We had done our research and numerous sources mentioned the Bungo Beef Mabushi at Yufumabushi Shin as a must try local specialty in Yufuin. The restaurant was conveniently located along Ekimae Dori which was the main road leading to and from Yufuin station. It was only one minute away by foot, which was practically right in front of the station. This was their satellite location, their main location was located across the street from Kinrin Lake.

We parked across the street in the Japan Craft Parking Lot. The restaurant was located on the second floor of a two story building. It was a little hard to spot from the street, as there was only a sign and a staircase. We got into the restaurant around 17:30. It was already pretty busy when we got there, but we only had to wait for a couple minutes.

We were seated in a separate room off to the side. The sitting tables were on a raised platform, so we had to take our shoes off before getting on. We placed our bags down and got settled on some comfortable square cushions.

The menu was pretty simple with Bungo Beef, Chicken, and Eel Mabushi sets being the most popular. They also had separate meat plates, various sides, and a robust selection of alcohol to choose from. We decided to share a Bungo Beef Mabushi set and a Chicken Mabushi set.

Yufumabushi Shin Food Review

First to come out was a long plate filled with different side dishes. Most of the them were marinated root vegetables. We liked how the lite soy based marinade enhanced the natural taste of the sides without overpowering or covering them up. Our favorites where the sweet rolled egg cake, fried tofu, and kiriboshi daikon.

Next out was the Bungo Beef Mabushi and the Chicken Mabushi. The Mabushi came in these beautiful ceramic pots. The meat and green onion were placed on a bed of rice. We mixed them up and served them in smaller bowls. The meat was very tender and moist. It had great flavor and there was a fair amount of it. We really liked how the seasoning from the beef had seeped into the rice.

The set came with a small plate of picked vegetables that added some additional flavor and texture. They also had this collection of spices to choose from. After we finished the mabushi, we poured some soup stock into the pot. The rice that had crusted onto the pot began to loosen and we were left with a flavorful rice porridge.

As we were leaving, a long line had formed outside. The entire staircase leading to the second floor was filled with people waiting in line. We recommend going early if possible.

Final Thoughts

We enjoyed our Yufumabushi Shin Mabushi meal. We agree with the recommendations we read online that said Yufumabushi Shin was a must go to spot in Yufuin. The prices were a little on the high side, but this was to be expected as we were at a popular restaurant in a famous tourism area. We can’t wait to come back next time and try their Eel Mabushi.

More to Come…

Here is the link for Yufumabushi Shin.