The Best Meze Dishes You Can Enjoy in Japan’s Coastal Areas

Japan’s coastal areas offer a rich culinary experience, where fresh seafood and local ingredients come together to create a variety of delectable meze dishes. Meze, often thought of as a small dish served with drinks, is prevalent in various cultures, but Japan adds its unique twist. Here are some of the best meze dishes you can enjoy when you explore the beautiful shores of Japan.

1. Sashimi
Sashimi is a quintessential Japanese dish that features thinly sliced raw fish or seafood, served with soy sauce and wasabi. In coastal areas, the fish is often caught the same day, ensuring ultimate freshness. Popular choices include tuna, salmon, and mackerel. Sashimi showcases the natural flavors of the fish, making it a perfect meze option.

2. Edamame
These young soybeans are boiled and lightly salted, making them a popular appetizer throughout Japan. Edamame is not only nutritious but also packed with flavor. This simple yet delicious dish is often shared among friends, making it a great accompaniment to drinks in coastal Japanese taverns.

3. Tsukemono (Pickled Vegetables)
Tsukemono are traditional Japanese pickles made from various vegetables, such as daikon radish, cucumbers, and eggplant. Each coastal region may have its special recipe, sometimes using local ingredients to enhance the flavors. These tangy bites are perfect for cleansing the palate between seafood dishes.

4. Shirasu-don (Whitebait Rice Bowl)
Shirasu refers to boiled and dried young sardines, commonly found in Japan's coastal waters. Served atop a bowl of rice, this dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with umami flavor. Topped with a raw egg or green onions, shirasu-don is a delightful meze that highlights the region’s seafood bounty.

5. Ikura (Salmon Roe)
This luxurious dish features briny salmon roe that bursts with flavor. Ikura is often served over rice or as part of a sushi platter. Its vibrant color and unique texture make it a show-stopping meze item that pairs wonderfully with sake or Japanese beer.

6. Takoyaki
These savory balls are made with a flour-based batter, filled with pieces of octopus, green onions, and tempura scraps. Takoyaki is typically cooked on a specialized griddle and served drizzled with takoyaki sauce and bonito flakes. This popular street food is a must-try meze dish when visiting coastal cities.

7. Grilled Fish Skewers (Kushiyaki)
In Japanese coastal regions, you can find a plethora of grilled fish skewers. These delicious, smoky bites can include various types of fish, such as mackerel or sardines, seasoned with salt or marinade. Kushiyaki is perfect for sharing and pairs beautifully with a glass of sake.

8. Yaki Imo (Roasted Sweet Potato)
For a sweet twist on meze, yaki imo is a fantastic option. Often sold from street vendors, this dish features roasted sweet potatoes, which are sweet, creamy, and rich in flavor. It’s a comforting meze that showcases Japan’s love for simple, wholesome snacks.

In conclusion, Japan's coastal areas provide a unique setting to experience a delightful array of meze dishes. From fresh seafood to pickled vegetables, each meze option incorporates local ingredients and traditional preparation methods. Whether you're enjoying a casual meal or an upscale dining experience, the coastal meze selections are sure to please your palate and elevate your culinary adventure.