Savoring Tradition: A Dive into Tokyo's Cuisine Scene
Discover the heart of Japanese cuisine in Tokyo, where ancient traditions meet modern flavours. This guide highlights Tokyo's must-try dishes, from fresh seafood delights at Tokyo Bay to the timeless appeal of traditional Japanese food.
Experience the city's famous hot pot dish, a symbol of culinary artistry, and join Tokyo food tours for an insider's look at local specialties. Whether a street food adventure or a fine dining experience, our concise guide offers the ultimate journey through Tokyo's diverse food landscape.
Embrace the fusion of tastes that makes Tokyo a dream destination for food enthusiasts.
Top 10 Food Delights in Tokyo
Tokyo, a gastronomic powerhouse, offers many culinary experiences that cater to every taste and preference. Here's a Tokyo food guide to some of the must-try food experiences in Tokyo, each offering a unique glimpse into the city's rich culinary landscape.
1. Sushi and Sashimi
Tsukiji Outer Market: Once part of the famous Tsukiji Fish Market, this area is still home to various sushi restaurants where you can enjoy fresh sushi and sashimi.
High-End Sushi Restaurants: For a more upscale experience, visit one of Tokyo's many Michelin-starred sushi establishments.
Dive deep into Tokyo's culinary heart with a journey through the lively Tsukiji Market.
2. Ramen
Ramen Streets: Tokyo has several areas famous for its ramen, such as Ramen Street in Tokyo Station and the Ramen Alley in Shibuya.
Regional Varieties: Explore different styles, from the rich, pork-based Tonkotsu to the soy sauce-infused Shoyu ramen.
3. Izakaya Dining
Shinjuku and Shibuya: These areas are filled with izakayas (Japanese pubs) offering a wide range of Japanese tapas-like dishes perfect for casual dining.
Local Experience: Ideal for experiencing the Japanese culture of after-work socializing over food and drinks.
Embark on a mesmerizing Shinjuku nightlife tour, exploring iconic bars with an expert English-speaking guide.
4. Yakitori (Grilled Chicken Skewers)
Yakitori Alleys: Explore places like Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku for an authentic Yakitori alley experience.
Diverse Choices: From classic chicken skewers to more adventurous parts of the chicken, there's a variety to suit all tastes.
5. Tempura
Specialty Tempura Shops: Experience lightly battered and perfectly fried seafood and vegetables delicately.
Tempura Tendon: A popular choice is a bowl of rice topped with a selection of Tempura.
6. Street Food and Snacks
Takeshita Street in Harajuku: Famous for its crepes, cotton candy, and other trendy snacks.
Asakusa: Try traditional snacks like Ningyo-yaki (small cakes filled with sweet red bean paste).
Get a taste of a variety of street foods in Asakusa.
7. Traditional Japanese Sweets
Wagashi: Explore traditional Japanese confectioneries to taste beautifully crafted sweets made from mochi, anko (red bean paste), and fruits.
8. Kaiseki Cuisine
Seasonal and Artistic: Experience the height of Japanese dining with Kaiseki, a multi-course meal emphasizing seasonal ingredients and exquisite presentation.
9. Tea and Coffee Culture
Tea Houses: Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
Third Wave Coffee Shops: Explore Tokyo's burgeoning specialty coffee scene.
Try this authentic cultural experience in Tokyo.
10. Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Specialized Restaurants: A growing number of establishments cater to vegetarian and vegan diets, offering plant-based versions of traditional Japanese dishes.
This guide offers a glimpse into Tokyo's diverse and vibrant food scene. Whether seeking a quick snack or an elaborate meal, Tokyo's culinary offerings will leave you with unforgettable taste memories.
Tokyo Specialties
Tokyo's culinary landscape is dotted with various specialties that offer a taste of traditional and contemporary Japanese cuisine. These dishes are not just meals; they reflect Tokyo's history, culture, and innovation in the culinary arts.
Here's a list of some of the most iconic and beloved specialties that you must try when in Tokyo:
1. Edomae Sushi
Origin: Rooted in the Edo period, this sushi style focuses on the freshness and simplicity of ingredients, often featuring local fresh seafood.
Experience: Savor sushi in its most authentic form, with expertly seasoned sushi rice and various fresh toppings.
Create your own sushi in this workshop!
2. Tsukemen (Dipping Ramen)
Distinct Style: Unlike traditional ramen, Tsukemen comes with noodles served separately from a rich, flavorful broth for dipping.
Popularity: Gained immense popularity in Tokyo for its unique eating style and robust flavours.
3. Monjayaki
Local Delight: Like Okonomiyaki but with a runnier batter, Monjayaki is a must-try savoury pancake, particularly popular in the Tsukishima area.
Interactive: Often cooked at the table on a hot grill, offering a fun and interactive dining experience.
4. Yakitori
Skewered Perfection: Grilled chicken skewers seasoned with salt or tare (a sweet and savoury sauce), Yakitori is a staple at Izakayas (Japanese pubs).
Variety: From chicken breast to more adventurous parts like heart and liver, there's a wide range to choose from.
Try this dish in one of the izakayas in Shinjuku.
5. Tempura
Crispy and Light: Seafood and vegetables coated in a delicate, light batter and fried to perfection.
Historical Roots: Introduced by the Portuguese in the 16th century, Tempura is now a beloved part of Japanese cuisine.
6. Tonkatsu
Breaded Delight: A breaded, deep-fried pork cutlet, often served with shredded cabbage and a sweet, tangy sauce.
Variations: Find it in various forms, from traditional plates to being stuffed in sandwiches.
7. Chanko Nabe
Sumo Stew: Originally a staple for sumo wrestlers, this hearty hot pot dish is filled with meat, fish, and vegetables.
Hearty and Filling: A comforting dish, perfect for sharing and socializing.
Enjoy Tonkatsu and Chanko-nabe, a hearty soup that's a staple in a sumo wrestler's diet.
8. Unagi (Grilled Eel)
Summer Specialty: Grilled eel glazed with a sweet soy-based sauce, often eaten for stamina during the hot summer.
Tradition: Served over rice, Unagi is a luxurious and historic dish with deep cultural significance.
9. Soba and Udon
Noodle Delights: Buckwheat soba and thick wheat udon noodles, served hot or cold with various broths and toppings.
Versatile: Enjoy these noodles in a casual setting or at specialty restaurants.
10. Matcha-Based Sweets
Traditional Flavor: Matcha (green tea powder) is widely used in Japanese confectioneries, offering a unique, earthy flavour.
Variety: Various matcha-infused treats exist, from matcha ice cream to traditional wagashi sweets.
Create, taste, and celebrate the seasons with authentic sweets and Matcha tea.
Casual Dining
Tokyo's casual dining scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city, offering many options catering to every taste and preference. Here are five of the best casual dining spots in Tokyo, each providing a unique and memorable culinary experience:
Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu
Famous For: Known as the 'Kill Bill' restaurant, Gonpachi's ambiance inspired a scene in his favorite movie.
Cuisine: Offers a variety of izakaya-style dishes, including Yakitori, soba noodles, and an array of small, shareable plates.
Location: Located in the Nishi-Azabu district, it's a great spot for experiencing Tokyo's lively izakaya culture in a unique setting.
Afuri Ramen
Specialty: Famous for its yuzu-infused ramen, a unique twist on the classic Japanese noodle soup.
Atmosphere: The modern and minimalist design of the restaurant offers a contemporary dining experience.
Multiple Locations: With several branches across Tokyo, Afuri is a convenient and delicious casual dining option.
Harajuku Gyoza Lou
Must-Try: Known for its exceptional gyoza (Japanese dumplings), both fried and steamed varieties.
Value for Money: Offers delicious and affordable gyoza in a casual and bustling atmosphere.
Location: Situated in the heart of Harajuku, it's perfect for a quick and satisfying meal while exploring the area.
Katsu Midori
Famed For: One of Tokyo's best kaiten (conveyor belt) sushi restaurants, known for its high-quality sushi at reasonable prices.
Experience: Enjoy the experience of selecting your favourite sushi dishes as they pass by on the conveyor belt.
Branches: Several locations across Tokyo, including a popular spot in the Meguro area.
Ikebukuro Parco’s Gyoza Stadium
Unique Concept: A food theme park dedicated to gyoza, offering a variety of styles from all over Japan.
Variety: A great place to sample different types of gyoza and other related dishes in one spot.
Location: Located in Ikebukuro, it's an ideal dining destination for gyoza enthusiasts and those looking to try something uniquely Tokyo.
Each casual dining spot offers fantastic food and a taste of Tokyo's dynamic food culture. They are perfect for those who enjoy quality Japanese cuisine in a more relaxed and informal setting.
Fine Dining
Tokyo's fine dining scene is a constellation of culinary excellence, showcasing innovative dishes and impeccable service. Here are five of the best fine dining restaurants in Tokyo, each offering a unique and unforgettable dining experience:
Ryugin
Cuisine: Modern Japanese Kaiseki
Highlights: Renowned for its seasonal menu that pays homage to traditional Japanese culinary techniques while incorporating modern twists.
Accolades: Consistently ranked among the best in Tokyo and has earned multiple Michelin stars.
Sukiyabashi Jiro
Cuisine: Sushi
Highlights: Operated by the legendary sushi master Jiro Ono, this restaurant is famed for its exquisite sushi courses.
Note: Top-rated and requires reservations well in advance.
Narisawa
Cuisine: Innovative Japanese
Highlights: Known for its unique approach to sustainability and nature-inspired dishes.
Recognition: Regularly featured in lists of the world's best restaurants and has received numerous awards.
Sazenka
Cuisine: Chinese infused with Japanese Ingredients
Highlights: Offers an extraordinary fusion of Chinese cuisine with Japanese ingredients, creating a unique and luxurious dining experience.
Michelin Stars: Awarded Michelin stars, a testament to its culinary excellence.
Ginza Kojyu
Cuisine: Traditional Kaiseki
Highlights: Specializes in Kaiseki cuisine that celebrates the beauty and flavours of each season.
Ambience: Offers an intimate setting focusing on meticulous presentation and service.
Themed Dining
Tokyo is renowned not just for its culinary excellence but also for its imaginative and immersive themed dining experiences. These themed restaurants offer more than just a meal; they provide a journey into various fantasy worlds, cultural themes, or even historical periods.
Here are five of the best-themed dining experiences in Tokyo, each offering a unique adventure:
Robot Restaurant
Location: Shinjuku
Theme: Futuristic robot entertainment
Experience: Robot Restaurant is known for its dazzling neon lights and robotic performances, this restaurant offers an electrifying dining experience. It's more about the spectacle than the food, with high-energy robot battles and dance performances.
Kawaii Monster Cafe
Location: Harajuku
Theme: Harajuku's kawaii (cute) culture
Experience: A whimsical and colourful café that embodies Harajuku's vibrant and playful spirit. The interior of Kawaii Monster Cafe is like a wonderland, featuring unique monster-themed décor and creatively presented dishes.
Ninja Akasaka
Location: Akasaka
Theme: Ninja and feudal Japan
Experience: A mysterious and intriguing dining experience set in a ninja village. Waitstaff dressed as ninjas perform tricks and provide entertainment, and the menu features creatively presented dishes that align with the ninja theme.
Alice in Fantasy Book
Location: Shinjuku
Theme: Alice in Wonderland
Experience: Inspired by the famous Lewis Carroll tale, this restaurant offers a dining experience in a fantasy world. The décor is whimsical, featuring elements from the story, and the menu items are creatively named after characters and themes from the book.
Zauo Fishing Restaurant
Location: Shinjuku and other locations
Theme: Fishing
Experience: Zauo Fishing Restaurant is unique in its concept of allowing you to fish for your dinner. The restaurant is designed like a boat surrounded by a moat stocked with fish. Catch your fish, and choose how you want it prepared – grilled Tempura or sushi.
Things to Be Aware of When Dining in Japan
Shoes Off in Traditional Settings
You will be expected to remove your shoes in traditional dining establishments, particularly those with tatami mat flooring. This practice shows respect for the cleanliness and sanctity of the eating space.
Handling Chopsticks Correctly
Avoid sticking your chopsticks vertically in a bowl of rice, as this resembles a funeral rite.
Avoid transferring food from your chopsticks to another person's chopsticks; this is another funeral ritual.
When not using them, place chopsticks on the chopstick holder or lay them across your bowl or plate.
Respectful Use of Condiments
When using soy sauce, don't drench your food in it, as this is considered disrespectful to the chef. For sushi, lightly dip the fish into the soy sauce, not the rice.
Only take as much wasabi or ginger as you will use to avoid waste.
Being Mindful with Sushi and Sashimi
Eat sushi and sashimi in one bite to appreciate the balance of flavours.
Eating sushi with your hands is generally acceptable, especially nigiri sushi (rice topped with fish).
Ordering and Paying
In many Japanese restaurants, you must call the server using a call button or saying "Sumimasen" (excuse me).
Pay at the counter when you leave; bringing the check to your table is uncommon.
Tipping is Not Customary
Tipping is not practiced in Japan and can be seen as rude. Exceptional service is considered a standard expectation and is not rewarded with extra payment.
Slurping Noodles
Slurping noodles is not rude; it's a sign of enjoying your meal and helps cool down the hot noodles as you eat them.
Drinking Etiquette
When drinking alcohol, it's polite to serve others before filling your glass and to wait for a toast before starting to drink.
Never pour your drink in a group; instead, pour for others, and someone will reciprocate.
Handling the Bill in Groups
The bill is often split evenly among all participants unless someone has offered to treat the group.
Quiet and Respectful Atmosphere
Japanese restaurants usually have a calm and respectful atmosphere. Loud voices and boisterous behaviour can be considered disrespectful.
Tokyo Cuisine: A Journey of Tradition, Modernity, and Cultural Narratives
Tokyo's cuisine scene is a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of tradition and modernity. Whether indulging in the simplicity of sushi rice at a local sushi bar, savouring the complexity of dishes at Michelin-starred restaurants, or experiencing themed dining, Tokyo cuisine offers a culinary journey deeply rooted in Japanese culture. As you explore, remember that each meal is nourishment and a narrative of the city's rich culinary heritage.
Unlock the secrets of Washoku in Tokyo with our hands-on 'Ichiju-Sansai' cooking class.
FAQs
What do Japanese say when entering a restaurant?
When customers walk into a restaurant, they are welcomed with the phrase "irasshaimase," which translates to "welcome, please come in."
What do you say before eating in Japanese culture?
Before their meal, Japanese individuals customarily say "itadakimasu," a gracious expression that translates to "I gratefully receive this food." This phrase serves as an expression of gratitude towards all those who contributed to the meal's preparation.
Why is Japanese cuisine famous?
Japan is renowned for its distinctive culinary style, which artfully blends unique ingredients and fragrant spices to craft remarkable dishes. Moreover, Japanese cuisine is celebrated for its visual appeal, being as aesthetically pleasing as it is delightful to the taste.
What is the cultural influence on Japanese cuisine?
Japanese cuisine has drawn significant influence from the culinary traditions of China and Korea. Given their geographical proximity in East Asia, these countries share numerous ingredients and cooking techniques.
Nonetheless, each culture has developed distinct ways of preparing these shared components, resulting in diverse and unique culinary experiences.
