NAKAYA: A Beloved Toyosu Market Restaurant Serving Seafood with Heart
From Middleman Roots to a Restaurant Dream
In the year 2000, deep in the bustling heart of Tokyo's Tsukiji Market, a restaurant"NAKAYA" was born. The founder, Iwata-san, opened the eatery when he was just 25 years old. His family already operated a seafood selling business for professionals, and launching the restaurant felt like a natural extension of their expertise. With access to some of the freshest seafood in the country and a deep understanding of market culture, the restaurant quickly became a favorite among both market workers and early-rising visitors. They moved to Tsukiji to Toyosu in 2018.
Midnight Preparations, Market Rhythms
While most of the city sleeps, the kitchen here is already alive. Preparation begins around midnight, and staff often arrive on the last train of the night to begin their work. By 4 a.m., workers from the market begin trickling in for breakfast, and by 5 a.m., the restaurant opens its doors to the general public. This early-morning timing has made the eatery a staple for both professionals starting their day and travelers seeking a taste of authentic Tokyo.
Signature Dishes Loved by Locals
The star of the menu is undoubtedly the kaisendon, a beautifully arranged seafood bowl featuring a generous variety of fresh fish. It’s a dish that showcases the full flavor of the market’s best catches. Another standout is the aji-fry, a perfectly breaded and fried horse mackerel filet that’s crisp on the outside and tender within. On days when large fried shrimp are available, it’s considered a must-order item—plump, golden, and full of flavor, it never disappoints.
Customized Comfort for Market Workers
What sets this restaurant apart is its deep connection to the market community. The chef has long-standing relationships with many regulars and often tailors meals to their individual preferences. There is even a "hidden menu" known mostly to market insiders, offering comforting dishes like shōgayaki (ginger pork), soba noodles, and katsuretsu (chickin cutlet). These hearty meals are designed to nourish those who work physically demanding jobs before dawn.
A Place Where Tradition Meets Hospitality
More than just a restaurant, this place embodies the spirit of Toyosu: hard work, fresh food, and genuine care for customers. Whether you’re a fishmonger grabbing a bite before sunrise or a visitor eager to experience Tokyo's food culture at its source, Iwata-san’s restaurant offers a warm seat, a hot meal, and a true taste of the market’s soul.
NAKAYA
Closed on Wednesdays and Sundays
Open from 5:00am to 13:30
Only Cash
6-5 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061, Japan
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