If you read this, you will be fine as a first-time customer. Here are tips for making the most of your time at a yatai.

Q: What time do the yatai stalls open?

Some stalls open as early as 6:00 p.m. but most stalls open between 6:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Most of the stalls close around midnight.

Q: Are the yatai closed on certain dates or days of the week?

Yatai stalls have no fixed holidays. Holidays vary depending on each stall. Many close irregularly, and some do not open in rainy or stormy conditions.

Q: Can I make a reservation?

Some yatai take bookings but not many.

Q: What should I be careful about before going to yatai?

  • There are no toilets in yatai. Ask the staff where the nearest toilets are.
  • Try not to take luggage with you.
    Stalls are small. So, we recommend that you leave any luggage in public lockers or at your hotel. Travel light when going to yatai.
  • Go to yatai in small groups. Groups of 2 to 3 people are recommended. It’s also fine to go on your own.
    Yatai have limited seating, so you may not be able to enter if you go in a large group.

Q: What are common specialties at yatai ?

Tonkotsu ramen [noodles in pork bone broth], yakitori [grilled skewers], and oden [Japanese stewed ingredients] are favorites at any stall. Yakiramen [stir-fried noodles] is becoming popular these days. Check the link below for more information.
Regular Yatai Favorites [https://gofukuoka.jp/yatai-food.html]
Note that food stalls do not serve raw food.

Q: What kind of drinks are available?

Many yatai offer beer, saké, shōchū, oolong tea, cola, and orange juice.

Q: Are there mandatory appetizers or cover charges at yatai ?

At most yatai, you will not be served mandatory appetizers or asked to pay cover charges. However, some bar-type yatai offer such appetizers or ask for a cover charge.

Q: How do I enter yatai?

Ask a staff member, "Two people. OK?" The staff member will guide you to a seat.
If there is a queue, line up at the end. You will be seated in order.

Q: What should I do after entering a yatai?

  • Check the prices on the menu. Then order your drinks and food. When ordering, speak up so that the staff can hear you.
  • It is considered polite to order at least one drink and one dish per person.
  • Pay when you leave. Say: “Check please.” to the staff at the end of your meal.

Q: Can I pay using my credit card?

Most yatai only accept cash. Only about 10% of stalls accept credit cards.

Q How can I enjoy yatai?

  • Going to about three food stalls is recommended instead of just one. Each stall has a wide variety of dishes on the menu. Enjoy yatai hopping.
  • The joy of yatai is communicating with the staff and fellow diners sitting next to you. So be brave and try talking to them!