Best Places To Eat In Tokyo For Tourists

Tokyo is a city of great food, and there are countless places for tourists to eat. From street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, the dining scene in Tokyo can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the city’s culinary landscape, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of the best places to eat in Tokyo for tourists.

🍣 Sushi

Sushi Saito

Saito is widely considered to be the best sushi restaurant in Tokyo, if not in the world. Saito serves traditional Edomae sushi, which is made with fish caught in Tokyo Bay. The restaurant only has ten seats, so reservations are required.

Tsukiji Fish Market

For a more casual sushi experience, head to the Tsukiji Fish Market. There are dozens of sushi restaurants in the market, and the fish is as fresh as it gets.

🍜 Ramen

Ichiran

Ichiran is known for its tonkotsu ramen, which is made with pork bones. The broth is rich and creamy, and the noodles are perfectly chewy. Ichiran has locations all over Tokyo, but the Shibuya location is the most convenient for tourists.

Afuri

Afuri is known for its yuzu shio ramen, which has a light and refreshing broth. The restaurant also has a unique vending machine ordering system, which adds to the experience.

🍲 Izakaya

Torikizoku

Torikizoku is a popular chain of izakayas that specializes in yakitori, or grilled chicken skewers. The prices are very reasonable, and the atmosphere is lively.

Gonpachi

Gonpachi is a stylish izakaya that was the inspiration for the restaurant in Kill Bill. The menu is extensive, and the decor is traditional Japanese.

🍛 Curry

Coco Ichibanya

Coco Ichibanya is a chain of curry restaurants that is beloved by locals and tourists alike. The menu has a wide variety of curries, from mild to spicy, and the prices are very reasonable.

Narisawa

Narisawa is a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves Japanese-inspired French cuisine. The signature dish is the forest floor, which is a dessert that looks like a forest and is made with all-natural ingredients.

🍙 Convenience Stores

Lawson

Lawson is a Japanese convenience store chain that has a surprising variety of food options. The onigiri, or rice balls, are particularly popular.

7-Eleven

7-Eleven in Japan is not like 7-Eleven in other countries. The convenience store chain has a wide variety of fresh and packaged food options, including sushi, sandwiches, and bento boxes.

🍰 Desserts

Dominique Ansel Bakery

Dominique Ansel Bakery is a branch of the famous New York bakery that invented the cronut. The Tokyo location has its own unique pastries, including a frozen s’more.

Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory

Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory is a bakery that specializes in Totoro-shaped cream puffs. The cream puffs are filled with vanilla custard and come in a variety of flavors.

💬 FAQs

Q: What is the best time to eat in Tokyo?

A: Tokyo is a city that never sleeps, and many restaurants are open late into the night. However, it’s always a good idea to book a table in advance, especially for popular restaurants.

Q: Is it customary to tip in Tokyo?

A: No, it is not customary to tip in Tokyo. In fact, leaving a tip can be seen as rude.

Q: Are there vegetarian options in Tokyo?

A: Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian options in Tokyo. Many restaurants have vegetarian menus, and there are also vegetarian and vegan restaurants.

Q: Can I use my credit card in Tokyo restaurants?

A: Yes, most restaurants in Tokyo accept credit cards. However, it’s always a good idea to carry cash as well, just in case.

Q: What is the dress code for Tokyo restaurants?

A: The dress code for Tokyo restaurants varies. Some restaurants require formal attire, while others are more casual. It’s always a good idea to check the dress code before making a reservation.

Q: Is it rude to slurp noodles in Tokyo?

A: No, it is not rude to slurp noodles in Tokyo. In fact, it’s considered a compliment to the chef.

Q: What is the difference between sushi and sashimi?

A: Sushi is a dish that consists of vinegar rice and various toppings, including raw fish. Sashimi is a dish that consists of thin slices of raw fish.

Q: Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants that are affordable in Tokyo?

A: Yes, there are several Michelin-starred restaurants in Tokyo that are affordable. One example is Tsuta, which serves ramen and has a Michelin star.

Q: What is the best way to find restaurants in Tokyo?

A: There are several websites and apps that can help you find restaurants in Tokyo, including Tabelog and Gurunavi.

Q: What is the average cost of a meal in Tokyo?

A: The average cost of a meal in Tokyo varies depending on the restaurant. A casual meal can cost anywhere from 1000 to 3000 yen, while a Michelin-starred meal can cost upwards of 30,000 yen.

Q: What is the best area in Tokyo for food?

A: There are several areas in Tokyo that are known for their food, including Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Ginza.

Q: Can I eat street food in Tokyo?

A: Yes, there are plenty of street food options in Tokyo, including takoyaki, yakitori, and taiyaki.

Q: What is the best way to order in a Japanese restaurant if I don’t speak Japanese?

A: Most Japanese restaurants will have an English menu, and some may even have English-speaking staff. However, it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic Japanese phrases, such as arigatou (thank you) and sumimasen (excuse me).

📝 Conclusion

Tokyo is a food lover’s paradise, and there are countless places to eat. Whether you’re looking for sushi, ramen, or something in between, you’re sure to find something that suits your tastes. So go ahead and explore Tokyo’s culinary landscape – you won’t regret it!

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general information purposes only. The author and publisher assume no responsibility for errors or omissions, or for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein.