Although Kobe’s Chinatown is a major international attractor to the city, Chinese isn’t the only cultural influence worth exploring in this Kansai metropolis. Being a popular port city has brought a diverse array of international cultures to Kobe, and one of the best ways to experience this diversity is through food. Next time you’re considering making reservations at that Kobe beef specialty restaurant, why not take a break from the local delicacies and try out one of these delicious international options?
To help you narrow down your decision, we’ve rounded up a list of some of the most notable and reputable restaurants featuring international menus.
Indian
For some incredible Indian food, there’s no better place in Kansai than Chef Bjon’s Sona Rupa. Try the soup curried lentils or tandoori chicken, and don’t miss out on one of their famous kebabs!
Sona Rupa
Where: Across the street from the B Kobe Hotel on the 3rd floor, 2-2-9, Shimoyamatedori, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture 650-0011
Hours:
Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Dinner: 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Pricing:
Lunch Course:
Monday-Saturday: 1,200 – 5,500 yen
Sunday: 1,650 – 5,500 yen
Dinner Course: 3,600 – 5,500 yen
à la carte: 3,000 – 6,000 yen
Tel: 078-322-0252
Website (English): http://www.kcc.zaq.ne.jp/sonarupa/top.html
American/Vegetarian
Vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike will love the delicious options at this surprising plant-based cafe in the heart of Kobe beef land! Try one of their delicious wraps, burritos, or salads!
Modern Ark Pharm Cafe
Where: 3-11-15 Kitanagasa, Chuo-ku, Kobe City, Japan, 650-0012
Hours: Monday to Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Tel: 078-3913052
Jamaican/Caribbean
The owner, Mr. Winston, is an expert on Caribbean cuisine! Be sure to give their jerk chicken or the Rice and Festivals dish a try for a spicy island treat.
Jamaicana
Where: 1-22-27 Nakayamatedori, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture
Hours:
Tuesday to Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Tel: 81 78-251-6488
French Fusion
Located in one of Kobe’s only outdoor dining areas, Bistrot Cafe will please all of your senses. If you can get a table in this popular restaurant, make sure and try the beef bourguignon and crème brûlée for dessert in addition to their lineup of delicious soups, salads, pizzas, and sandwiches!
Bistrot Cafe de Paris
Where: 1 Chome-7-21 Yamamotodōri, Chūō-ku, Kōbe, Hyōgo Prefecture 650-0003
Hours: Monday to Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Tel: 078-241-9448
Website (translation available): http://cafe-de-paris.jp/
German Bakery
This popular bakery is located inside the former Kobe Union Church, so dining in here is an experience! Whether you’re just stopping in to pick up some pastries or dining in for some delightful sandwiches and soups, Cafe Freundlieb won’t disappoint.
Cafe Freundlieb
Where: 4-6-15 Ikuta-machi, Chūō-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture
Hours: Monday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Tel: 078-231-6051
Website (Japanese/English): http://freundlieb.jp/
American/European
Allow the warmly-lit and jazz-filled ambience to take over your senses as you dine on burgers, sandwiches, soups, and Nailey’s infamous caesar salad.
Nailey’s Grill
Where: 2 Chome-8-12 Kanōchō, Chūō-ku, Kōbe, Hyōgo Prefecture 650-0001
Hours:
Monday to Friday from 6:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.
Saturday & Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. & 6:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.
Tel: 078-231-2008
Reference website (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/naileysgrill
Chinese
Located in one of the oldest Western-style houses in Kobe, Totenkaku will take you back in time for your delicious authentic Chinese cuisine experience. Make sure to try out their world famous Peking duck, which is flown in from China, and wash it down with one of their traditional floral teas.
Totenkaku Royal Chinese Restaurant
Where: Funadochō, Ashiya, Hyogo Prefecture 659-0093
Hours:
Monday to Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. & 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Tel: 0797-32-8181
Website (English Available): http://www.totenkaku.com/
By 663highland (Own work) [GFDL, CC-BY-SA-3.0 or CC BY 2.5], via Wikimedia Commons
