Discovering the Best Lunch In Yokohama Chinatown

Are you in search of an authentic Chinese cuisine experience in Japan? Look no further than Yokohama Chinatown – a vibrant district filled with colorful streets, traditional architecture, and mouth-watering food. From steaming dim sum to savory noodles, our guide to the best lunch in Yokohama Chinatown has got you covered.

🥢 Dim Sum Delights

Dim sum lovers, rejoice! Yokohama Chinatown is home to some of the best steamed and fried dumplings in the country. One popular spot for dim sum is Manchinro, where you can try classics like siu mai and har gow. For a more modern twist, head to Soyo, which serves up fusion dim sum dishes like shrimp and cheese dumplings.

🍤 Siu Mai

Siu mai, also known as pork dumplings, are a staple dish in dim sum cuisine. They are typically made with ground pork, shrimp, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots, and are wrapped in a thin layer of dough. Siu mai can be steamed or fried, and are often served with soy sauce or chili oil.

🥟 Har Gow

Har gow, or shrimp dumplings, are another popular dim sum dish. They are made with a translucent wrapper and are filled with a mixture of shrimp, bamboo shoots, and other seasonings. Har gow are steamed to perfection, and are often served as a light and refreshing appetizer.

🍜 Noodle Nirvana

From slurp-worthy ramen to fragrant udon, Yokohama Chinatown has a variety of noodle shops to satisfy your cravings. For a hearty bowl of ramen, head to Ryu Shanghai Honten, which offers a rich and flavorful miso-based broth. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try Hanamaruken, which specializes in tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen.

🍜 Ramen

Ramen is a Japanese staple, and comes in many different varieties. It typically consists of wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth, and is topped with a variety of ingredients like pork, egg, and vegetables. Ramen is a comforting and filling meal, perfect for a chilly day.

🍲 Udon

Udon is another type of Japanese noodle, and is thicker and chewier than ramen. It is typically served in a hot soup broth, and can be topped with ingredients like tempura, tofu, or seafood. Udon is known for its hearty and comforting flavor, and is a popular choice during the colder months.

🍲 Comforting Congee

Congee, also known as rice porridge, is a popular breakfast dish in many Asian countries. In Yokohama Chinatown, you can find congee served throughout the day, often as a savory lunch option. For a classic and comforting bowl of congee, head to Tien Ma’s, which offers options like pork and century egg congee.

🥚 Century Egg

Century eggs, also known as preserved eggs, are a Chinese delicacy made by preserving duck, chicken, or quail eggs in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, and rice straw. The process can take several weeks or even months, and results in a creamy and pungent egg with a unique flavor and texture. Century egg is often served in congee or as a side dish.

🍤 Seafood Sensations

As a port city, Yokohama is known for its fresh seafood, and the same goes for its Chinatown district. For a seafood feast, check out Kurofune, which offers a variety of grilled and steamed dishes like crab, shrimp, and squid. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the sea cucumber – a prized delicacy in Chinese cuisine.

🦑 Squid

Squid is a versatile and flavorful seafood that is a popular ingredient in many Chinese dishes. It can be grilled, fried, or served in a variety of sauces, and pairs well with rice or noodles. Squid is also a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

🌊 Sea Cucumber

Sea cucumber is a type of marine animal that is prized for its gelatinous texture and unique flavor. It is a delicacy in many Asian countries, and is often served as a high-end dish in Chinese cuisine. Sea cucumber is believed to have various health benefits, such as improving skin and joint health.

🍡 Sweet Treats

No meal is complete without dessert, and in Yokohama Chinatown, there are plenty of sweet options to choose from. For a traditional Chinese dessert, try the egg tart at Kawai Zakkaten. If you’re in the mood for something more modern, check out Lohas Cafe, which serves up colorful and Instagram-worthy treats like matcha parfaits and fruit sandwiches.

🍮 Egg Tart

Egg tarts are a popular pastry in many Chinese communities, and are made with a flaky pastry crust filled with a sweet and creamy egg custard. They can be served warm or cold, and are often dusted with powdered sugar or cinnamon.

🍵 Matcha Parfait

Matcha is a type of green tea that is finely ground into a powder, and is known for its earthy and bitter flavor. Matcha parfaits are a popular dessert in Japan, and typically consist of layers of matcha-flavored ice cream, whipped cream, and sweet red bean paste. They are often topped with fresh fruit and mochi.

FAQ

1. What is Yokohama Chinatown?

Yokohama Chinatown is a district in Yokohama, Japan that is home to a large Chinese community and a variety of Chinese restaurants and shops.

2. What kind of food can I find in Yokohama Chinatown?

You can find a variety of Chinese cuisine in Yokohama Chinatown, including dim sum, noodles, seafood, and desserts.

3. What is congee?

Congee is a type of rice porridge that is popular in many Asian countries. It is often served for breakfast or as a savory lunch option.

4. What is sea cucumber?

Sea cucumber is a type of marine animal that is often used in Chinese cuisine. It is prized for its unique texture and flavor.

5. What kind of noodles can I find in Yokohama Chinatown?

You can find a variety of noodles in Yokohama Chinatown, including ramen, udon, and soba.

6. What is a century egg?

A century egg, also known as a preserved egg, is a Chinese delicacy made by preserving duck, chicken, or quail eggs in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, and rice straw.

7. What is the best time to visit Yokohama Chinatown?

Yokohama Chinatown can be busy on weekends and holidays, so it is recommended to visit during weekdays if possible.

8. What is the most popular dish in Yokohama Chinatown?

There are many popular dishes in Yokohama Chinatown, but some of the most popular include siu mai, ramen, and egg tarts.

9. Are there any vegetarian options in Yokohama Chinatown?

Yes, there are vegetarian options available in Yokohama Chinatown. Many noodle shops offer vegetarian ramen or udon, and there are also vegetarian dim sum options.

10. How do I get to Yokohama Chinatown?

Yokohama Chinatown is easily accessible by train or bus. The closest station is Motomachi-Chukagai Station on the Minato Mirai Line.

11. Can I take photos in Yokohama Chinatown?

Yes, you can take photos in Yokohama Chinatown, but be respectful of others and be mindful of your surroundings.

12. Is it expensive to eat in Yokohama Chinatown?

It depends on where you eat and what you order, but in general, prices in Yokohama Chinatown are reasonable compared to other major cities.

13. What should I wear when visiting Yokohama Chinatown?

There is no dress code for visiting Yokohama Chinatown, but it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as there is a lot of walking involved.

Conclusion

Yokohama Chinatown is a must-visit destination for foodies and culture enthusiasts alike. With a wide variety of Chinese cuisine options to choose from, you’re sure to find something that satisfies your cravings. Don’t forget to save room for dessert, and be sure to try out some of the unique