Best Food Cities Japan: A Culinary Adventure

Japan is known for its unique and delicious cuisine, and there are countless cities across the country where food lovers can indulge in a culinary adventure. Whether you’re looking for traditional dishes or innovative fusion cuisine, Japan has something to offer everyone. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best food cities in Japan, from Tokyo to Kyoto and beyond.

Tokyo 🍣

If you’re a lover of sushi, then Tokyo is a must-visit destination. With more Michelin-starred sushi restaurants than any other city in the world, Tokyo is the ultimate destination for sushi lovers. From traditional and authentic sushi joints to innovative and modern sushi restaurants, Tokyo has it all. Some of the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo include Sukiyabashi Jiro, Sushi Saito, and Sushi Yoshitake.

Sukiyabashi Jiro

Sukiyabashi Jiro is perhaps the most famous sushi restaurant in the world. Located in Ginza, the restaurant has been run by Jiro Ono and his family for over 50 years. The restaurant has been awarded three Michelin stars and has served some of the world’s most famous figures, including former US President Barack Obama.

Sushi Saito

Sushi Saito is another top-ranked sushi restaurant in Tokyo, with three Michelin stars. Located in the Akasaka district, the restaurant has only eight seats and serves a variety of traditional sushi dishes.

Sushi Yoshitake

Sushi Yoshitake is a small, intimate restaurant in Ginza that has been awarded three Michelin stars. Chef Masahiro Yoshitake serves a variety of traditional and innovative sushi dishes, using the freshest ingredients available.

Kyoto 🍜

Kyoto is another must-visit destination for food lovers in Japan. Known for its traditional cuisine and historic temples, Kyoto is home to some of the best noodle dishes in the country, including ramen and udon. Some of the top noodle restaurants in Kyoto include Gogyo Ramen, Menbakaichidai, and Yamamoto Menzo.

Gogyo Ramen

Gogyo Ramen is a popular ramen restaurant in Kyoto that is known for its burnt miso ramen. The restaurant has a cozy and casual atmosphere and serves a variety of other dishes, including gyoza and fried chicken.

Menbakaichidai

Menbakaichidai is another popular ramen restaurant in Kyoto that is known for its fire ramen. The dish is made by pouring hot oil over the ramen, creating a fiery spectacle that is not to be missed.

Yamamoto Menzo

Yamamoto Menzo is a udon restaurant in Kyoto that has been serving delicious noodle dishes for over 90 years. The restaurant is located in the Gion district and serves a variety of different udon dishes, including hot and cold options.

Osaka 🍱

Osaka is known as the Kitchen of Japan, and for good reason. The city is home to some of the best street food in the country, as well as a variety of top-rated restaurants. Some of the must-try foods in Osaka include takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu. Some of the top restaurants in Osaka include Kani Doraku, Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M, and Kappo Kuromon.

Kani Doraku

Kani Doraku is a famous seafood restaurant in Osaka that is known for its crab dishes. The restaurant has been around since 1960 and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M

Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M is a popular steakhouse in Osaka that serves high-quality Kobe beef. The restaurant has a modern and stylish atmosphere and is a great place to indulge in some delicious meat dishes.

Kappo Kuromon

Kappo Kuromon is a small, intimate restaurant in Osaka that serves a variety of traditional Japanese dishes. The restaurant is known for its omakase courses, which allow guests to sample a variety of different dishes.

Sapporo 🍺

Sapporo is the largest city in Hokkaido and is known for its delicious seafood and beer. The city is home to some of the best seafood markets in Japan, as well as a variety of top-rated restaurants. Some of the must-try foods in Sapporo include crab, salmon roe, and miso ramen. Some of the top restaurants in Sapporo include Kani Honke, Sapporo Beer Garden, and Sushizen.

Kani Honke

Kani Honke is a famous crab restaurant in Sapporo that has been serving delicious crab dishes for over 100 years. The restaurant is located in the Susukino district and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

Sapporo Beer Garden

Sapporo Beer Garden is a popular restaurant and beer hall in Sapporo that serves a variety of dishes, including grilled lamb and crab. The restaurant is located in the historic Sapporo Beer Museum and is a great place to sample some of the city’s famous beer.

Sushizen

Sushizen is a top-rated sushi restaurant in Sapporo that serves a variety of traditional and innovative sushi dishes. The restaurant is known for its fresh ingredients and friendly atmosphere.

Hiroshima 🍔

Hiroshima is known for its unique cuisine, including the famous Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. This dish is made with layers of noodles, cabbage, meat, and other ingredients, all cooked on a griddle and served with a variety of sauces and toppings. Some of the top restaurants in Hiroshima include Okonomi-mura, Hassei, and Nagataya.

Okonomi-mura

Okonomi-mura is a famous food hall in Hiroshima that is dedicated to okonomiyaki. The hall is home to over 20 different vendors, each serving their own unique take on the dish.

Hassei

Hassei is a popular okonomiyaki restaurant in Hiroshima that is known for its thick and hearty pancakes. The restaurant has been around since 1953 and is a must-visit destination for food lovers in the city.

Nagataya

Nagataya is a small, family-run restaurant in Hiroshima that serves a variety of different dishes, including okonomiyaki and udon. The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere and is a great place to try some local cuisine.

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Japan for food?

The best time to visit Japan for food is during the autumn months, from September to November. This is when many of the country’s best ingredients are in season, including mushrooms, chestnuts, and persimmons.

Is it safe to eat street food in Japan?

Yes, it is generally safe to eat street food in Japan. The country has strict food safety regulations, and vendors must follow strict guidelines to ensure that their food is safe and clean.

What are some of the most common ingredients used in Japanese cuisine?

Some of the most common ingredients used in Japanese cuisine include rice, soy sauce, miso, tofu, seaweed, and fish.

What is the difference between sushi and sashimi?

Sushi is a dish that is made with vinegared rice, while sashimi is a dish that consists of thinly sliced raw fish or meat.

What is the most expensive sushi in Japan?

The most expensive sushi in Japan is the toro (fatty tuna) at Sukiyabashi Jiro, which costs around 30,000 yen (approximately $300 USD) for a single piece.

What is the best way to order food in Japan if you don’t speak Japanese?

The best way to order food in Japan if you don’t speak Japanese is to use a translation app or to point to pictures on the menu.

What is the most popular drink in Japan?

The most popular drink in Japan is green tea, which is consumed throughout the day and is often served with meals.

What is the best way to eat ramen?

The best way to eat ramen is to first taste the broth, then mix in the noodles and other ingredients and slurp loudly while eating.

What is the most popular street food in Osaka?

The most popular street food in Osaka is takoyaki, which are small, fried balls of batter filled with pieces of octopus.

What is the best way to eat okonomiyaki?

The best way to eat okonomiyaki is to cut