Best Places To Eat In Asakusa

Asakusa, located in the heart of Tokyo, is famous for its charming traditional atmosphere and historic landmarks. It is considered a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists. But, what makes Asakusa even more attractive is its food scene. This district is home to a plethora of culinary options, ranging from street food to fine dining. In this article, we will be exploring the best places to eat in Asakusa.

The Best Street Food

🍢 Sensoji Temple – The iconic temple is not only a tourist attraction but also a foodie’s paradise. The street food stalls offer a variety of traditional Japanese snacks such as grilled skewers, rice crackers, and taiyaki (a fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste).

🍜 Hoppy Street – Hoppy Street is a narrow alleyway filled with izakayas (Japanese pubs) and street food vendors. This is the perfect spot to grab a beer and enjoy some yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) or oden (a hot pot dish).

🐟 Tsukiji Outer Market – While not technically in Asakusa, it is a short train ride away and worth a visit. This market is known for its fresh seafood, including sushi, sashimi, and grilled fish.

The Best Ramen

🍜 Rokurinsha – This famous ramen restaurant is located inside Tokyo Solamachi, a shopping center attached to Tokyo Skytree. Their signature dish is the tsukemen, cold noodles served with a hot dipping sauce.

🍜 Asakusa Ramen Yoroiya – This restaurant is known for its rich and flavorful broth, made from pork bones and chicken. Their most popular dish is the chashu ramen, topped with tender slices of pork.

The Best Sushi

🍣 Sushi Zanmai – This chain restaurant is known for its affordable yet delicious sushi. They have a wide variety of sushi options, from traditional nigiri to modern sushi rolls.

🍣 Sakae Sushi – Another chain restaurant that offers fresh and tasty sushi at affordable prices. They also have a conveyor belt system, allowing customers to choose their sushi as it passes by.

The Best Izakaya

🍺 Kikuya – This cozy izakaya has a retro atmosphere and serves traditional Japanese dishes such as yakitori, karaage (fried chicken), and nabe (hot pot).

🍺 Kappabashi Dougu Street – Not a specific restaurant, but a street in Asakusa known for its kitchenware shops and many small izakayas. It is a popular spot among locals, offering a wide variety of food and drinks.

The Best Fine Dining

🍴 Unagi Nakamura – This restaurant specializes in unagi (eel) dishes, grilled to perfection and served with a delectable sauce. The interior is elegant and traditional, making for a luxurious dining experience.

🍴 Tapas Molecular Bar – For a unique and modern dining experience, try Tapas Molecular Bar. The chefs use molecular gastronomy techniques to create visually stunning and delicious dishes.

The Best Vegan Options

🌿 T’s TanTan – This restaurant serves vegan ramen with rich and flavorful broth made from vegetables. They also offer vegan gyoza and fried rice.

🌿 Ain Soph.Ripple – This vegan restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from burgers to curries. Their most popular dish is the vegan soy meat steak.

FAQs

Q: What is Asakusa known for?

A: Asakusa is known for its traditional atmosphere and historic landmarks, including Sensoji Temple and Tokyo Skytree.

Q: Is Asakusa safe?

A: Asakusa is generally considered a safe district. However, as with any urban area, it is always advisable to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Q: Are there any vegetarian or vegan options in Asakusa?

A: Yes, there are several restaurants in Asakusa that offer vegetarian and vegan options, including T’s TanTan and Ain Soph.Ripple.

Q: What is the best way to get to Asakusa?

A: Asakusa is easily accessible by train or subway. The closest stations are Asakusa Station and Tawaramachi Station.

Q: What is the best time to visit Asakusa?

A: Asakusa can be visited year-round, but the best time is during the cherry blossom season (late March to early April) or the Sanja Matsuri festival (usually held in May).

Q: Can I use credit cards in Asakusa?

A: Most restaurants and shops in Asakusa accept credit cards, but it is always advisable to carry some cash just in case.

Q: What is the dress code for restaurants in Asakusa?

A: Asakusa is a relatively casual district, so there is no strict dress code for restaurants. However, it is always best to dress appropriately for the occasion.

Q: What is the price range for restaurants in Asakusa?

A: The price range for restaurants in Asakusa varies depending on the type of cuisine and establishment. Street food vendors and izakayas tend to be more affordable, while fine dining restaurants can be quite expensive.

Q: Are reservations necessary for restaurants in Asakusa?

A: It is always best to make reservations for fine dining restaurants in Asakusa. However, most street food vendors and izakayas do not require reservations.

Q: Are there any English menus in Asakusa restaurants?

A: Some restaurants in Asakusa offer English menus, but it is always best to check beforehand or bring a translation app.

Q: Is tipping expected in Asakusa restaurants?

A: No, tipping is not expected in Japan. The service charge is typically included in the price of the meal.

Q: Can I bring my own alcohol to restaurants in Asakusa?

A: No, it is not common to bring your own alcohol to restaurants in Japan. Most establishments have a wide selection of drinks to choose from.

Q: What is the etiquette for eating in Asakusa?

A: Eating in Asakusa is similar to eating in other parts of Japan. It is customary to say itadakimasu before starting your meal and gochisousama deshita after finishing. It is also polite to use chopsticks and not waste food.

Q: Are there any restaurants in Asakusa with private rooms?

A: Yes, some fine dining restaurants and izakayas in Asakusa offer private rooms for groups.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Asakusa is a food lover’s paradise with a diverse range of culinary options to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for street food or fine dining, Asakusa has something for everyone. So, next time you’re in Tokyo, make sure to add Asakusa to your list of must-visit food destinations.

Don’t forget to try some of the district’s iconic dishes such as senbei, tsukemen, and unagi. And, if you have any dietary restrictions, there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available as well.

So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore Asakusa’s vibrant food scene and satisfy your taste buds.

Disclaimer

This article is intended for informational purposes only. The information in this article is based on the author’s personal experience and research at the time of writing. Prices and menu items may vary and are subject to change. It is always advisable to check with each restaurant before visiting. The author is not responsible for any losses, damages, or injuries that may occur as a result of following the information in this article.