Hayama is full of cafés and seafood restaurants, but have you ever had one of those days where you suddenly crave the feeling of a relaxed seaside town somewhere overseas?
That’s exactly when I found the perfect place.
Near Morito Beach, there’s a specialty fish & chips restaurant called
“The Gazebo.”
At first, I simply thought, “Oh, a fish & chips specialty shop? That’s unusual for Japan…”
But once I tried it, I was completely hooked.
Freshly fried fish.
Crispy golden batter.
A breezy terrace filled with ocean air.
I realized, “This tastes even better because it’s in Hayama.”
Today, I’d love to share all the reasons why The Gazebo became one of my favorite seaside lunch spots!
Highlight #1: The Freshly Fried Fish & Chips Are Seriously Amazing
Of course, the first thing I ordered was their signature dish:
“Fish & Chips.”
On this visit, the fish selection was swordfish and cod.
First of all, getting everything freshly fried makes such a difference.
The batter is crispy without feeling greasy, while the fish inside stays soft and flaky.
The swordfish had a rich, meaty flavor, while the cod was light and delicate.
It was so fun tasting the contrast between the two fish on one plate.
And there are so many ways to enjoy it.
First, try it plain.
Then with salt.
Lemon.
Malt vinegar.
And finally, The Gazebo’s homemade tartar sauce.
Honestly, the tartar sauce was incredible.
It’s not overly acidic, and it perfectly enhances the natural flavor of the fish. I couldn’t stop eating the fries either.
On this day, the plate was ¥1,430.
The price changes depending on the fish of the day, but from what I’ve seen, it doesn’t suddenly become outrageously expensive.
Fish & chips is one of those foods I suddenly crave every now and then. I’m honestly so happy Hayama has a specialty shop like this.
Highlight #2: The Poke Bowl Packed with Fresh Yellowtail Was Delicious Too
The other dish I ordered was the
“Poke Bowl.”
That day’s fish was yellowtail from Kumamoto.
And wow… it was even better than I expected.
There were generous chunks of yellowtail throughout the bowl, lightly seasoned with garlic.
For some reason, poke bowls taste especially perfect by the ocean.
Just like the fish & chips, the fish selection changes depending on the day’s catch.
The Gazebo sources seasonal seafood from around Japan, so there’s always a little excitement wondering, “What fish will they have today?”
This dish was also ¥1,430.
Highlight #3: The Terrace Seating Feels Perfect This Time of Year
On this visit, we chose to sit outside on the terrace.
And honestly… it was perfect.
The ocean breeze drifted through gently, and time seemed to slow down in the best possible way.
I had always thought of the Morito Beach area mainly as a place to “go see the ocean,” but this experience reminded me how wonderful it is to simply enjoy a slow meal by the sea.
Even better, the terrace seating is dog-friendly.
There were local regulars relaxing with their dogs, all looking incredibly comfortable and happy.
At the same time, there were also plenty of first-time visitors and travelers, so the atmosphere never felt intimidating or exclusive.
One thing I love about Hayama is that many places here don’t feel “fancy” in a stiff way. They simply let you relax and be yourself.
Highlight #4: Enjoying “Harbor Town Food Culture” Right Here in Hayama
When people hear “fish & chips,” most probably think of the UK.
But according to The Gazebo, this dish is actually loved in seaside towns all over the world — from the American West Coast to Hawaii and Australia.
The Gazebo brings that relaxed harbor-town culture to Hayama.
That’s probably why the atmosphere feels almost overseas somehow.
The ocean.
Cold beer.
Freshly fried fish.
A laid-back seaside vibe.
One review mentioned that the place reminded them of Baja California, and honestly… I completely understood what they meant.
Highlight #5: The Owners’ Passion for Fish Is Incredible
The Gazebo is run by husband-and-wife team Shinsuke and Nahoko Ushiki.
The two met while studying fisheries science at university, later gaining experience at places such as Hoshino Resorts before opening this restaurant.
That background explains why their attention to seafood feels so authentic.
Even though fish & chips is technically fried food, you can still truly taste the quality and character of the fish itself.
Another thing that surprised me was that even the tartar sauce and dressings are homemade.
Because the dishes are simple, every detail matters — and you can really feel the care they put into each part of the meal.
The name “Gazebo” refers to a pavilion or gathering place.
And when you visit, you can absolutely feel that spirit.
Baby & Family Note
Strollers are welcome, and the restaurant is family-friendly for babies, toddlers, and children.
With terrace seating available, it’s easy to stop by after a walk along the beach.
Rather than a loud family restaurant, this feels more like a place for a slow and relaxing seaside family lunch.
Dog-Friendly Information
Dogs are welcome on the terrace seating only.
The location is perfect for combining with a seaside walk, making it a wonderful lunch stop for visitors exploring Hayama with their dogs.
Access Information
The Gazebo
387 Horiuchi, Hayama-machi, Miura-gun, Kanagawa
Business Hours:
Monday: 11:30–14:00
Saturday & Sunday: 11:30–14:00 / 17:30–20:00
Closed: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
※ Additional irregular holidays may apply. Please check the official website.
Parking: 1 space available
Instagram: @the_gazebo_g.s._hayama
Official Website: http://www.gazebo-hayama.com/shop.html
Summary: A Perfect Seaside Food Experience in Hayama
The Gazebo turned out to be so much more than just a fish & chips shop.
Freshly fried fish.
Ocean air.
A relaxing terrace by the sea.
And above all, the owners’ desire to create a place where people can gather and truly relax.
All of those elements come together to make this place feel special.
If you ever find yourself thinking,
“I just want to enjoy something delicious by the ocean today,”
then The Gazebo might be exactly the place you’re looking for.
At Hayanavi, I’ll continue sharing places that make you want to spend more time in Hayama.
Please come follow along on Instagram too!
【Sources & References】
・The Gazebo Official Website
・Tabelog “The Gazebo”
・newcal feature article “The Gazebo: Seasonal Fish & Chips by the Ushiki Couple”
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Hello, this is Peli from Hayanavi!
Hayanavi shares beautiful spots and local favorites around Hayama.
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