Best Places To Eat At Tokyo

Discover the Best Cuisine in Tokyo

Japan is known for its delicious cuisine, and Tokyo is the perfect destination to experience it all. From sushi and ramen to tempura and yakitori, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best places to eat in Tokyo, along with some insider tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your dining experience.

🍣 Sushi

Sushi is undoubtedly one of the most popular Japanese dishes, and Tokyo is home to some of the best sushi restaurants in the world. Whether you’re looking for a high-end omakase experience or a more casual meal, there’s a sushi spot for every occasion.

Sushi Saito

Sushi Saito is widely regarded as one of the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo, if not the world. Chef Takashi Saito uses only the freshest and highest quality ingredients to create his masterpieces, and the attention to detail is truly unparalleled.

Sushi Dai

Located in the iconic Tsukiji Fish Market, Sushi Dai is a must-visit for sushi lovers. The omakase set is reasonably priced and features some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste.

Midori Sushi

If you’re looking for a more affordable sushi option, Midori Sushi is a great choice. With multiple locations across Tokyo, Midori Sushi offers delicious sushi at reasonable prices.

🍜 Ramen

Ramen is another staple of Japanese cuisine, and Tokyo has no shortage of delicious ramen shops. From rich and creamy tonkotsu ramen to spicy miso ramen, there’s a flavor for every palate.

Ichiran

Ichiran is a popular ramen chain with locations all over Tokyo. The unique ordering system allows customers to customize their ramen to their liking, and the individual booths provide a private and intimate dining experience.

Menya Musashi

Menya Musashi is known for its rich and flavorful broth, which is simmered for hours to achieve the perfect flavor. The chashu (pork belly) is also a standout dish.

Afuri Ramen

Afuri Ramen is known for its light and refreshing broth, which is made with yuzu (a Japanese citrus fruit). The toppings are also top-notch, with options like char siu pork and ajitama (marinated soft-boiled egg).

🍤 Tempura

Tempura is a type of deep-fried seafood or vegetables that originated in Japan. The batter is light and crispy, and the seafood is always fresh and delicious.

Tempura Kondo

Tempura Kondo is a Michelin-starred restaurant that specializes in tempura. The batter is made with a special blend of oils to create the perfect texture, and the seafood is sourced from the Tsukiji Fish Market.

Tempura Motoyoshi

Tempura Motoyoshi is a more affordable option for tempura, but the quality is still top-notch. The chef uses a unique blend of flour and sesame oil to create a crispy and flavorful batter.

Tempura Tsunahachi

Tempura Tsunahachi is a popular chain with locations all over Tokyo. The tempura is always fresh and delicious, and the prices are reasonable.

🍢 Yakitori

Yakitori is a type of grilled chicken skewer that is a popular dish in Japan. The chicken is seasoned with salt or a sweet and savory sauce and grilled over charcoal.

Toritake

Toritake is a cozy yakitori restaurant that has been around for over 50 years. The chicken is always fresh and flavorful, and the atmosphere is cozy and intimate.

Yakitori Daikichi

Yakitori Daikichi is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The chicken is grilled to perfection, and there are a variety of sauces and seasonings to choose from.

Yakitori Imai

Yakitori Imai is a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves some of the best yakitori in Tokyo. The chef uses only the highest quality ingredients and grills the chicken to perfection.

🥘 Other Must-Try Dishes

While sushi, ramen, tempura, and yakitori are some of the most popular dishes in Tokyo, there are plenty of other must-try dishes to discover.

Tonkatsu at Maisen

Tonkatsu is a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet that is a popular comfort food in Japan. Maisen is a popular tonkatsu chain that serves some of the best in Tokyo.

Soba at Sarashina Horii

Soba is a type of Japanese noodle made from buckwheat flour. Sarashina Horii is a famous soba restaurant that has been around since the Edo period.

Unagi at Nodaiwa

Unagi, or freshwater eel, is a popular dish in Japan. Nodaiwa is a famous unagi restaurant that has been around for over 200 years.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Tokyo for foodies?

The best time to visit Tokyo for foodies is between March and May, and September and November. During these months, the weather is mild and there are plenty of seasonal ingredients available.

2. How much should I budget for food in Tokyo?

While Tokyo can be an expensive city, there are plenty of affordable dining options available. On average, you can expect to spend anywhere from 1,000 to 5,000 yen per meal, depending on the type of restaurant.

3. Do I need to tip in Tokyo restaurants?

No, it is not customary to tip in Tokyo restaurants. The service charge is already included in the price of the meal.

4. Is it safe to eat street food in Tokyo?

Yes, it is generally safe to eat street food in Tokyo. The city is known for its high food safety standards, and vendors are required to follow strict hygiene regulations.

5. What is the difference between sushi and sashimi?

Sushi is a dish that consists of vinegared rice topped with various ingredients, including raw fish. Sashimi, on the other hand, is simply slices of raw fish served on their own.

6. Can I request vegetarian or vegan options at Tokyo restaurants?

Yes, many Tokyo restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan options. However, it’s a good idea to do your research beforehand to find restaurants that cater to your dietary needs.

7. Is it rude to use my phone in a Tokyo restaurant?

While it’s not necessarily rude to use your phone in a Tokyo restaurant, it’s always best to be respectful of the local customs. Many restaurants have signs asking patrons not to use their phones, so it’s a good idea to check beforehand.

8. What is the best way to order at a Tokyo restaurant if I don’t speak Japanese?

Many Tokyo restaurants have English menus available, especially in tourist areas. If the restaurant doesn’t have an English menu, it’s always helpful to learn a few basic Japanese phrases or bring a translation app with you.

9. Should I make reservations at Tokyo restaurants?

It’s always a good idea to make reservations at Tokyo restaurants, especially if you’re planning on dining at a high-end or popular spot. Many restaurants require reservations, and it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

10. Is it rude to ask for extra wasabi or soy sauce in a Tokyo restaurant?

No, it’s not rude to ask for extra wasabi or soy sauce in a Tokyo restaurant. However, it’s always best to be mindful of the local customs and not overdo it with the condiments.

11. What is the dress code for Tokyo restaurants?

The dress code for Tokyo restaurants varies depending on the type of restaurant. In general, casual attire is acceptable at most restaurants, but it’s always best to check beforehand.

12. Can I bring my own alcohol to a Tokyo restaurant?

No, it’s not customary to bring your own alcohol to Tokyo restaurants. In Japan, it’s common to order drinks from the restaurant’s menu.

13. What should I do if I have a food allergy or dietary restriction?

It’s always best to let the restaurant know about any food allergies or dietary restrictions when you make your reservation. Many restaurants are able to accommodate these needs, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Conclusion