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$12.99 (as of November 22, 2024 15:26 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo and want to experience the best of its culinary scene, then this article is for you. Discovering the hidden gems of Tokyo’s restaurant scene can be an adventure in itself, and we’re here to guide you in finding the most delightful and authentic dining experiences the city has to offer. From small, family-run ramen shops tucked away in quiet alleyways to elegant sushi bars known only to locals, these restaurants will introduce you to the true essence of Japanese cuisine and leave you craving for more. So get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey and explore the vibrant culinary delights of Tokyo like a seasoned foodie.
Traditional Japanese Cuisine
Sukiyabashi Jiro
If you’re looking for the ultimate sushi experience in Tokyo, look no further than Sukiyabashi Jiro. This legendary restaurant, located in the upscale Ginza district, is helmed by the world-renowned sushi master Jiro Ono. With only 10 seats at the counter, you’re in for an intimate and unforgettable dining experience. The sushi here is made with the utmost care and precision, using the highest quality ingredients sourced from Tokyo’s famous Tsukiji fish market.
Ginza Kyubey
Another top choice for traditional Japanese cuisine in Tokyo is Ginza Kyubey. This historic restaurant has been serving up exquisite sushi since 1935 and has earned a reputation for its attention to detail and impeccable craftsmanship. The chefs at Ginza Kyubey are masters in their craft, with years of experience and a deep understanding of flavors. The omakase course is highly recommended, allowing the chef to curate a personalized dining experience just for you.
Kagari Ramen
For those looking for a taste of Tokyo’s famous ramen, Kagari Ramen is a must-visit. Located in the trendy neighborhood of Ginza, Kagari Ramen is known for its rich and flavorful broth, made from scratch daily using only the freshest ingredients. The noodles are perfectly cooked and the toppings are carefully selected to complement the broth. Be prepared to wait in line, as this small and cozy ramen shop is always bustling with locals and tourists alike.
Sushi Restaurants
Sushi Saito
Sushi Saito is considered one of the best sushi restaurants in not just Tokyo, but the entire world. With only seven seats available, securing a reservation here is no easy feat, but it’s definitely worth the effort. Chef Saito is a master of his craft, and each piece of sushi is meticulously prepared and served with precision. The intimate setting allows for a unique dining experience where you can watch the master at work up close.
Sushi Dai
Located in the Tsukiji Fish Market, Sushi Dai is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. The restaurant opens early in the morning to serve up the freshest catch of the day. Be prepared to wait in line for hours, as the demand for their sushi is incredibly high. Once you finally get a seat, you’ll be treated to an unforgettable sushi feast that will leave your taste buds tingling with delight.
Manten Sushi
Tucked away in the residential neighborhood of Omotesando, Manten Sushi offers a more intimate and relaxed sushi dining experience. The chef, Mr. Manten, takes pride in sourcing the finest ingredients from both Japan and abroad, ensuring that each piece of sushi is of the highest quality. The counter seating allows you to have a front-row view of the chef’s skills, as he meticulously prepares each sushi with precision and expertise.
Ramen Shops
Ichiran Ramen
Known for its unique dining experience, Ichiran Ramen offers individual booths where you can enjoy your bowl of ramen in peace. This allows you to fully focus on the flavors and textures of the noodles and broth without any distractions. The ramen itself is flavorful and rich, with a tonkotsu-based broth that is simmered for hours to achieve the perfect depth of flavor.
Tsuta
Tsuta gained international fame when it became the first ramen shop to receive a Michelin star. The shop is known for its truffle-infused shoyu ramen, which combines the rich umami flavors of soy sauce with the aromatic earthiness of truffles. The noodles are cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of chewiness, and the toppings are carefully chosen to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Ippudo
Ippudo is a well-known ramen chain that has locations all over the world, but the original shop in Tokyo is where it all began. The signature dish at Ippudo is their tonkotsu ramen, characterized by its creamy and savory pork broth. The noodles are thin and straight, allowing them to soak up the flavors of the broth, and the toppings include chashu (braised pork), wood ear mushrooms, and green onions.
Yakitori Grills
Torishiki
For a truly authentic yakitori experience, head to Torishiki in Meguro. This cozy restaurant is known for its perfectly grilled skewers of chicken and seasonal vegetables. The chef grills each skewer over charcoal, resulting in a smoky and flavorful delight. The menu at Torishiki is extensive, offering a wide variety of cuts and preparations, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Torigin
Torigin is a classic yakitori restaurant located in the heart of Ginza. Established in 1924, this timeless establishment has been serving up delicious grilled skewers for nearly a century. The chicken used at Torigin is sourced from a single farm, ensuring the highest quality and consistency. The menu features a range of flavorful options, from the traditional chicken skewers to more adventurous choices like chicken liver and gizzard.
Yakitori Alley
If you’re looking for a vibrant and lively atmosphere, Yakitori Alley is the place to go. Located in the Shinjuku district, this narrow alleyway is lined with small yakitori stalls, each with its own unique specialty. Here, you can sample a variety of grilled skewers while sipping on ice-cold beer or sake. It’s a bustling and energetic spot that captures the essence of Tokyo’s nightlife.
Tempura Houses
Tenya
Tenya is a popular tempura chain that offers high-quality tempura at an affordable price. With locations all over Tokyo, you’re never too far away from a delicious tempura meal. The batter at Tenya is light and crispy, and the ingredients are always fresh. From shrimp to vegetables, there’s a wide variety of tempura options to choose from, allowing you to create your own customized meal.
Shinjuku Tsunahachi
Shinjuku Tsunahachi is a renowned tempura restaurant in Tokyo that has been perfecting the art of tempura since 1923. The chefs at Shinjuku Tsunahachi use only the finest ingredients and carefully control the temperature of the oil to achieve the perfect balance of crispiness and flavor. The tempura here is truly a work of art, with each piece delicately coated and fried to perfection.
Tempura Kondo
For an upscale dining experience, make a reservation at Tempura Kondo in Ginza. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined take on tempura, using the freshest seasonal ingredients. The batter is light and airy, and the frying technique is precise, resulting in tempura that is both delicate and flavorful. The dining room at Tempura Kondo is elegant and intimate, providing the perfect setting for a special occasion.
Unagi Restaurants
Nodaiwa
Nodaiwa is a well-established unagi (eel) restaurant that has been serving up delicious grilled eel for over 200 years. The eel at Nodaiwa is sourced from Lake Hamana, known for producing some of the finest eel in Japan. The eel is first grilled over charcoal to give it a smoky flavor, and then simmered in a special sauce, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. The restaurant itself is housed in a traditional Japanese building, adding to the overall charm and ambiance.
Obana
Obana is a hidden gem located in the historic neighborhood of Asakusa. This small and unassuming restaurant is known for its exceptional unagi, which is grilled to perfection over charcoal. The eel is prepared with care and precision, resulting in a dish that is succulent and flavorful. The cozy and intimate setting of Obana adds to the overall dining experience, making it a must-visit for unagi lovers.
Michishirube
For a unique twist on traditional unagi, head to Michishirube in Tsukiji. This modern and stylish restaurant offers a creative take on the classic dish, using innovative cooking techniques and unexpected flavor combinations. The eel here is grilled to perfection, and the accompanying sauces and toppings add a delightful twist to the dish. The presentation at Michishirube is also a feast for the eyes, making the dining experience truly memorable.
Izakayas
Uoshin
Izakayas are a staple of Japanese dining culture, and Uoshin is one of the best in Tokyo. This lively izakaya offers a wide variety of small plates and drinks, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring. The menu at Uoshin features fresh seafood, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables, all prepared with expert craftsmanship. The friendly and lively atmosphere adds to the overall experience, making Uoshin a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Yamariki
Yamariki is a hidden gem tucked away in a quiet corner of Shitamachi, Tokyo’s old downtown area. This cozy izakaya is known for its delicious yakitori and home-style dishes, which are made using traditional cooking techniques passed down through generations. The menu at Yamariki features a variety of dishes, from skewers of grilled chicken to comforting stews and hotpots. The warm and welcoming atmosphere of Yamariki makes it a perfect spot to experience the charm of old Tokyo.
Fukumori
Fukumori is an izakaya that focuses on serving seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The menu at Fukumori changes regularly to reflect the freshest produce available, ensuring that every dish is bursting with flavor. The izakaya itself has a cozy and rustic vibe, with wooden interiors and warm lighting. The staff at Fukumori are knowledgeable and friendly, always ready to recommend the perfect dish to pair with your drink of choice.
Vegan and Vegetarian Eateries
T’s Tantan
T’s Tantan is a vegan and vegetarian-friendly eatery that specializes in plant-based ramen. Located in Tokyo Station, it offers a convenient stop for travelers looking for a satisfying and cruelty-free meal. The ramen at T’s Tantan is flavorful and rich, with a variety of toppings and spices to choose from. The menu also includes other vegan options such as curry, dumplings, and bento boxes, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Brown Rice by Necco
For health-conscious travelers, Brown Rice by Necco is the perfect spot to enjoy a nutritious and wholesome meal. This vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant focuses on using organic and locally sourced ingredients to create delicious and nourishing dishes. From colorful grain bowls to creative vegetable-based dishes, the menu at Brown Rice by Necco offers a wide variety of options to suit any dietary preference.
Pure Cafe
Pure Cafe is a cozy and charming cafe that caters to both vegan and vegetarian diners. Located in the trendy neighborhood of Aoyama, it offers a welcome respite from the bustling city streets. The menu at Pure Cafe features a range of vegan and vegetarian options, from hearty salads to flavorful sandwiches. The cafe also offers a selection of smoothies, juices, and desserts made with natural ingredients, making it the perfect spot for a healthy and refreshing meal.
Soba Noodle Restaurants
Yabu Soba
Yabu Soba is a traditional soba noodle restaurant located in the heart of Tokyo. The restaurant has been serving up handmade soba noodles for over a century, using a unique blend of buckwheat and wheat flour. The noodles at Yabu Soba are thin and delicate, with a slightly nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the accompanying dipping sauce. The simple and elegant setting of Yabu Soba adds to the overall dining experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the artistry of soba making.
Ginza Maruguchi Soba
Ginza Maruguchi Soba is a hidden gem tucked away in the upscale neighborhood of Ginza. This small and cozy soba restaurant is known for its outstanding quality and attention to detail. The soba noodles here are made in-house using traditional methods, resulting in a chewy and flavorful experience. The menu at Ginza Maruguchi Soba also includes a variety of tempura and side dishes, allowing you to enjoy a complete meal.
Narutomi
For soba lovers looking for a unique twist, Narutomi is the place to go. This innovative soba restaurant offers a range of creative and flavorful toppings to accompany their delicious noodles. From tempura to sashimi, each topping is carefully chosen to complement the soba and enhance the overall taste experience. The cozy and rustic ambiance of Narutomi adds to the charm, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Kaiseki Cuisine
Ryugin
Ryugin is a three-Michelin-starred restaurant that offers an exquisite kaiseki dining experience. Helmed by chef Seiji Yamamoto, Ryugin is known for its innovative and artistic approach to Japanese cuisine. The multi-course menu at Ryugin features a harmony of flavors and textures, with each dish thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented. The ingredients used at Ryugin are sourced from all over Japan, ensuring the highest quality and freshness.
Ishikawa
Ishikawa is a kaiseki restaurant located in Kagurazaka, a historic neighborhood known for its traditional charm. The restaurant focuses on using seasonal and local ingredients to create dishes that celebrate the flavors of each season. The kaiseki menu at Ishikawa is a true feast for the senses, with beautifully presented dishes that showcase the chef’s expertise and creativity. The intimate and serene atmosphere of Ishikawa adds to the overall dining experience, making it a perfect spot for a special occasion.
Ginza Kojyu
Ginza Kojyu is a Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant that offers a refined and elegant dining experience. The chef at Ginza Kojyu creates dishes that highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients, allowing you to fully appreciate the simplicity and quality of each dish. The menu changes with the seasons, ensuring that you can always enjoy the freshest and most delicious ingredients. The dining room at Ginza Kojyu is intimate and serene, providing the perfect setting for a truly memorable meal.
Tokyo is a city that boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, with something to suit every palate. Whether you’re a sushi lover, a ramen aficionado, or a fan of traditional Japanese cuisine, these hidden gems offer an authentic and unforgettable dining experience. From the world-renowned Sukiyabashi Jiro to the cozy neighborhood izakayas, each restaurant on this list is guaranteed to leave you with a lasting impression. So go ahead and embark on a culinary adventure in Tokyo, and let your taste buds guide you through the rich and savory flavors of traditional Japanese cuisine.
