evenings to avoid long queues.
Three Ways to Enjoy
Mix and match with condiments, broth, or enjoy the eel as is for varied flavors.
Consider Portion Size
Medium-sized portions offer a satisfying meal without being overwhelming.
Don't Skip the Rice
The rice is delicious; consider ordering a regular portion, even if you're tempted by less.
Tips
from all over the internet
Beat the Crowds
Visit during off-peak hours like early afternoon or weekday evenings to avoid long queues.
Three Ways to Enjoy
Mix and match with condiments, broth, or enjoy the eel as is for varied flavors.
Consider Portion Size
Medium-sized portions offer a satisfying meal without being overwhelming.
Don't Skip the Rice
The rice is delicious; consider ordering a regular portion, even if you're tempted by less.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners rave about the exceptional quality and taste of the grilled eel, particularly the signature Hitsumabushi, praising the crispy skin and juicy meat. While some find the experience a bit pricey, most agree it's worth every yen for the authentic flavors and enjoyable dining method. The convenient location near Nagoya station is also a plus, though some warn of potential queues during peak times.
"Eel here was so good! Loved the crisped edges soooo much, but my dining partner found it too a bit crispy. My dining partner really liked mixing it with the broth (which you can call the server over to fill for you towards the end of your meal), but I didn't like that as much. I think everyone will still have a good time eating here. I got less rice and regretted it, as the rice is also yummy. Would come back!"
Clarice Chan
"Some of other famous Unagi restaurant near Nagoya station always has a long time, which need wait for hours, so I tried this one.
Overall, it's not bad. First you don't need to wait for a long time. I came around dinner time and wait only around 30 minutes, which is acceptable. The eel taste good but I like slightly more crispy is possible. I also ordered the shrimp tempura which looks different from others but taste good.
If you want to try Unagi but don't want to wait for a long time, you should try it here."
Ryan Z
"The meal was really good the eel has a very good taste and the portion size is pretty big. The atmosphere was pretty nice. As for the service they were excellent and offered a free size up for the meal. I highly recommend this restaurant and I will definitely come here again."
Gabbar Rathore
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Hitsumabushi is a Nagoya specialty dish featuring grilled eel served over rice, designed to be eaten in three distinct ways: as is, with condiments, and with broth.
Visit during off-peak hours, such as early afternoon or weekday evenings. Weekday lunchtimes might also be better than weekends.
While considered a bit pricey, many diners feel the high-quality ingredients and unique experience make it well worth the cost.
Yes, the restaurant encourages trying the Hitsumabushi in three recommended ways: plain, with condiments, or with broth.
The restaurant is located in an underground mall (ESCA), so parking would be available at the mall's facilities.
While the menu might not be in English, many diners find smartphones can translate it effectively, or staff can assist.
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Featured in these publications
Nagoya Food Guide - What to eat in Nagoya
Nagoya is the country's largest producer of fresh water eel (unagi), which are typically grilled, slathered in a rich, dark sauce, and served over rice. Nagoya's take on the dish, known as hitsumabushi, is served in a traditional wooden bowl accompanied by a rice bowl, a plate of condiments and a pot of broth. One eats hitsumabushi by splitting the serving of eel into four portions.
Savor the Unique Taste of Nagoya | Column
Hitsumabushi is one of Nagoya’s most representative dishes and highly recommended when visiting the city. Not trying Hitsumabushi is like going to Spain and not eating “Paella”. Hitsumabushi are fillets of char-grilled eel served on a steaming bowl of rice.
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