Solo lunch recommendations: 6 spots around Kamakura Station
January 2024 Seasonal up date :
This time, I’m sharing some great spots in Kamakura that are perfect for dining solo—places that locals and repeat visitors often frequent. While there are places with long lines, like those at Disney theme parks on weekends, these spots offer just the right amount of wait time for a comfortable lunch experience. They’re all delicious and reasonably priced, allowing you to enjoy a meal while soaking in the local atmosphere.
The great thing about dining solo is that you’re more likely to strike up conversations with the staff or other diners. You might find yourself enjoying a chat while eating, and picking up some local tips along the way. Enjoy the laid-back vibe of Kamakura, like the locals do!
(The prices listed are based on data as of January 27, 2024. Please note that they may change in the future.)
Pho Cattun Kamakura
Komachi / Vietnamese Pho Specialty Shop
In a hidden alley of Kamakura stands a cozy pho shop run by a Vietnamese chef, offering authentic and flavorful pho. The restaurant has a minimalist menu, serving only pho, and its simple yet welcoming design gives you the feeling of being in Vietnam. The atmosphere is warm and homey, perfect for a relaxed meal.
By the way, do you know the proper way to eat pho? According to various sources, the fresh vegetables, like bean sprouts, are usually served on the side and are meant to be “dipped into the warm broth to heat up” before eating. Some types of pho also include raw meat, and it’s recommended to “submerge it and mix well” initially. Chili peppers and lime are meant to be added “during the meal” to adjust the flavor to your liking (but be cautious, as the chili peppers can be very spicy!). The brown and orange sauces on the table are likely for dipping the meat toppings in, adding an extra layer of flavor to the pho.
The pho was quite filling, but it was healthy and didn’t leave me feeling heavy afterward. I was captivated by the light broth and already eager to go back. Next time, I think I’ll try the “meatball pho.”
Address: 2-12-27 Komachi, Kamakura City, Tsuruoka Kaikan 24 Phone: 090-6025-3939 Closed: Saturdays, irregular holidays Hours: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM (or until ingredients run out)
The specialty tofu hamburger restaurant “Rokuya” in Kamakura is beloved by locals for its fluffy texture and rich flavor. The chef’s attention to detail and desire to create a delicious experience are evident in every dish. You can enjoy the tofu hamburger with a touch of yuzu pepper, or pour the leftover meat juices over your rice. Before you know it, you’ll have devoured the large, juicy hamburger. They even offer a rice refill service.
The perfectly cooked, juicy tofu hamburger is satisfyingly delicious without causing any heaviness, and the accompanying salad has a refreshing, Japanese-style flavor that complements the Kamakura vibe.
I actually learned about this place from a friend of a Kamakura local. The chef is known for making sure to interact with everyone, and it seems many of the patrons are regulars or locals. The level of crowd varies, but on the weekday I visited, there were two parties ahead of me waiting.
Address: 13-38 Onarimachi, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Hagiwara Building 1st Floor
Phone: 0467-61-0680
Business Hours: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last order: 4:00 PM)
*The shop closes when Kamakura Burg is sold out.
Currently, night service is available by reservation only.
Closed on Tuesdays.
KIRASA
Onarimachi / Light Japanese-style Broth “Shiro Tamari Men” Ramen Shop
A small ramen shop located just off the coast on the street that runs from Kamakura Station to the beach, near the entrance to Yuigahama Street. This shop uses a special blend called “shirotamari” to create a unique tare sauce, where the harmony between white soy sauce and tamari brings a rich umami and deep flavor. The soup is light with a Japanese-style base, and the noodles are slightly thin, perfectly complementing the soup. They have a firm texture, but they blend well with the soup.
The interior is clean and simple, resembling a small, cozy café. It’s a peaceful atmosphere where you can enjoy your meal alone. It’s also a great spot for a date, though that’s for another time!
Address: 4-15 Onarimachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa
Phone: 0467-81-4686
Business hours: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (until sold out)
Payment: Cash only
Closed: Check Instagram for updates on holidays
I’d like to introduce the popular restaurant “かかん,” known for its rich-flavored mapo tofu and flavorful, hearty lu rou fan (braised pork rice).
The mapo tofu is perfectly balanced with a numbing spiciness and a deep umami that leaves you craving more once you’ve tasted it. As for the lu rou fan, its sweet and savory flavor makes it an irresistible dish—it’s hard to imagine anyone not loving it.
The side dishes, when mixed in, add complexity to the overall flavor, creating a truly blissful dining experience.
A great point for Kamakura lovers is that the restaurant uses “Houeido Seimenjo” handmade dumpling wrappers, which give the dumplings a chewy, satisfying texture—perfect for pairing with a cold beer.
The atmosphere inside is lively and vibrant, attracting both locals and tourists who gather to enjoy the delicious food and fun ambiance. This is undoubtedly a must-visit spot in Kamakura, where you’ll be hooked on the mapo tofu and lu rou fan!
Address:
13-12 Onarimachi, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Phone:
0467-22-4772
Hours:
Lunch: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM (L.O.) - No reservations
Dinner: 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM (L.O.) - Reservations accepted
Reservations by phone only
Closed:
Irregular holidays, updates are posted on Instagram.
FUKUYA
Kamakura Ōmachi: Yamagata Soba, Local Sake, and Appetizers
The restaurant “Fukuya,” which I have introduced several times on this blog, is a must-visit spot for Yamagata soba. Located just off the main street, it’s tucked away on a narrow parallel road from the station. This small counter-only shop is popular with locals, repeat visitors, and soba enthusiasts alike. It’s the perfect place to enjoy soba and appetizers, accompanied by a drink of sake, ideal for an afternoon meal.
The seasonal menu is always a highlight. In the summer, the soba served with a generous portion of “dashi” is especially delicious. This dashi, a regional specialty from the Murayama area of Yamagata, consists of finely chopped summer vegetables and aromatic herbs, seasoned with soy sauce, and is traditionally eaten with rice or tofu.
You can also savor the hearty “nishin soba,” a Yamagata traditional dish, or the “niku soba,” packed with flavor and great for those with a big appetite. With the counter seating, you’re close to the chef, creating a warm, intimate dining experience. Definitely give it a try!
Address:
1-6-23 Ōmachi, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Phone:
070-9092-2980
https://fukuya2011.thebase.in/
Kamakura Katsutei Aratama
Komachi / Branded Pork Tonkatsu
A Meal Set Featuring Pork Loin Cutlet and “Shirasu & Akamoku Cream Croquette”
This satisfying set includes a perfectly fried pork loin cutlet alongside a creamy croquette filled with shirasu (whitebait) and akamoku (a type of seaweed). The meal also comes with unlimited servings of rice and shredded cabbage, ensuring you leave fully satisfied.
For those looking for just a small treat, the croquette is also available à la carte for 300 yen. A delightful option for exploring Kamakura’s unique flavors!
Kamakura Station’s “Aratama” – A Convenient Spot for Premium Pork Cutlets
Located right near Kamakura Station, Aratama offers a welcoming dining experience with minimal waiting times on weekdays—usually around 10 minutes—making it a great choice when you’re not in a rush.
The highlight here is undoubtedly the Kishu Sangenton Pork Loin Cutlet. Known for its juicy texture and sweet, flavorful fat, this premium pork pairs perfectly with a variety of condiments—try it with mustard, salt, or their rich sauce. Each bite offers a different but equally delightful experience.
Adding a touch of Kamakura’s unique charm, the restaurant also serves creative croquettes. These include the local specialty shirasu (whitebait) and akamoku (a sticky seaweed) croquette, and a decadent mozzarella-stuffed version. Each croquette is a burst of flavor, showcasing the chef’s creativity.
For a satisfying meal that leaves you full and delighted, Aratama is the perfect choice. Be sure to savor every bite!
ChatGPT:
ChatGPT
Address:
1-5-24 Komachi, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Phone:
0467-53-7131
Business Hours:
Lunch: 11:00–16:00
Dinner: 16:00–22:00
Reservations:
Please call the store directly to make a reservation. Bento and side dish orders are also accepted.
Closed:
Open year-round.
Solo Lunch in Kamakura
Enjoy a relaxed and comfortable solo lunch in Kamakura, where you can focus on eating exactly what you want. These spots, located in this popular tourist destination, are reasonably priced and well-loved by locals—perfect for those who want to skip the guesswork and enjoy a satisfying meal.
If you’re planning to visit Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine after your meal and want to spend some quiet time in a café, don’t miss our other guide, “SOLO TIME: RELAXING AT TEA SALONS & CAFES IN KAMAKURA“. It features carefully selected spots that make for perfect destinations during your Kamakura trip.
