Food and Drink

Shinjuku Station Dining: Torafuku’s All-You-Can-Eat Rice Teishoku Set Meals

Since ancient times, rice has been deeply connected to Shinto rituals and festivals, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. It remains Japan’s culinary identity—an everyday source of energy, with a simple and gentle taste that perfectly complements a wide range of side dishes. At “Ookamadomeshi Torafuku Lumine Shinjukuten,” (referred to hereafter as “Torafuku”), a popular teishoku (set meal) restaurant, you can enjoy…

Fresh, Crispy, Perfect – Tempura Teishoku You Can’t Miss at Tensuzu, Ueno

With its crisp coating and the burst of flavor from fresh ingredients, tempura is one of the most satisfying dishes in Japanese cuisine. Made with freshly caught seafood from Tokyo Bay and seasonal vegetables, Edomae tempura reflects the very flavors of Tokyo’s seasons. There is a restaurant that has been carefully preserving the tradition of Edomae tempura since the 18th…

Miso Lovers Must Visit! Regional Flavors Await at Misomebore, Roppongi

Miso, a traditional Japanese seasoning with a history spanning over a thousand years, is made by fermenting soybeans, concentrating their natural umami. It has countless uses—from miso soup to grilled and simmered dishes—making it a cornerstone of Japanese culinary culture and one of the country’s most beloved fermented foods. Miso soup at Misomebore In addition, miso has been gaining attention…

Retro Izakaya Dining on Hoppy Street — Asakusa Sakaba Okamoto

Just steps away from the bustling Sensō-ji Temple in Tokyo’s Asakusa neighborhood, you’ll find Hoppy Street (ホッピー通り), a retro-style alley lined with izakaya (Japanese gastropubs). This drinking district traces its origins back to the post–World War II era, when it began as a cluster of food stalls. The area earned its current nickname because many places served Hoppy, a uniquely…

What Can 5,000 Yen Buy at a Japanese Convenience Store? Here’s What Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Look Like!

Japanese convenience stores aren’t just handy shops with wide product selections open 24 hours a day. Of course, that alone is convenient enough. But from morning coffee to hearty lunches, light snacks, and even full-scale dinners, the range of food is so impressive that you could practically get through an entire day eating only from a convenience store. On top…

7 Best Tonkatsu Restaurants in Tokyo – Traditional, Local, and Creative Styless

Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, tonkatsu—breaded and deep-fried pork cutlets—is one of Japan’s iconic dishes. Across the country, specialty shops each put their own spin on this classic, and the deliciousness of tonkatsu has also gained attention overseas. What Is Katsu? Everything You Need to Know About Japan’s Fried Cutlet Craze At first glance, tonkatsu may…

4 Best Sushi Restaurants in Shibuya – From Conveyor Belt to Vegan Options!

When people think of Shibuya, they often picture Japan’s fashion and cultural trends taking shape and spreading to the world. Naturally, the food scene here is just as exciting. From international restaurants and casual cafés to long-established Japanese dining spots, Shibuya offers an impressive variety. Among them, sushi is a must. As one of Japan’s most iconic traditional dishes, it’s…

From Ramen to Burgers: The 10 Best Vegan Restaurants in Tokyo You Need to Try!

Tokyo is bustling with visitors from around the world. As internationalization advances rapidly, one phrase you’ll notice more and more is “Vegan Friendly.” From cafes and restaurants to fast food chains, diverse vegan menus are now available, making Tokyo an increasingly welcoming city for travelers seeking plant-based cuisine. For international visitors, having more dining options is always a plus—especially for…

How Much Does Wagyu Cost in Japan? The Best Restaurants for It on Just a 5,000 Yen Budget

Wagyū beef has now become a globally recognized brand, and it’s no longer uncommon to see it on the menus of high-end restaurants. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, savory flavor, wagyu enjoys immense popularity among gourmet enthusiasts. Wagyu at Wagyū no Kamisama However, enjoying wagyu abroad can be astonishingly expensive. In restaurants in the U.S. and Europe, a single…

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Hike Mt. Mitake and Reward Yourself with Momijiya’s Udon and Stunning Views

Located in the lush western Tokyo area of Okutama, Mt. Mitake is a popular destination for both spiritual visitors and hikers, crowned by the historic Musashi Mitake Shrine at its summit. The approach to the 929-meter summit is lined with lodging facilities and souvenir shops, bustling with hikers and tourists alike. Amid this lively path stands “Momijiya,” a long-established udon…

Japanese Wagashi Explained: A Look at Tokyo’s Classic and Modern Sweets

Wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) encapsulate the beauty of the seasons and Japan’s unique culinary aesthetic sensibility. They’re not just for tasting; they’re a feast for the eyes as well. In Tokyo, wagashi can be found everywhere, from long-established shops to modern stores beloved by younger generations. These Are THE Places to Eat Traditional Wagashi Sweets in Japan—And Buy Some to…