These open air food stalls are enjoyed all over the city and regarded as the symbol of Fukuoka. Approximately 150 Yatai are available in the city, but popular clusters of them can be found around Tenjin and Nakasu. Each stall consists of one or two chefs with different style menus at each stall. Many of the recipes are passed down from generations with popular dishes including Tonkotsu Hakata Ramen, yakitori, and mentaiko infused dishes. These food stalls in Fukuoka are no more than a few meters in size with less than 10 seats available, provide guests with rather simple and filling food, yet rates as one of the top street food cities in Asia by CNN Travel. The relaxing atmosphere at the Yatai is what attracts visitors to dine at these places. Many guests stay hours at a time to enjoy the friendly conversation with the owner chefs over various alcoholic drinks. It is common for locals to visit multiple stalls during a dinner session either alone or with friends. Yatai are normally open from 6pm to around 1am, excluding days with extreme weather. Some of the popular stands have guests wait up to an hour to enjoy this special food experience offered in Fukuoka.
