Best Eats In Central Tokyo: Uncovering the Culinary Gems of Japan’s Capital

Central Tokyo is a vibrant and bustling city that offers a wide variety of delicious cuisine. From traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine, the city is a food lover’s paradise. But with so many options, it can be overwhelming to decide where to eat. Whether you’re a local looking for new dining spots or a traveler visiting Japan for the first time, this guide will help you discover the best eats in central Tokyo. Let’s explore!

The Best Sushi in Town 🍣

Sushi is undoubtedly one of the most popular Japanese dishes known worldwide. Tokyo is home to some of the best sushi restaurants in the world. Here are some of our top picks:

Sukiyabashi Jiro

Located in Ginza, Sukiyabashi Jiro is one of the most famous sushi restaurants in the world, thanks to the documentary “Jiro Dreams of Sushi.” The restaurant only has ten seats and is run by the 94-year-old sushi master Jiro Ono.

Matsuhisa Tokyo

Matsuhisa Tokyo is the Japanese branch of the world-renowned Nobu restaurant chain. The restaurant offers a fusion of traditional Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, and their sushi is nothing short of exceptional.

Umi

Umi is a small and cozy sushi restaurant located in Roppongi. The chef, Takatoshi Toshi, is a master in the art of sushi-making and uses only the freshest ingredients.

The Best Ramen for Your Soul 🍜

Ramen is another staple in Japanese cuisine and is a must-try for anyone visiting Tokyo. Here are some of our favorite ramen shops:

Ippudo Ramen

Ippudo Ramen is a chain of ramen restaurants with locations all over the world. However, their original shop in Ebisu is where you can taste the authentic flavors of their delicious tonkotsu ramen.

Fu-unji

Fu-unji is a small and cozy ramen shop located near Shinjuku station. Their tsukemen, a dipping-style ramen, is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

Menya Musashi

Menya Musashi is a chain of ramen restaurants that specialize in tsukemen. Their broth is made from pork bones and dried sardines, giving it a rich and savory flavor.

The Best Japanese Sweets 🍡

Japanese sweets, or wagashi, are a delightful treat that you must try when in Tokyo. Here are some of the best places to satisfy your sweet tooth:

Shinjuku Takano

Shinjuku Takano is a wagashi shop that has been around since 1949. Their signature sweet is the dorayaki, a pancake-like confection filled with sweet red bean paste.

Sadaharu Aoki

Sadaharu Aoki is a French-trained pastry chef who has blended French pastry-making techniques with Japanese flavors. Their matcha croissant is a must-try, and their eclairs are just as delicious.

Tokyo Higashiya

Tokyo Higashiya is a wagashi shop that offers a wide selection of sweets made with traditional Japanese ingredients. Their yatsuhashi, a cinnamon-flavored mochi, is a popular choice.

The Best International Cuisine 🍔

Tokyo is a melting pot of cultures, and you can find a wide variety of international cuisine in the city. Here are some of our top picks:

Shake Shack

Shake Shack is a burger chain that originated in New York City. Their burgers, fries, and shakes are a popular choice for both locals and tourists in Tokyo.

Tacuba

Tacuba is a Mexican restaurant located in Roppongi. Their tacos, guacamole, and margaritas are both delicious and authentic.

Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée Tokyo

Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée Tokyo is a French restaurant located in the Shiodome area. The restaurant offers a modern interpretation of French cuisine and is a favorite among food critics.

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Tokyo for food?

The best time to visit Tokyo for food is during the spring and fall seasons. This is when the city holds its food festivals, and the weather is mild enough to enjoy walking around the city.

What is the best way to get around Tokyo to try different foods?

The best way to get around Tokyo is by train. The city has an extensive network of trains and subways that make it easy to get from one place to another.

What is the average cost of a meal in Tokyo?

The average cost of a meal in Tokyo varies depending on where you eat. A meal at a budget restaurant can cost around 1000 yen, while a meal at a high-end restaurant can cost upwards of 10,000 yen.

What is the most popular dish in Tokyo?

The most popular dish in Tokyo is undoubtedly sushi. However, ramen and tempura are also popular choices among locals and tourists.

Is it customary to tip at restaurants in Tokyo?

No, it is not customary to tip at restaurants in Tokyo, as it is already included in the bill.

Can I bring food into the train or subway in Tokyo?

While it is not prohibited to bring food into the train or subway in Tokyo, it is considered rude to eat in public transportation. It is best to eat before or after your commute.

What is the best way to order food in a Japanese restaurant if I do not speak Japanese?

Most restaurants in Tokyo have menus with pictures or English translations. You can also use a translation app on your phone to communicate with the staff.

What is the dress code for restaurants in Tokyo?

The dress code for restaurants in Tokyo varies depending on the restaurant. However, it is always best to dress neatly and avoid wearing shorts or sandals.

Conclusion

Central Tokyo is a culinary paradise that offers a wide variety of delicious and unique dishes. From sushi and ramen to international cuisine and traditional Japanese sweets, there is something for everyone. We hope this guide has helped you discover some of the best eats in central Tokyo. Bon appétit!

If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, be sure to check out our other guides on the best things to do and places to stay in the city.

Disclaimer

This article is meant to be a guide for food enthusiasts visiting Tokyo and is not intended to promote or endorse any specific restaurant or brand. The information provided in this article is accurate at the time of publication, but restaurants and menus may change over time. Please check with each individual restaurant for updated information.