Yatai
A Yatai in Fukuoka
Yatai’s are basically food stalls that serve all kinds of food and drink. They are very famous in Fukuoka and many locals and visitors alike frequent them. They are temporary structures that are put up just about everyday. They are usually open from evening to late into the night. Yatai’s are usually put on sidewalks along some of the popular streets in and around Central Fukuoka City.
The best place to find Yatai’s is in and around Tenjin and near Nakasu, although they have been known to pop up just about anywhere. They are often very crowded with people packed tightly sitting on little stools. Yatai’s serve some of the following foods and drinks:
- Ramen
- Udon
- Oden
- Yakitori
- Yakisoba
- Okonomiyaki
- Gyoza
- Beer
- Shochu
- Sake
These food stalls are open just about year round. Bad weather is about the only thing that closes them down. I think the best time to go is in the spring or fall, but I have been in every season and always have a good time. One of the best things about going to a Yatai is that it’s a great chance to meet and chat with people. No matter how good or bad your Japanese is, you will always find either a customer or a Yatai owner that wants to “talk story”. Yatai prices are usually fairly cheap, which is why they are so popular, and why the good ones are always packed.
Another interesting thing about these shops is their ability to store, prepare, cook, power, and serve. You wont believe how efficiently space is used! Also, it’s amazing what these chefs (I call them chefs because I believe it magical how they prepare their dishes) can do with these limited resources!! Next time you are in Fukuoka or if you are looking for something interesting to do, get down to the Tenjin and Nakasu areas and check out a Yatai for yourself.