This is the best steak bowl I’ve ever had. I can’t speak to the people who have had a bad experience here with the staff, but we had an amazing service and our situation was less than desirable. First of all, we got there around 8:45pm, last call is at 9pm and it closes at 10:30pm. Not a great look. Second of all, it’s cash only (or QR payment which we don’t have) so we had cash, but knew we wouldn’t have enough. So while my sister and I order and sit down, we sent my dad to get more cash. This restaurant sits atop a big hill and the stairs you need to take from our accommodation were literally a death trap (see picture: during the night and during the day). Now, my dad can’t see very well in general, but add on these stairs, during the night and Google Map is acting up? Absolutely not. Mans got lost. I’m sitting there with my sister, promising this nice waitress by Google Translate that my dad is coming with cash while she is serving us food that we seem like we might just dine and dash. I tell her he got lost and missed the stairs, proceed to show her a picture of the stairs and she goes “Oooh” as if these were notoriously known for something. I send my sister to fetch my father, another waitress FOLLOWS her through the darkness to get my dad, unbeknownst to my sister’s knowledge. She escorts them back safely to the restaurant and all is well. Mind you while all of this is happening, the waitress is asking me about my tattoos and saying how cool and cute they are and making conversation. All in all, the staff ladies were all very lovely. We went back another time right before we left Hakone because the food was so good.
Overview
Iroriya Rice Bowl in the heart of Miyanoshita, Hakone, is a cozy and delightful spot that’s perfect for those looking to dive into authentic Japanese comfort food. Located at 296 Miyanoshita, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0404, Japan, it offers a unique dining experience that's both casual and full of rich flavors. Whether you're a local or a tourist exploring the beautiful Hakone area, this restaurant should be on your must-try list.
What makes Iroriya Rice Bowl stand out is its dedication to traditional Japanese cuisine, particularly its signature rice bowls, which have earned it a strong reputation in the region. The rice bowls are crafted with great care, featuring a variety of fresh ingredients that showcase the best of local produce. From savory grilled meats to perfectly seasoned vegetables, every bite is a taste of Japan’s rich culinary heritage.
One of the highlights of this restaurant is the variety of options available on the menu. You can find rice bowls topped with everything from tender, marinated pork to crispy fried chicken. For seafood lovers, there are options with fresh fish, including salmon and tuna, making it a great spot for anyone craving a hearty and satisfying meal. Each rice bowl is served with a side of miso soup and pickled vegetables, giving a complete and balanced meal that feels both nourishing and comforting.
The atmosphere at Iroriya Rice Bowl is also a huge part of its charm. The warm, rustic decor and the inviting ambiance make it a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy your meal. The friendly staff are always happy to guide you through the menu, helping you select the perfect dish based on your preferences. Whether you're eating in with a group of friends or dining solo, the service is always attentive, making you feel right at home.
One of the standout features of Iroriya Rice Bowl is its commitment to quality. The restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that every dish is fresh and full of flavor. The rice bowls are made with short-grain Japanese rice, which is the ideal base for any rice bowl. The meats and seafood are carefully prepared and cooked to perfection, ensuring each dish is not only delicious but also well-balanced.
The restaurant also places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction, as reflected in the many glowing reviews from patrons. Guests often mention how the flavors are both familiar and exciting, a true testament to the restaurant's ability to blend traditional techniques with modern flavors. If you’re in the mood for something truly comforting yet satisfying, Iroriya Rice Bowl offers an experience you won’t soon forget.
For those interested in the local culture and history of Hakone, visiting Iroriya Rice Bowl offers more than just a meal-it’s a chance to enjoy the warmth of Japanese hospitality while indulging in food that’s been carefully prepared with love. The rice bowls are a perfect introduction to the region’s food culture, and the overall dining experience is one that many customers find themselves returning for.
In terms of accessibility, the restaurant is conveniently located, making it easy to stop by whether you're exploring the surrounding sights or simply looking for a cozy meal after a day of adventure. The menu also offers various options for those with dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian and gluten-free choices, ensuring that everyone can find something that suits their taste.
Whether you're a rice bowl aficionado or new to this comforting Japanese dish, Iroriya Rice Bowl is a fantastic place to explore traditional Japanese flavors in a welcoming setting. So, if you ever find yourself in the picturesque town of Hakone, be sure to make your way to Miyanoshita and treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ BeerDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ ToiletCrowd
✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservations ✓ Usually a waitPayments
✓ PayPay ✓ Rakuten PayParking
✓ Free parking lotPhotos
Location
Reviews
The abalone rice bowl was awesome. Steak bowl was average, not because it wasn’t good, just because there are so much good ones in Japan. The service was very average, don’t appear to welcome tourists. Surprised they have an English menu. The roads leading to this place is very narrow, so drive a smaller car.
Everyone was super nice and the food was delicious. Would definitely recommend the grilled eggplant, steak bowl, and chicken karrage in addition to the sashimi included with the service. The server and chef were very kind and appreciated our effort to speak broken japanese. Previous commentors who thought the women were rude probably put zero effort into their communication and possess no understanding or patience.
It was a cute restaurant. I dined alone as a foreigner. They knew this and were considerate. The rice bowl was good, and you get some extra things to put on top of it and a miso soup for after. It’s a cute place and decent value.
Excellent meat bowl. It was light and will melt in your mouth with all it's different flavours. The rice also has a good taste. The side dishes were simple and yet felt complex. The fish bowl (albalone) which my mother had was delicious, she said. A quaint little restaurant to recommend. Not for vegans sadly
This was recommended by our hostel host. The dishes were clean and simple but delicious. The appetizer was the best dish. The place has an authentic japanese feels.
One of the best meals I had in Japan. I have no idea how this place doesn’t have a higher rating. The staff doesn’t speak much English but are very friendly and everything on the menu is delicious.
I was cautious from the other reviews, but was pleasantly surprised by my experience, I thought I should give it some balance. The location is a bit hidden, but the food was great and the staff/owner were friendly. I don't know much Japanese, but they welcomed me and even saw me off the front door after I finished. The place is a simple, quaint diner that fits three tables of four people - that's it. They seated me on one of the tables even though I was dining alone. Hakone diners are usually closed by 4pm. This is one of the few gems that remain open until 10.30pm. I'm glad I made the trip instead of just onigiri in the hotel room. ごちそうさまでした!