Western cuisine was introduced to Japan in the mid-19th century and gradually adapted to suit local tastes, giving rise to yōshoku—a uniquely Japanese genre of Western-inspired dishes. Among these, omurice, a comforting blend of omelet and ketchup-flavored rice, remains one of the most beloved staples. At “Yoshoku Kurofunetei,” a long-established restaurant in Ueno, Tokyo, you can enjoy a classic omurice…
Omurice (omelet rice) is a quintessential example of yōshoku, Western-inspired cuisine that originated and evolved in Japan. There are two main types of omurice: one where ketchup-flavored chicken rice is wrapped in a thin omelet, and another where creamy, soft-scrambled eggs are spooned over the rice. One of the first restaurants to adopt the latter style is the iconic yoshoku…
For food lovers visiting Tokyo, Tsukiji is a must-visit destination. Once Japan’s largest fish market that attracted foodies from around the globe, Tsukiji Market still retains much of its vibrant energy today. Even after the wholesale market operations were moved to Toyosu, Tsukiji’s outer market continues to thrive, lined with sushi shops, seafood restaurants, and street food stalls where visitors…
Wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets, embody the country’s singular aesthetic sensibilities. Their forms and colors express seasonal scenery and even poetic sentiment, displaying a delicate artistry akin to fine crafts. At the heart of wagashi lies a deep appreciation for nature, the seasons, and the spirit of hospitality—core elements of Japanese culture. Wagashi are more than just confections; they are symbols…
Since its founding in 1854 as a tea wholesaler in Uji, Kyoto—Japan’s famed tea-producing region—”Nakamura Tokichi Honten” has steadfastly nurtured the nation’s tea culture for over a century. Today, you can experience the spirit and flavor of this long-established tea house in Ginza, Tokyo, at the “Nakamura Tokichi Ginza Store” (hereafter referred to as “Nakamura Tokichi Ginza”). The ingredients used…
At Tokyo Solamachi, the shopping complex at the base of Tokyo Skytree, you can enjoy a special fruit-filled summer experience. One must-visit destination is “Horiuchi Fruit Farm TOKYO Solamachi” (referred to hereafter as “Horiuchi Fruit Farm”), a cafe operated directly by the fruit-specialist farm of the same name. During the summer, the Tokyo Solamachi branch offers seasonally-exclusive kakigōri (shaved ice)…
Just a short walk from the bustle of Omotesando in Tokyo lies Urasando Garden, a quiet little complex housed in a beautifully renovated traditional Japanese home. Tucked away in one corner is “Riz Labo Kitchen Urasando Garden” (hereafter referred to as “Riz Labo Kitchen”), a cafe specializing in gluten-free sweets. The stars of the menu are pancakes and crepes made…
Yamagata Prefecture is famous for cherries, Okayama Prefecture for peaches, and Hokkaidō Prefecture for melons—Japan is dotted with regions known for their signature fruits. Among them, Wakayama Prefecture stands out as a major fruit-producing region, thanks to its rich natural environment and mild climate. “Kannonyama Fruit Parlour Ginza,” with locations in Wakayama and Tokyo’s upscale Ginza district, is a popular…
Walking through the lively streets of Asakusa, your eyes are drawn to an array of matcha sweets that make you want to stop in your tracks. From cakes to crepes, puddings to parfaits, the variety is so abundant it’s overwhelming to choose. However, if you want to savor matcha made with carefully selected ingredients, you should definitely visit “Kaminari Issa…
Matcha has long been rooted in Japanese culture, from tea ceremonies to wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets). But this time-honored flavor has evolved in surprisingly creative ways with the times. In recent years, a wave of specialty matcha dessert shops has ushered in a new era of matcha sweets that blend Japanese tradition with Western innovation. Why not step into this…
In Japan, where the seasons are clearly defined, spring brings strawberries, summer offers watermelon and melon, autumn presents grapes, and winter delivers mandarins—resulting in a rich variety of seasonal fruits throughout the year. Fruits grown across Japan’s diverse climates each boast unique sweetness, aroma, and juiciness. “MARUTOME the Juicery Parfaiteria LUMINE Shinjuku” (hereafter referred to as MARUTOME the Juicery Parfaiteria”)…
Located at Japan’s southernmost point, Okinawa still preserves its unique culture today. That uniqueness is especially evident in its cuisine, which is quite different from what you’ll typically find in Tokyo or on the mainland. “Paikaji” is an Okinawan restaurant with six locations in Okinawa and two in Tokyo. It not only offers authentic Okinawan dishes, but also lets guests…
Discover the vibrant flavors of Okinawa, a tropical resort destination surrounded by the sea, without leaving Tokyo. With its own distinct cultural background, Okinawa has developed many one-of-a-kind dishes that stand out even among Japan’s diverse regional cuisines. One highly praised spot where you can enjoy authentic, high-quality Okinawan food in Tokyo is “Okinawa Sakaba Haisai Ginzaten,” (hereafter referred to…
Due to its unique historical background, Okinawa has developed a rich and distinct culture unlike that of mainland Japan. This includes a diverse food culture, and in recent years, more and more restaurants in Tokyo offer Okinawan cuisine. Among them, “Dachibin” in Kōenji stands out for its long-standing history. Founded in 1978, Dachibin has become a pioneer of Okinawan food…
Shimbashi, one of Tokyo’s premier business districts, is a food lover’s paradise offering everything from casual izakaya to upscale restaurants. Standing right in front of Shimbashi Station’s Hibiya Exit (SL Square), the New Shimbashi Building is one of the area’s most iconic landmarks, known for its unique and deep-rooted atmosphere that continues to draw people in. Located on the second…