The renowned restaurant chain “DENKO-SEKKA” represents the best of Hiroshima’s okonomiyaki cuisine. For those unfamiliar, okonomiyaki is often described as a Japanese “savory pancake” filled with a variety of ingredients like meat, vegetables, and noodles. The dish is cooked on a griddle and served hot, often right in front of you. DENKO-SEKKA has the rare distinction of being the first…

It’d be no exaggeration to call udon one of Japan’s national dishes. The country boasts numerous udon specialty shops, and “Yamashita Honki Udon Shinjuku Kabukichō” (hereafter referred to as “Yamashita Honki Udon”) is one of them. Located in Shinjuku’s Kabukichō district, Yamashita Honki Udon serves up udon with a strong emphasis on the broth and noodle texture, and it’s available…

In July 2022, the Dōgenzaka district of Shibuya, Tokyo, welcomed a divine new addition to its culinary scene: “Wagyū no Kamisama,” or ‘The God of Wagyu.’ This haven for beef aficionados offers an almost heavenly experience, where top-grade wagyu beef is not just a luxury, but a reasonably priced reality. Savor the divine “Diamond cut tongue”: beautiful and delicious! A…

Situated in the busy district of Shibuya, Tokyo, “Fishmonger’s Kitchen OH! TORO KITCHEN Shibuya” (hereunder referred as “OH! TORO KITCHEN”) is a sanctuary for tuna lovers, offering a dining experience that brims with “surprises and delight.” Sourced directly from Yonekawa Fisheries, an esteemed tuna wholesaler boasting a rich history of over 85 years, the tuna at OH! TORO KITCHEN is…

Emblematic of Japanese cuisine, sushi has long been a popular gourmet option for international visitors to Japan. These days, a new and innovative era of sushi is emerging in Japan, reshaping its traditional image. One restaurant where you can get a taste for this “neo-sushi” is “Uogaku Mania Sushinjuku” (referred to hereafter as “Sushinjuku”), located in Shinjuku. “マグロまみれ,” Smothered in…

Sukiyaki and shabu-shabu are classic Japanese hotpot dishes that have At “Hitori Shabu-shabu Nanadaime Matsugorou Shinjuku TOHO Building” (hereinafter referred to as “MATSUGORO Hitori Shabu Shabu”), you can really appreciate the true taste of meat at reasonable prices, which has been driving a lot of customers to its doors. “すき焼き,” Sukiyaki 2,948 JPY (tax included) MATSUGORO Hitori Shabu Shabu is…

When it comes to Japan’s iconic noodle dishes, it’s safe to say ramen, udon, and soba are in the spotlight. These are well-known worldwide, with eateries dedicated to them even outside Japan. However, Japan boasts quite a bit more when it comes to noodle cuisine. In particular, sōmen, often referred to as a “summer tradition,” is a noodle dish that’s…

Gyoza dumplings are wildly popular in Japan, so you’ll find quite a lot of specialty shops dedicated to them. These beloved dumplings originated in China but have evolved uniquely in Japan, becoming incredibly popular. Gyoza are well-loved by locals and have also captivated foreign tourists in Japan. A gyoza and sake bar in Kabukichō that’s open 24/7 At “Shinjuku Kakekomi…

Matcha, a finely ground green tea, is more than just a drink in Japan—it’s a storied aspect of the country’s rich culture. Its velvety, complex flavor has won over enthusiasts around the globe. If you’re in Tokyo and craving an authentic matcha experience, look no further than “KYOTO SARYO SUISEN Shibuya PARCO” (hereunder referred to as “KYOTO SARYO SUISEN”). Situated…

Tokyo’s bustling district of Shinjuku has many busy eateries, but there’s one spaghetti specialty restaurant where you’ll find long lines of people waiting to get in called Al dente Shinjuku Center building (referred to below as “Al dente”). It first opened in 1979 in the Shinjuku Center Building and continues draw in many customers to this day. Al dente’s bacon…

Imagine the bustling streets of Tokyo’s Shibuya district serving up the hearty flavors of Hokkaido. One dish, a local favorite originating from the coastal town of Otaru, is a true delight: wakadori no hanmiage (referred hereunder as hanmiage). Featuring half of a spring chicken that’s quickly deep-fried, it has crispy skin and juicy, succulent meat. “小樽名物 若鶏半身揚げ,” Otaru’s Famous Fried…

When it comes to cuisine, it’s safe to say that presentation is just as important as taste and plays a crucial role in the overall satisfaction of the diner. Located in an area surrounded by office buildings and hotels, “THE RAMEN WAR Nishi Shinjuku” (hereafter referred to as “The Ramen War”) is a ramen restaurant known for its visually stunning…

Directly connected to Shibuya Station in Tokyo is the commercial facility TOKYU PLAZA SHIBUYA, packed with a variety of dining options, including a culinary gem: “ŌSAKA Kitchen TOKYU PLAZA SHIBUYA” (hereunder referred to as “Osaka Kitchen”). At this renowned restaurant, you can enjoy carefully selected wagyu steak and other teppanyaki dishes absolutely sure to delight your palate and leave you…

In the heart of Tokyo’s Shibuya district lies a unique dining spot that captures the essence of a Kyoto townscape. “Moon in the sky Shibuya” stands as an exceptional destination for authentic Japanese cuisine, offering a serene atmosphere that allows you to escape the city’s hustle for a tranquil meal. Savor an all-star seafood lineup with the “Luxurious Crab Seafood…

Tucked away on Spain-Zaka (Spanish Hill) in Tokyo’s Shibuya district is “BITYUYA CHOUZAEMON” (pronounced ‘bichūya chōzaemon’), a restaurant that feels like a cozy, well-kept secret. The restaurant radiates an old-world charm and specializes in yakitori (skewered chicken dishes), grilled to perfection over binchōtan, a type of high-quality white charcoal made from ubame oak. Popular at lunchtime: “Nama Oyakodon” made with…