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The nightlife district of Nishitachi in Miyazaki City is known for its warm lantern glow and relaxed atmosphere as people from inside and outside the prefecture begin to gather after dusk. In a quiet corner of this lively area sits a small izakaya called Taban.
It’s unpretentious, yet refined. The owner welcomes you with just the right amount of distance, the dishes are arranged with care, and gentle aromas surround you. It’s a place where eating alone feels comfortable and natural.
In this article, we introduce Taban, a cozy modern izakaya where solo travelers can relax and enjoy local flavors at their own pace.
Taban is a small izakaya located along Nishitachidori in Miyazaki City. It offers thoughtfully prepared dishes and drinks in a stylish yet relaxed interior—very much like a contemporary take on the classic Japanese small-plate eatery.
The name “Taban” comes from a regional European word used to refer to taverns, snack bars, and casual drinking spots.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Chicken, Fish and Sake Taban |
| Opened | February 2022 |
| Business Hours | 6:00 pm - 3:00 am |
| Closed | Tuesday |
| Smoking | All seats smoking OK |
| Access | Along Sun Valley Street |
| Address | 3 - 7-6 Tachibanadori Nishi, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki 880 - 0001 Japan |
| Official Instagram | @taban_goshima |
At Taban, almost every menu item can be ordered in a half-size portion. Especially when traveling, you may want to try many different local dishes in small amounts. This half-size option is incredibly helpful—perfect for solo diners.
The restaurant is counter seating only, creating a calm and relaxed atmosphere. The counter-style layout and warm wooden interior feel like a modern reinterpretation of a Showa-era small eatery.
While fish dishes are also available, chicken dishes are the signature—including chicken nanban and chicken tataki.
The charcoal-grilled items are particularly recommended, made with carefully selected Miyazaki chicken.
They also use tender cuts that are easy to enjoy, even for those who prefer milder textures. Combined with the half-size portions, you can feel the thoughtful attention put into the dining experience.
Fish and seasonal dishes are also offered—so many that choosing what to order becomes a fun dilemma.
The drink menu is extensive, offering beer, shochu, sake, wine, whiskey, and more.
We ordered the owner’s recommendation: Chicken Tataki, in a half portion. The half portion is also priced at approximately half the full-size dish.
The half-size serving is just right when dining alone—another thoughtful detail that makes the experience comfortable.
You can choose between garlic soy sauce or special nanban vinegar sauce.
The chicken was tender, springy, and full of flavor. The freshness and subtle sweetness that deepens with each bite were outstanding.
The owner and staff are warm and friendly, making it enjoyable even for solo diners.
The interior is clean and well-kept, allowing you to savor your meal in a calm space.
Small but refined, and with high-quality dishes, this is a place that leaves a lasting impression.
If you’re traveling solo in Miyazaki and want to enjoy local flavors in Nishitachi, Taban is definitely worth a visit.
