Maruman in Miyazaki: The Classic Place for Charcoal-Grilled Chicken

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Maruman in Miyazaki: The Classic Place for Charcoal-Grilled Chicken

If You Want to Try Miyazaki’s Famous Chicken, Start Here

When people think of Miyazaki cuisine, charcoal-grilled chicken—momo-yaki—is one of the first dishes that comes to mind. Among the many places serving it, Maruman has long been loved in Nishitachi, the largest nightlife district in Miyazaki City. The smoky aroma of charcoal and the robust flavor of local chicken leave a strong impression.

Here, even the time spent waiting while the chicken cooks over the flame feels enjoyable—surrounded by the sounds and scent of the grill.

This guide covers basic information about Maruman, the atmosphere, menu highlights, and the best times to visit. Use it as a reference, especially if you’re planning your first visit.

The Original Yakitori Maruman

Exterior of Maruman at night with a warmly lit sign

Maruman is a long-established restaurant located in the heart of Miyazaki City, known for serving charcoal-grilled Miyazaki local chicken. The chicken is grilled intensely over charcoal, resulting in a smoky aroma and deep flavor. Locals and travelers alike visit regularly for the taste and atmosphere.

Maruman operates both a main branch and a second branch, located just one minute apart on foot.

Maruman Main Branch – Basic Information
ItemDetails
Address3 - 6-7 Tachibanadori - Nishi, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture
Hours5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
ClosedSunday
ReservationsNot available
Maruman Second Branch – Basic Information
ItemDetails
Address3 - 8-7 Tachibanadori - Nishi, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture
Hours5:00 pm - 11:30 pm
ClosedMonday
ReservationsNot available

A Cozy Interior with a View of the Grill

When you step into the second branch, the first thing you’ll notice is the charcoal grill. From the counter seats, you can watch the chicken slowly cook—smoke rising, fat sizzling, and the aroma filling the space.

Counter seating facing the open charcoal grill

There are also tatami-style seating areas in the back, making it easy to dine alone or with friends and family.

Tatami seating area in the back with a warm interior atmosphere

While waiting, regulars chat while watching the grill, and travelers unwind with their first beer of the evening. It’s a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

A glass of draft beer and a small cucumber dish on the counter

The sound of the flames, the aroma of charcoal, and the soft conversation around you create an easy, pleasant dining pace.

A Menu Focused on Miyazaki Local Chicken

Maruman offers a range of dishes based around Miyazaki local chicken. The signature charcoal-grilled thigh stands out, but different cuts and preparations reveal different flavors.

A plate of grilled chicken offal Food menu featuring various Miyazaki chicken dishes
Food Menu (As of November 2025)
Food Menu
Menu ItemPrice
Charcoal - Grilled Thigh¥1,600
Grilled Chicken Wings (5 pcs)¥900
Chicken Tataki¥950
Grilled Chicken Liver¥800
Grilled Gizzard¥800
Negibarashi (Green Onion & Chicken)¥1,500
Chicken Pilaf¥1,500
Vegetable Salad¥400
Rice Ball¥250
Rice (Large)¥350
Rice (Small)¥250
Drink Menu (As of November 2025)
Drink Menu
DrinkPrice
Draft Beer (Medium)¥680
Draft Beer (Small)¥480
Bottled Beer¥750
Shochu (Glass)¥600
Shochu (2 servings)¥1,400
Sake¥800 - ¥1,200
Cold Sake¥1,200
Hyakunen no Kodoku Highball¥900
Riku Highball¥650
Kaku Highball¥600
Lemon Sour¥600
Hebesu Sour¥600
Hyuganatsu Sour¥600
Umeshu (Rock)¥600
Non - Alcoholic Beer¥550
Guarana¥450
Cola¥450
Orange Juice¥450
Oolong Tea¥450
Hyuganatsu Drink¥450

The Flavor of Charcoal-Grilled Thigh

Charcoal-grilled thigh served with soup and cucumber

The signature dish is the charcoal-grilled thigh. The chicken is grilled intensely over charcoal, resulting in a lightly charred exterior and juicy interior. The dark color is not burnt—it’s a sign of expert control over high heat.

We ordered it boneless, known as barashi, which makes it easier to enjoy especially on a first visit.

Boneless charcoal-grilled thigh served on a plate

Each bite brings out the natural richness of the chicken, accented simply by salt. The accompanying soup and cucumber refresh the palate so the dish never feels heavy.

Close-up of charcoal-grilled Miyazaki chicken thigh

It’s satisfying enough for a travel dinner, yet surprisingly easy to finish.

Maruman is well known among both locals and visitors, and does not take reservations. Seating is first-come, first-served, and wait times vary by hour.

The easiest time to get in is right at opening around 17:00. On weekdays, you may still get in around 18:00, but after 19:00 expect a wait.

Entrance curtain of Maruman Second Branch

The main and second branches are just one minute apart, and the food style is similar. If one is full, simply check the other.

If you want to minimize waiting, aim for earlier hours.

A Classic Miyazaki Taste Worth Seeking Out

Maruman’s charcoal-grilled chicken showcases the essence of Miyazaki flavor—smoke, umami, and craftsmanship. The sound of the grill, the aroma of charcoal, the savoriness that expands with each bite—every part reflects the skill of an establishment beloved for generations.

Because it’s popular, lines are common. Visiting right at opening makes the experience smooth.

If you’re traveling to Miyazaki, Maruman is a must-visit for an authentic momo-yaki experience.

Exterior of Maruman main branch in the evening
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