Located just south of Tokyo, Yokohama is Japan’s second largest city and a dynamic port city known for its blend of Western influence and traditional Japanese culture. Since the opening of its port in 1859, Yokohama has been a gateway for international trade, shaping its identity as a cosmopolitan city. From historic foreign concessions to modern attractions such as the Minato Mirai district, the city offers a unique mix of sights, tastes, and cultural experiences.
History of Yokohama
Yokohama was a small fishing village until Japan opened its doors to the world in 1859, establishing it as one of the first international trading ports. Foreign settlement brought Western architecture, food, and customs that blended with Japanese traditions. The city’s cosmopolitan spirit began here. In 1870, Japan’s first Western-style bakery, Fujiya, opened in Yokohama. In 1872, the country’s first railroad connected Yokohama to Tokyo, fostering economic and cultural exchange. Yokohama also produced Japan’s first ice cream in 1869, brewed its first beer in 1870, and served its first Western-style hotel cuisine. Over time, it became a center of culinary innovation.
Though devastated by the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and World War II, Yokohama rebuilt itself as a symbol of resilience and progress.Located just south of Tokyo, Yokohama is Japan’s second largest city and a dynamic port city known for its blend of Western influence and traditional Japanese culture. Since opening its port in 1859, Yokohama has been a gateway for international trade, shaping its identity as a cosmopolitan city. From historic foreign concessions to modern attractions such as the Minato Mirai district, the city offers a unique mix of sights, tastes, and cultural experiences.
Yokohama Food’s Timeline
1859 – Yokohama Port Opens
With the opening of the port, a foreign settlement was established, and a Chinese community soon formed, laying the foundation for today’s Yokohama Chinatown.
1862 – First British Bread Introduced
British baker Robert Clark began selling English bread. His legacy lives on through Uchikipan, one of Japan’s oldest bakeries.
1863 – Founding of Tanakaya
Tanakaya, Yokohama’s oldest traditional restaurant, opened. It’s said Ryoma Sakamoto’s wife once worked there as a server.
1868 – Beef Hot Pot (Gyūnabe) Boom
As Japan embraced Western culture, gyūnabe became a symbol of modernization and change.
1869 – Japan’s First Ice Cream Appears
In Bashamichi, Fusazō Machida created “aisukurin,” considered Japan’s first ice cream.
1869 – First Western Restaurant
A former servant to foreigners, Yagura Ōno, opened a Western-style restaurant in Naka Ward, later known as Kaiyōtei.
1870 – First Beer Brewery
Japan’s first large-scale brewery began operations in Yokohama.
1889 – Birth of the “Bamboo” Cocktail
Louis Eppinger, manager of the Grand Hotel, created Japan’s first original cocktail, the Bamboo.
1908 – Founding of Kiyoken
Kiyoken began as a bento shop at Yokohama Station. Its signature shiumai dumplings launched in 1928.
1922 – Fujiya Popularizes Shortcake
The second Fujiya store opened in Isezaki-chō, helping make strawberry shortcake a beloved dessert.
1927 – Seafood Doria Invented
The dish was created at Hotel New Grand by its first head chef, Saly Weil.
Late 1940s – Sanma-men Debuts
Stir-fried vegetables over noodles, sanma-men became a local favorite post-WWII.
1950s – Spaghetti Napolitan Created
Chef Shigetada Irie at Hotel New Grand reimagined ketchup pasta into what we now call Napolitan.
1974 – Yoshimuraya Launches Iekei Ramen
Iekei ramen, with its thick noodles and pork-soy broth, was born in Yokohama.
1994 – Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum Opens
Japan’s first food-themed amusement park brought regional ramen to one place, sparking a national craze.
Source: Yokohama Official Visitors Guide
Food in Yokohama
Yokohama’s food culture is a rich blend of Japanese, Western and Chinese influences. Signature dishes such as Napolitan spaghetti and seafood doria reflect its Western connections, while Sanma-men ramen traces its roots to Chinatown. The city is also famous for its role in introducing modern Japanese staples such as beer, ice cream, and bread. Bento culture also thrives here, with Kiyoken’s shiumai bento a popular favorite. Whether you’re sampling nostalgic yoshoku or sipping local craft beer, Yokohama’s culinary offerings are as diverse as its history.
Napolitan Spaghetti
This ketchup-based pasta dish may sound Italian, but it was invented in Yokohama after World War II. The chef at the New Grand Hotel created it after seeing American soldiers eating spaghetti with ketchup. The dish was refined with sauteed onions, green peppers, and ham or sausage for a simple yet comforting taste. Its enduring popularity makes it a staple in Japanese family restaurants. The original version can still be enjoyed at the New Grand Hotel’s restaurant, The Cafe.
There are various ways of arrangements Napolitan! See more here.
Seafood Doria
Another invention of Hotel New Grand, seafood doria is a Japanese twist on a Western-style rice gratin. Made with buttered rice, shrimp cream sauce and melted cheese, this rich dish showcases Yokohama’s flair for fusion cuisine. Invented by French chef Saly Weil in the 1920s, it quickly became a signature Yokohama food. Its creamy texture and umami-rich sauce make it a nostalgic favorite that continues to charm locals and tourists alike.
Where to enjoy the best Doria in Yokohama? Find out here!
Sanma-men
Sanma-men is a ramen dish that originated in Yokohama’s Chinatown area, characterized by a thick soy-based broth topped with stir-fried vegetables such as bean sprouts and cabbage. “Sanma” comes from the Chinese word for fresh vegetables. First served at Gyokusentei, this warming noodle soup became a hit for its satisfying, slightly thickened broth and healthy ingredients. It’s a perfect choice for cold days and a great introduction to Yokohama-style Chinese food.
How to create this Sanma men dish at home? Click here to find out more!
Shiumai Bento (Kiyoken)
Shiumai bento is one of Yokohama’s most popular local dishes. Introduced by Kiyoken in 1954, it features succulent pork dumplings served with rice, pickled vegetables, and seasonal side dishes. Conveniently sold at train stations, it became a must-have for train travelers throughout the Kanto region. The flavor is consistent, comforting, and deeply associated with Yokohama’s culinary image. The secret lies in its simplicity and attention to texture, especially the distinctive pop of the green pea on top of each shiumai.
Click here for details about Shiumai Bento.
Yokohama Beer
Yokohama is the birthplace of beer in Japan, and local breweries proudly carry on the tradition. Founded in 1995, Yokohama Beer offers a wide range of craft options including pilsners, weizens, and IPAs. Carefully brewed with rich aromas and bold flavors, these beers pair beautifully with local cuisine. At the brewery’s restaurant, Umaya no Shokutaku, visitors can enjoy fresh pours alongside hearty meals made with locally sourced ingredients.
The world of Yokohama Beer right here!
Recommended places to enjoy Yokohama cuisine
Hotel New Grand (The Cafe)
The Cafe, a historic location where Neapolitan spaghetti and seafood doria were first served, offers a classic Western-Japanese food experience. With elegant interiors and views of the bay, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a piece of culinary history. The original recipes are still prepared here, making it a destination for food lovers and history buffs alike.
Gyokusentei (玉泉亭)
This long-established Chinese restaurant in Naka Ward is known as the birthplace of sanma-men. Now in its third generation, Gyokusentei maintains its original style of cooking, using fresh vegetables and a hearty broth that defines the dish. The cozy, no-frills atmosphere adds to the charm, and regulars swear by the consistency and nostalgic taste.
Kiyoken (崎陽軒)
A Yokohama institution, Kiyoken is famous for its shiumai bento, available at most train stations in the area. The flagship store offers fresh versions and seasonal variations of food, while the museum and kitchen tour provide insight into the company’s long-standing popularity. Its commitment to tradition and taste makes it a local icon.
Yokohama Beer Umaya no Shokutaku
Attached to the Yokohama Beer brewery, this casual restaurant serves freshly brewed beers along with hearty fare such as charcuterie platters, grilled meats and seasonal specials. The rustic setting and local vibe make it a great place to unwind after sightseeing. It’s especially popular with craft beer fans who want to try Japanese brewing with a Yokohama twist.
Takeaway
More than just a port city, Yokohama is a culinary playground steeped in history, culture and creativity. Whether you’re indulging in retro Western-style dishes, slurping down ramen born in Chinatown, or sampling local craft beer, the city offers something unique for every palate. No trip here is complete without tasting the stories and flavors that make Yokohama a true pioneer in Japanese food culture.
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