Japan, a country rich in history, culture, and most notably, delicious food, is a haven for food enthusiasts worldwide. This is your ultimate food travel guide when visiting Japan, covering everything from the best restaurants and street food to traditional drinks and desserts that you absolutely cannot miss. So, pack your bags and prepare your palate for an unforgettable culinary journey!
Restaurants to Try in Tokyo
Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, is a foodie’s paradise. From sushi to ramen, there’s a plethora of options to choose from. Here’s our pick of the top 5 restaurants that offer the best authentic Japanese cuisine:
1. Sukiyabashi Jiro: Known for its exquisite sushi, this restaurant is a must-visit for sushi lovers.
Located in the heart of Tokyo, Sukiyabashi Jiro is a small, unassuming restaurant that has earned a reputation as one of the world’s best sushi restaurants. Headed by the legendary sushi master Jiro Ono, who is now in his 90s, the restaurant serves only the freshest and highest quality seafood in its dishes.
Sukiyabashi Jiro has been awarded three Michelin stars and has been visited by many celebrities and world leaders, including former US President Barack Obama. The restaurant only seats ten people at a time, ensuring an intimate dining experience and allowing the chefs to give their full attention to each dish.
Be warned though, that getting a reservation at Sukiyabashi Jiro can be difficult, with some guests having to book months in advance. However, for those lucky enough to get a seat at the sushi bar, it is an unforgettable culinary experience that is well worth the effort.
2. Ryugin: This three-Michelin-starred restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Japanese cuisine.
Located in the Roppongi Hills complex in Tokyo, Ryugin is renowned for its innovative approach to Japanese cuisine. Chef Seiji Yamamoto and his team use only the freshest ingredients, many of which are sourced locally and some even grown in the restaurant’s garden. The menu changes seasonally, but always features the signature “Sakura” dish, which showcases the beauty of cherry blossoms in both flavor and presentation. The restaurant’s interior is sleek and modern, with a minimalist design that allows the food to take center stage. Dining at Ryugin is a truly unforgettable experience that combines the best of traditional Japanese cuisine with contemporary techniques and flavors.
3. Kanda: Kanda specializes in seasonal Japanese cuisine crafted with the freshest ingredients.
Their menu is a culinary journey through Japan, with dishes that showcase the country’s diverse regional flavors. From sashimi to tempura, every dish is prepared with incredible attention to detail and presented beautifully. The restaurant’s minimalist decor and serene ambiance add to the dining experience, making it the perfect place to enjoy a romantic dinner or celebrate a special occasion with friends and family. Kanda is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine and impeccable service.
4. Ishikawa: Known for its superb kaiseki (multi-course) meals, Ishikawa offers an unforgettable dining experience.
In addition to its culinary delights, Ishikawa is also home to the historic Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the picturesque landscape and taking in the seasonal beauty of the flowers, trees, and ponds. Ishikawa is also known for its traditional crafts, such as Kutani pottery and Wajima lacquerware, which make for unique souvenirs to bring back home. With its blend of delicious food, natural beauty, and cultural richness, Ishikawa is a must-visit destination in Japan.
5. Kyubey: Famous for its high-quality sushi and exceptional service, Kyubey is a Tokyo dining staple.
Located in the heart of the city, Kyubey has been serving patrons since 1935. The restaurant is renowned for its use of fresh, local ingredients and traditional preparation techniques. Diners can choose from a variety of sushi options, including the famous omakase course, which features a selection of the chef’s recommended sushi. In addition to sushi, Kyubey also offers an extensive menu of other Japanese dishes, such as tempura, soba noodles, and grilled fish. The restaurant’s elegant atmosphere and attentive staff ensure that every guest enjoys a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re a sushi lover or simply looking for an exceptional meal in Tokyo, Kyubey is not to be missed.
Best Street Food in Japan
Japanese street food, known for its variety and taste, is an integral part of Japan’s culinary culture. Here are a few street foods that you must try:
- Takoyaki: A popular snack made of a wheat flour-based batter filled with diced octopus.
While takoyaki can be found all over Japan, many people argue that the best takoyaki in the country can be found in Osaka. This city is known for its vibrant street food scene, and Takoyaki is one of the most popular snacks on offer. Some of the best takoyaki in Osaka can be found in the Dotonbori area, where vendors compete to create the perfect recipe.
Whether you’re in Osaka or another part of Japan, be sure to try some takoyaki on your next visit. It’s a delicious and unique snack that’s sure to leave you wanting more!
2. Okonomiyaki: Often referred to as “Japanese pizza,” Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake filled with a variety of ingredients.
Where can you find the best okonomiyaki in Japan? The answer to that question is highly debated, as different regions of Japan have their unique take on the dish. However, many people consider Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki to be the best. This version has layers of cabbage, noodles, pork belly, and egg, all topped with a sweet and savory sauce. It’s a must-try dish for anyone visiting Japan, and there are plenty of restaurants throughout the country that specialize in okonomiyaki.
3. Yakitori: These are grilled chicken skewers usually served with a tare sauce or salt.
Some of the most highly acclaimed yakitori restaurants can be found in Tokyo’s Yakitori Alley or Osaka’s Dotonbori district. However, it’s important to note that each region of Japan has its unique take on yakitori, with variations in seasoning, meat cuts, and cooking techniques. So, whether you prefer your skewers with a sweet and savory tare sauce or simply seasoned with salt, there’s sure to be a yakitori spot in Japan that will satisfy your taste buds.
4. Yakisoba: A classic noodle dish, Yakisoba is fried noodles served with veggies and a savory sauce. Best yakisoba in Japan?
Although Yakisoba can be found all over Japan, some cities are particularly famous for their version of the dish. For example, the city of Okonomimura in Hiroshima is known for its “modan-yaki” style of yakisoba, which is cooked on a hot plate with a variety of toppings like pork, seafood, and noodles. In Osaka, the dish is often served with a generous helping of mayonnaise, and in Hokkaido, it is sometimes made with seafood like squid and shrimp.
4. Taiyaki: A sweet snack, Taiyaki is a fish-shaped cake usually filled with red bean paste.
Some of the most popular places to find delicious taiyaki include Naniwaya Sohonten in Tokyo, where the treat was first invented, and Gindaco in Osaka, known for its crispy exterior and creamy filling. Other notable spots include Kurikoan in Kyoto, which offers a variety of fillings such as matcha and custard, and Kameya Yoshinaga in Nagoya, which has been serving up taiyaki for over 100 years. No matter where you go, be sure to try this classic Japanese snack and savor the delicious combination of sweet filling and crunchy exterior.
Best Desserts in Japan
Japanese desserts, often less sweet than their Western counterparts, are a perfect end to any meal. Here are some desserts you should not miss:
- Mochi: A chewy rice cake often filled with sweet red bean paste.
- Dorayaki: A sweet pancake sandwich with a filling of sweet red bean paste.
- Matcha Ice Cream: A refreshing ice cream made with traditional Matcha tea powder.
- Sakura Mochi: A pink-colored rice cake filled with sweetened red bean paste and wrapped in a pickled cherry blossom leaf.
- Yokan: A jelly-like dessert made from red bean paste, sugar, and agar.
Exploring Japanese food while traveling can be a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Japan is renowned for its culinary artistry, ranging from sushi to ramen to tempura to yakitori and beyond. Japanese cuisine is known for its attention to detail, use of fresh and high-quality ingredients, and emphasis on umami flavor.
One of the reasons to explore Japanese food while traveling is to have the opportunity to taste authentic Japanese cuisine. While Japanese restaurants exist around the world, the food is often different due to local adaptations. By visiting Japan, you can taste the food the way it was meant to be enjoyed.
Another reason to try Japanese food is that it is generally healthy and nutritious. Japanese cuisine often features seafood, vegetables, and rice, which are all low in fat and high in vitamins and minerals. Additionally, the Japanese take great pride in the presentation of their food, making each dish a work of art in both appearance and flavor.
Experiencing Japanese food while traveling can be rewarding, it allows you to taste authentic cuisine, try new dishes, and appreciate the artistry and culture behind Japanese cooking.
