A new Korean dining restaurant, "Korean Dining Yaomi," is set to open its first location on Friday, February 27, 2026, in the underground Okayama Ichibangai shopping area directly connected to JR Okayama Station.
"Korean Dining Yaomi" is a concept built around the Korean culinary philosophies of "isshokudogen" (food as medicine) and "gomigoshoku" (five flavors, five colors), crafted with Korean cuisine enthusiasts in mind. Korean culinary traditions are blended with a Japanese sensibility, resulting in dishes that are approachable and gently flavorful for Japanese palates.
The menu focuses on dishes that are "not too spicy" and "not too heavy," making generous use of locally sourced Okayama ingredients alongside Korean staples. Local Okayama beverages are also available alongside classic Korean drinks, reflecting a commitment to local produce. Guests can enjoy dining from lunch through dinner.
The interior is designed with motifs of traditional Korean alleyways and old-style homes, creating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Counter seating is available for solo diners, and a semi-private room is on offer for groups and parties. Some seating features materials inspired by Okayama's famous denim heritage, with indigo blue incorporated into staff uniforms and even the chopstick sleeves at the table.
Dinner Menu
During dinner hours, the menu centers on "Takkamari" (whole chicken hot pot) and "Hormone Nabe" (offal hot pot), dishes rooted in the Korean philosophy of food as medicine. Alongside these, guests will find classics such as pajeon (savory pancakes) and chicken, as well as hand-crafted namul and side dishes that change daily. All dishes make generous use of vegetables.
Local Okayama ingredients are woven throughout the menu, including Okayama Peach Pork and Momotaro Tomatoes prepared in Korean-style dishes.
For drinks, fresh makgeolli is available by the bottle and glass, along with Chamisul-based cocktails, Okayama local beer "Doppo," and Okayama plum liqueur "Oo Okadai." The lineup is designed to be approachable for a wide range of guests.
| Drink Menu (Examples) | Price |
|---|---|
| Geuseuntang Fresh Makgeolli | ¥680 |
| Oo Okadai Plum Liqueur | ¥580 |
| Chamisul Cocktail (Muscat / Plum) | ¥560 |
| Misu Cocktail (Sour / Makgeolli) | ¥560 |
| Okayama Local Beer Doppo | ¥880 |
All prices include tax.
Lunch Menu
At lunchtime, five types of set meals are available, with Korean staples such as Possam, Bibimbap, and Sundubu as the main dish. Each set comes with multigrain rice and a colorful selection of daily-rotating side dishes and namul—healthy, vibrant, and appealing for a nutritious midday meal.
Interior
The interior draws its mood from the streets and homes of traditional Korea, achieving a calm and welcoming atmosphere under soft lighting. Counter seating is available for solo visitors, and a semi-private room caters to groups and parties. The colorful dishes, prepared with the five flavors and five colors philosophy in mind, also make for a photogenic dining experience.
Restaurant Information
- Restaurant name: Korean Dining Yaomi
- Opening date: Friday, February 27, 2026
- Hours: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Last order 9:00 PM)
- Seats: 39
- Location: Okayama Ichibangai Underground B1F, Ekimoto-machi, Kita-ku, Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture
- Phone: 086-237-0510
- Brand website: https://gourmet-kineya.co.jp/brands/yaomi/
The name "Yaomi" is derived from the characters 八百美 and 八百味 — "yao" meaning "countless" — expressing the wish that guests discover a limitless variety of delicious flavors at the restaurant.
