Discover the Best Food in Shinjuku

Shinjuku is a bustling district in Tokyo known for its lively streets, nightlife, and of course, its food. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to begin your culinary adventure. From traditional Japanese cuisine to trendy cafes, Shinjuku offers an array of dining options that cater to every palate. In this article, we’ll be exploring some of the best food in Shinjuku that you won’t want to miss.

🍣 Sushi

Sushi is a staple in Japanese cuisine, and Shinjuku is home to some of the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo. One of our top picks is Sushi Iwa. Located in a quiet alley, this intimate restaurant offers a range of sushi delicacies made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Be sure to try their signature dish, the abalone sushi.

🍜 Ramen

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a bowl of steaming hot ramen. Menya Musashi is a popular ramen chain in Shinjuku that serves up delicious bowls of noodles in rich, flavorful broth. Their signature dish, the black tonkotsu, features a unique black garlic oil that adds depth to the broth.

🍳 Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake made with a variety of ingredients, including cabbage, meat, seafood, and vegetables. At Kiji, you can enjoy this classic Japanese dish cooked right at your table on a hot griddle. Their signature dish features thick slices of pork belly and squid.

🍛 Curry Rice

Japanese curry rice is a hearty dish that is perfect for chilly days. At Shinjuku Saboten, you can try their signature dish, the tonkatsu curry rice, which features crispy fried pork cutlet smothered in rich, spicy curry sauce.

🍺 Izakaya

Izakayas are Japanese pubs that serve a variety of small dishes that are perfect for sharing. At Torikizoku, you can enjoy grilled skewers of chicken, vegetables, and seafood, as well as other izakaya favorites like edamame and takoyaki.

🍰 Desserts

Shinjuku is also home to some of the best dessert cafes in Tokyo. At Sweets Paradise, you can indulge in an all-you-can-eat dessert buffet featuring a variety of cakes, pastries, and ice cream. For something more traditional, try the matcha parfait at Suzukien.

Introduction

Shinjuku is a popular district in Tokyo known for its bustling streets, shopping, and entertainment. However, what sets Shinjuku apart is its food scene. With so many options available, it can be hard to decide where to begin your culinary adventure. In this article, we’ll be exploring some of the best food in Shinjuku that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, ramen, or something sweet, Shinjuku has something to offer everyone.

Location and Getting Around

Shinjuku is located in the heart of Tokyo and is easily accessible by train. The JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, and Toei Subway Shinjuku Line all stop at Shinjuku Station, making it a convenient hub for exploring the district. Once you arrive in Shinjuku, the best way to get around is on foot. The district is relatively compact and many of the best restaurants are located within walking distance of each other.

When to Visit

Shinjuku is a popular destination for tourists year-round, but the best time to visit for foodies is during the autumn months. This is when many of the restaurants feature seasonal ingredients in their dishes, such as chestnuts and mushrooms. Be sure to also check out the Shinjuku Food Stadium, a five-floor food court that features some of the best stalls in the district.

How to Order

Many restaurants in Shinjuku have an English menu available, but it’s always helpful to brush up on some basic Japanese phrases before your trip. If you’re unsure of what to order, don’t be afraid to ask the waiter for recommendations. In Japan, it’s also common to order from a vending machine before being seated at the restaurant. Simply insert your money, select the dish you want, and take your ticket to the counter to be seated.

Etiquette

When dining in Japan, there are a few important etiquette rules to keep in mind. First, it’s considered rude to talk on your phone or use other electronic devices at the table. Also, it’s common to say “itadakimasu” before eating, which is a way of expressing gratitude for the food. Finally, be sure to remove your shoes before entering certain restaurants or private dining rooms.

Price Range

The price range for dining in Shinjuku can vary, depending on the restaurant and the type of cuisine. Generally, street food and casual dining options are more affordable, while high-end restaurants can be quite expensive. However, even the most expensive restaurants in Shinjuku are still an excellent value for the quality of the food and the experience.

Reservations

Some of the most popular restaurants in Shinjuku require reservations, especially during peak dining hours. It’s always a good idea to make a reservation in advance to ensure that you get a table at your desired restaurant. Many restaurants have an online reservation system, or you can ask your hotel concierge to make a reservation for you.

What Makes Shinjuku Food Special?

Shinjuku’s food scene is unique because it offers a blend of traditional Japanese cuisine and modern, innovative dishes. Here, you’ll find everything from classic sushi and ramen to trendy cafes serving up Instagram-worthy desserts. Shinjuku is also known for its izakayas, which are Japanese pubs that serve a variety of small dishes that are perfect for sharing.

Traditional Japanese Cuisine

Shinjuku is home to many restaurants that serve traditional Japanese cuisine, such as sushi, ramen, and okonomiyaki. These dishes are made using fresh, seasonal ingredients and are prepared with traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations. Dining at a traditional Japanese restaurant is a great way to experience the culture and flavors of Japan.

Trendy Cafes

Shinjuku is also home to many trendy cafes that offer a modern twist on traditional Japanese desserts. From matcha parfaits to fluffy Japanese pancakes, these cafes serve up dishes that are both delicious and Instagram-worthy. Many of these cafes also offer a cozy atmosphere that makes them a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon tea.

Izakayas

Izakayas are a unique dining experience that you won’t find outside of Japan. These Japanese pubs serve a variety of small dishes that are perfect for sharing with friends. At an izakaya, you can enjoy grilled skewers of meat and vegetables, fried snacks, and other izakaya favorites like edamame and takoyaki. Izakayas are also a great spot to try different types of sake, a traditional Japanese rice wine.

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Shinjuku for food?

The best time to visit Shinjuku for food is during the autumn months, when many restaurants feature seasonal ingredients in their dishes. Be sure to also check out the Shinjuku Food Stadium, a five-floor food court that features some of the best stalls in the district.

What is the most popular food in Shinjuku?

Sushi and ramen are two of the most popular foods in Shinjuku, but the district offers a wide range of dining options that cater to every palate.

Is it necessary to speak Japanese to dine in Shinjuku?

Many restaurants in Shinjuku have an English menu available, but it’s always helpful to brush up on some basic Japanese phrases before your trip. If you’re unsure of what to order, don’t be afraid to ask the waiter for recommendations.

What is the price range for dining in Shinjuku?

The price range for dining in Shinjuku can vary, depending on the restaurant and the type of cuisine. Generally, street food and casual dining options are more affordable, while high-end restaurants can be quite expensive. However, even the most expensive restaurants in Shinjuku are still an excellent value for the quality of the food and the experience.

Do I need to make reservations for restaurants in Shinjuku?

Some of the most popular restaurants in Shinjuku require reservations, especially during peak dining hours. It’s always a good idea to make a reservation in advance to ensure that you get a table at your desired restaurant. Many restaurants have an online reservation system, or you can ask your hotel concierge to make a reservation for you.

Conclusion

Shinjuku is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of dining options that cater to every palate. From traditional Japanese