Torizen Nishinakasu Bekkan – A Hidden Gem in Fukuoka Serving Authentic Mizutaki Hot Pot

One of Fukuoka’s lesser-known specialties is mizutaki (chicken hot pot).

Although it’s a local dish, unlike ramen, motsunabe, yakitori, or seafood, it’s surprisingly hard to find restaurants that serve a proper mizutaki course starting with a rich broth.
(This is just a personal impression—not based on statistics.)

Today I’d like to introduce one of those rare places: “Torizen Nishinakasu Bekkan,” located in the bustling Nakasu area of Fukuoka.

You can enjoy delicious mizutaki in a lovely setting with views of the Nakagawa River right outside the window!

A Hidden Mizutaki Spot in Nishinakasu: Torizen Nishinakasu Bekkan

Torizen Nishinakasu Bekkan is located in the Nishinakasu area, just before you cross the bridge into Nakasu.

Enter a narrow alley just wide enough for one car, and you’ll find the entrance—a true hidden gem.

Inside, there are counter seats facing the river, table seating, and private tatami rooms. The clientele tends to be a bit older compared to places in Tenjin.
You might spot businessmen with flashy companions—or maybe not.

Start your meal with the classic—vinegared offal.

Followed by a salad with prosciutto.

After nibbling on chicken wings and sipping some drinks, it’s time to order the mizutaki.

Sip the broth, enjoy the chicken, savor the vegetables—this is Hakata-style Mizutaki.

Here it comes—mizutaki hot pot! You can tell from the color that the broth is rich with flavor.
(Some places use clear broths, so it depends on the style.)

A staff member in a kimono will first serve you the broth.
Pictured: “Oh, you’re taking a photo?” “Oh, sorry!”

Add salt to taste and enjoy the soup…

Then move on to the chicken, served with house-made ponzu for a refreshing taste.

Next comes tsukune (chicken meatballs),

And then vegetables—the classic progression of a Hakata-style mizutaki course.

We were too busy chatting and drinking to take many photos, but it was absolutely delicious—the kind of flavor that makes you go, “Yes! This is it!”

To finish, rice is added to the broth to make a comforting porridge, soaking up all that chicken flavor.

Final Thoughts

There are a few other mizutaki places around Nakasu, but this one stands out with its lovely atmosphere and balance of flavors—perfect even for bringing a date.

Of course, it’s also great for entertaining guests in general and easy to move on to the next spot afterward.

I’ve been to a few other Torizen locations, but this Nishinakasu branch has been my favorite so far. Highly recommended!