Fukuoka is one of Japan’s cities most famous for its yatai (food stalls).
Yatai can be found in many parts of the city, and some even evolve into permanent restaurants.
One such place is “Nagahama Yatai Yamachan.”
The yatai itself closed earlier this year, but they now have locations in Tenjin, Nakasu, and even Ginza in Tokyo.
This time, I decided to visit their Tenjin branch after a heavy night of drinking. It was around 3:00 AM on a weekday, and I stopped by alone on a whim.
The atmosphere was lively, and both the yakitori and ramen were delicious—perfect for a second or third round of drinks.
Places like this are truly special, aren’t they?
“Yamachan,” A Restaurant Born from Nagahama’s Famous Yatai Scene
On my way home after drinking late into the night, I had a craving for ramen and ended up at Yamachan.
The reassurance of finding a place open at 3:00 AM is unbeatable.
Outside, there’s a sign that screams “We’re true Hakata locals!”
It boasts, “We bathed in ramen soup as newborns, and our morning greeting is a bowl of ramen.” A legacy of culinary battles, indeed.
The interior walls are covered in business cards, menus, and posters, creating a wonderfully chaotic atmosphere.
Even at 3:00 AM on a weekday, the place was nearly full. This restaurant is wildly popular… or maybe Fukuoka residents just drink too much!
The restaurant is run by veterans of the yatai world, and their seasoned experience in grilling yakitori and crafting ramen radiates from them.
Delicious Yakitori and Ramen: The Perfect End to a Night Out
Even after a night of heavy drinking, I couldn’t resist ordering a glass of sake.
I initially planned to only have ramen, but I couldn’t help myself and ordered the classic pork belly skewer.
Paired with crisp cabbage, it’s dangerously good with alcohol. One bite leads to another.
I also caved and got the enoki mushroom wrapped in bacon—a personal favorite. The crunchy texture is just irresistible.
Now that I think about it, despite being at a yakitori place, I didn’t order any chicken!
*Note: It’s common for yakitori shops in Fukuoka to serve non-chicken items like pork belly, enoki wraps, or beef sagari (skirt steak).*
Of course, the night had to end with ramen. I remember not being particularly impressed the last time I came here, but this time, it was phenomenal.
The flavors soothed my stomach. Maybe the recipe changed, or maybe my taste buds did.
The broth is rich for a Nagahama-style ramen—not too light, not too heavy—making it perfect after a night of drinking. The umami flavor is well-balanced and goes down smoothly.
In any case, being able to enjoy such delicious ramen late at night after drinking is pure joy.
Moments like these remind me why I’m glad to live in Fukuoka.
Conclusion
Yamachan is a ramen izakaya with a yatai vibe, perfect for wrapping up a night out in Hakata.
If you ever find yourself in Fukuoka, make sure to drop by!
