Miyazaki no Daidokoro Akaneya

A restaurant calling itself “Miyazaki’s kitchen” has lofty expectations to fulfill, but Akaneya steps up to the plate with confidence. The restaurant is unapologetically Miyazaki, making ample use of ingredients that can only be found in the sun-kissed prefecture. The brilliant orange Okuhyuga and Nishimera salmon are commonplace on Akaneya’s sashimi platters, sourced directly from the local markets. Local jidori chicken is sourced from the Kurihara farm and grilled over charcoal in an unmistakably Miyazaki style. And of course, arguably the best wagyu in Japan, Miyazaki beef, is present in spades, from shabu-shabu hotpot to grilled sirloin that melts in the mouth. A course meal at Akaneya guarantees an appreciation for the produce and incomparably fresh ingredients of this coastal, southern prefecture. Kyushu is inseparably tied to shochu, and Akaneya delivers in this regard as well. Even with all-you-can-drink plans that span two hours, the most dedicated of guests will have trouble sampling the entire catalog of Kyushu-brewed sake and shochu on its shelves. For those that don’t drink, a variety of mocktails and non-alcoholic options are available, thanks to syrups made from locally grown and harvested fruit. A variety of seating types means that Akaneya not only allows for people who want the full izakaya experience — counter seats — but also to those who want a more private meal or celebration. With its largest private room seating type accommodating a staggering 74 diners, Akaneya is the ideal place for celebrations both big and small.