Omicho Market

This is Kanazawa’s kitchen, which has been known as “Omicho” for about 300 years. It is always busy and vibrant, with approximately 170 stores selling fresh seasonal seafood, vegetables, prepared foods, souvenirs, and other items lined up in a narrow arcade. Some of the stores prepare food right in front of their customers, while others have eat-in seating so you can enjoy the seasonal gourmet foods on the spot. It is best to go in the morning since popular items sell out before noon.

There are over 40 restaurants offering fresh seafood at reasonable prices, such as Kanazawa’s specialty “Nodoguro” (blackthroat seaperch), sweet shrimp, and snow crab, so you can enjoy them heartily. The most popular dish is the Kaisen-don, a rice bowl topped with a rich variety of seasonal seafood, and each restaurant offers its own unique version. Another attraction is Noto beef, a premium brand offered at a reasonable price through grilled skewers, seared sushi, and rice bowls. Business hours vary by store, but most of them open at around 7 a.m. Most restaurants have only a few seats at the counter, so it is recommended to avoid lunch time.