A Culinary Tour of Tokyo’s Best Restaurants

Tokyo will transform the way you think about food in Japan, with every meal offering a story of its own. Picture yourself at a sushi counter, watching a master chef expertly slice the freshest catch of the day, or enjoying a steaming bowl of ramen in a cosy little shop after a long day of exploring.

From the bustling energy of Tsukiji Market to the refined elegance of its many Michelin-starred restaurants, the city's dining scene is second to none. Feeling hungry?

Let’s delve into the dishes, dining spots, and culinary experiences that make Tokyo an unmissable destination for food lovers.

Sushi in Tokyo is an art form. You'll find everything from traditional Edomae-style to innovative twists on the classic, making it one of the best places in the world for sushi lovers.

For a top-tier experience, try Sukiyabashi Jiro, a three-Michelin-starred gem where each piece of sushi is a work of art crafted by a master chef. If you're after something more casual, Sushi Dai at Toyosu Market is a great choice. Here, the freshness of the fish and the lively market atmosphere make for a truly memorable meal.

For an immersive dining experience, try omakase—a chef’s tasting menu where each bite showcases the chef’s skill and the season’s best ingredients.

Location Tip: Sukiyabashi Jiro is located near Ginza Station, while Sushi Dai is within Toyosu Market, easily reached via the Yurikamome Line.

Dining Tip: Sushi etiquette matters in Japan. Use your hands or chopsticks for nigiri (rice topped with fish) and dip the fish side—not the rice—into the soy sauce to maintain the perfect balance of flavours.

Ramen in Tokyo is a beloved comfort food. Imagine a rich, creamy tonkotsu broth, a tangy shoyu, or a delicate shio—there's a bowl for every craving.

Ichiran Ramen is a must-visit for its unique solo dining booths and customisable bowls, while Nakiryu, another Michelin-starred spot, is famed for its mouth-watering tantanmen (spicy sesame noodles). For something less conventional, check out Afuri, where yuzu-infused broth adds a zesty twist to traditional ramen.

Location Tip: Ichiran has locations across Tokyo, with the Shibuya branch being especially popular. Nakiryu is near Otsuka Station on the JR Yamanote Line, while Afuri can be found in Harajuku, just a short walk from the station.

Dining Tip: Ramen shops are typically fast-paced environments. Order your bowl using the ticket machines at the entrance, and don’t worry about slurping—it’s not just allowed; it’s encouraged!

Tokyo’s yakitori joints are where locals go to unwind, and for good reason. These casual eateries specialise in skewered meats grilled over charcoal, offering everything from smoky chicken thighs to adventurous bites like liver or gizzards.

For a truly authentic experience, visit Omoide Yokocho near Shinjuku Station, a maze of tiny alleys packed with yakitori stalls. If you’re after something a little more upscale, head to Bird Land in Ginza, a Michelin-starred spot offering expertly grilled skewers alongside fine wine or sake.

Location Tip: Omoide Yokocho is just a short walk from Shinjuku Station’s west exit. Bird Land is located near Ginza Station, making it easy to find after a day of exploring.

Dining Tip: Complete your yakitori experience with a cold beer or a glass of sake. And don’t skip the tare sauce — a sweet-savoury glaze that adds an extra layer of flavour to the skewers.

Tokyo is home to more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city, making it a global capital of fine dining. Whether you’re after traditional Japanese elegance or bold contemporary flavours, Tokyo’s top restaurants deliver culinary experiences to remember.

At Narisawa, the focus is on sustainability and nature-inspired cuisine, where each dish is crafted with local, seasonal ingredients. Meanwhile, Den, known for its playful twists on Japanese dishes, offers a whimsical take on fine dining that’s as fun as it is delicious.

Location Tip: Many fine dining restaurants are located in central areas like Ginza, Minato, and Roppongi. Plan your transportation via the Tokyo Metro for ease, and book your reservation weeks or even months in advance.

Dining Tip: Reservations are essential at Tokyo’s fine dining restaurants and are often required months in advance. When dining, enjoy the experience at a leisurely pace. Tipping isn’t customary in Japan; a simple “thank you” (arigatou gozaimasu) will suffice.

Kaiseki, the traditional multi-course Japanese meal, is a feast for both the palate and the eyes.cEach dish reflects the season and showcases meticulous artistry, from delicate sashimi to exquisitely arranged vegetable plates.

For an authentic kaiseki experience, visit Kikunoi Akasaka, where every bite tells a story of Japan’s culinary heritage.

Location Tip: Kikunoi Akasaka is near Akasaka-Mitsuke Station, ideal for pairing with nearby cultural exploration.

Dining Tip: Kaiseki is a slow, immersive experience, often lasting several hours. Embrace the rhythm and savour each course as it’s served.

For a more laid-back dining experience, step into an izakaya, Japan’s version of a gastropub. These lively spots are perfect for unwinding with friends over small plates and drinks.

At Shinjuku’s Torikizoku, enjoy an affordable range of grilled skewers, fried snacks, and refreshing beverages. For a more traditional vibe, visit Hoppy Street in Asakusa, where izakayas line the street, offering everything from sashimi to hearty stews.

Location Tip: Hoppy Street is a short walk from Asakusa Station, while Torikizoku has branches in major areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Dining Tip: Ordering at an izakaya is typically done in rounds. Start with drinks, then add small dishes to share. Be sure to try hoppy, a beer-like drink mixed with shochu, for a unique Tokyo experience.

Tokyo’s street food scene is a delicious adventure. Wander through Ameya-Yokocho in Ueno to snack on yakitori, takoyaki (octopus balls), and melonpan (sweet bread).

Seafood lovers should head to Tsukiji Outer Market. Here, you'll find everything from char-grilled scallops to tamagoyaki—a sweet, fluffy rolled omelette that's just as fun to watch being made as it is to eat. Arriving early ensures you enjoy the freshest offerings before the crowds arrive.

Location Tip: Ameya-Yokocho is near Ueno Station, while Tsukiji Outer Market is easily accessible via the Hibiya Line at Tsukiji Station.

Dining Tip: Many stalls are cash-only, so bring small bills and coins. It’s polite to eat your food near the stall where you bought it, as eating while walking is less common in Japan.

Tokyo's dining scene isn’t limited to the food itself. It’s the sushi chef’s meticulous attention to detail, the sizzling yakitori on a charcoal grill, and the friendly banter with locals at a bustling izakaya. It’s standing at a street stall, savouring your first freshly made taiyaki, or raising a toast with strangers over a shared plate of karaage.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or someone who just loves exploring, Tokyo’s restaurants and food stalls promise a little something for everyone.

Ready to plan your culinary adventure? When it comes to experiencing Tokyo's dining scene, it's always a good time to visit Japan. Tokyo’s tables are waiting — and they’re serving up more than just a meal. Start planning your Tokyo itinerary today.