Located in Tokyo’s vibrant Shibuya district, Yakiniku ZENIBA (hereafter referred to as ZENIBA) distinguishes itself as a culinary landmark, celebrated for its exceptional A5-ranked Japanese wagyū beef. Featuring lightly seared, nearly rare sirloin, sea urchin, and salmon roe, the restaurant’s signature dish, the Namaiki Don, has taken social media by storm with its visual allure. The namaiki in the name…

At Shibuya PARCO, located in the Udagawachō area of Shibuya in Tokyo, a wide variety of dining options are available, appealing to all kinds of culinary interests. Situated on the underground level of the shopping complex, Vegan Izakaya Masaka (hereafter referred to as “Masaka”) specializes in vegan cuisine. And no, we’re not just talking about leafy greens; their menu is…

Just across the Shibuya Scramble Crossing from Shibuya Station lies “Shibuya Nishimura Fruits Parlor Dougenzaka-ten” (hereafter referred to as Nishimura Fruits Parlor). Since opening in 1936, it has been a beloved fixture in the Shibuya community. Fruit parfaits loaded with seasonal fruits At Nishimura Fruits Parlor, their guiding principle is “serving the best fruit at its peak season.” In practice,…

Highly acclaimed wagyū is a premium type of Japanese beef that’s a culinary sensation not only in its homeland but also around the world. Fortunately, there’s a welcoming spot in Tokyo’s bustling Shibuya district where you can indulge in this gourmet delight. Quadruple the pleasure with Miyoshitei’s “Japanese Wagyu beef Spencer roll meat hitsumabushi” Located within Shibuya Mark City, adjacent…

Commonly known as Japanese rice balls in English, onigiri are a cherished food item in Japan that spans generations. Amid a recent surge in specialized onigiri shops, Umami bites writer Bensky, a long-time resident of Japan who appreciates Japanese rice, was drawn to Togoshi-ya Shibuya in the Dōgenzaka neighborhood of Tokyo’s Shibuya Ward. Officially named “Togoshi-ya, the place for onigiri…

Although its name may evoke a simple coffee spot, Cafe Legato in Shibuya’s Dogenzaka area is a restaurant specializing in casual Italian cuisine. “渡り蟹のトマトクリームソース,” Crab with Tomato Cream Sauce 1,870 JPY (tax included) From its perch on the 15th floor, Cafe Legato offers panoramic views of Shibuya, and even a glimpse of Mount Fuji on clear winter days. The restaurant…

Katsu is a delicious and popular Japanese dish that is enjoyed by both locals and foreigners alike. It’s also one of Japan’s most beloved comfort foods. What is katsu? Katsu カツ consists of a deep-fried and breaded cutlet of meat. Meats such as pork, chicken, or beef are used but pork is by far the most common type of katsu…

There’s something uniquely captivating about a culture’s approach to social dining and drinking. In Japan, nowhere is this more apparent than at an 居酒屋 izakaya, the nation’s version of a casual gastropub. With its wide variety of food and drink offerings, the izakaya embodies the Japanese ethos of camaraderie and relaxation after a day’s work. Understanding izakaya dining culture can…

Diving into the seemingly ordinary aspects of a culture often unveils extraordinary insights. This is especially true when it comes to exploring Japanese dining culture, where one encounters the concept of 定食 teishoku, the traditional set meal. Teishoku is emblematic of the Japanese eating experience. By understanding its structure and components, we gain an authentic glimpse into the concepts of…

In Japan, the act of gift-giving holds a significant place in social and cultural customs. お土産 omiyage, referring to souvenirs or gifts, often take the form of distinctive snacks. These snacks are not just tasteful delights but also embodiments of regional uniqueness, aesthetic allure, and profound cultural symbolism. As such, for tourists visiting Japan, these snacks serve as ideal gifts,…

Have you ever embarked on a culinary adventure that completely changed your perception of a certain food? Welcome to Japan, where the humble freshwater eel, or unagi, promises to deliver just that – a gastronomic experience that leaves you craving for more. Unagi (written in Japanese as 鰻 or うなぎ and sometimes ウナギ) holds a celebrated spot in the world…

When it comes to Japanese cuisine, dishes like sushi and ramen tend to steal the limelight. However, Japan’s food scene is teeming with more subtle treasures that encapsulate the country’s unique flavors and culinary ethos. Two such gems are soba (written either as 蕎麦 or そば) and udon (usually written as うどん but also as 饂飩). Diving into their world…

When traveling to Japan, many international visitors choose Tokyo as their base. As such, understanding how to navigate from the airports to the central hotel areas in Tokyo is crucial. Considering the various transportation options available, this article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best method based on your needs. Access from Haneda Airport Haneda…

Embarking on a journey to Japan offers more than just sightseeing; it’s an immersive experience. One key part of this experience is the country’s diverse array of accommodations. Each type of lodging offers a unique blend of comfort, culture, and charm. This guide will outline the main options at your disposal, organized into the following sections: Japanese Style, Western Style,…

In the realm of Japanese snacking, the role of 駄菓子 dagashi can’t be understated. These low-cost, fun-packed goodies serve not only as delicious treats but also as a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Imbued with elements of whimsy, dagashi is a true embodiment of joy and culture, making them an absolute must-try for first-time visitors to Japan. The following guide…