Miyazaki's subtropical climate is conducive to the growth of a number of vegetables and fruits, including sweet pumpkins, oranges, mangoes, cucumbers, shiitake mushrooms, and chestnuts. In summer, a popular dish is Hiyajiru, a rice dish topped with soup made from fish, miso soybean paste, tofu, cucumbers, and other ingredients, while year-round dishes include chicken namban (deep-fried chicken breast served with a sweet-and-sour tartar sauce) and sushi rolls made with lettuce, shrimp, and mayonnaise. Miyazaki is also known for its beef and shochu, an alcoholic drink made from sweet potatoes, buckwheat, or corn.
In addition to the choices below, a great restaurant for a splurge in Seagaia is Queen Alice Agape, located on the 42nd floor of the Sheraton Grande Ocean Resort (tel. 0985/21-1133) with sweeping ocean views. Utilizing fresh Miyazaki ingredients, its Italian cuisine is a collaboration of resident Chef Manaka and Ishinabe Hiroshi (nicknamed the Iron Chef), with past dishes ranging from pepperoncini with tiger crab from Aoshima Port to grilled Miyazaki beef filet served with organic Aya vegetables. Set lunches, served daily 11:30am to 2pm, cost ¥3,000 and ¥5,000 ($25 and $42/£13 and £21); set dinners, available 6 to 9pm, are ¥8,500 and ¥10,000 ($71 and $83/£35 and £42).
