The restaurant scene in Tokyo is characterized by affordable options, especially compared to other international metropolises. They not only offer traditional Japanese dishes but also international fusion cuisine. The city is renowned for its izakayas, small establishments that provide a casual atmosphere and a wide variety of food and drinks.
Izakayas and
Ramen Shops
Izakayas are social pubs that offer a wide range of dishes and drinks. These are ideal places to enjoy the local atmosphere and try various Japanese dishes. Sociability is emphasized, and people gather to have a good time after work or on weekends. The menu includes grilled items, sashimi, and various small appetizers.
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A distinctive feature of many Izakayas is the 'All-you-can-drink' offers (Japanese: Nomihodai), where guests can drink as much as they want for a set period. This promotes a relaxed atmosphere, especially among Japanese patrons, encouraging social interaction. Izakayas typically offer a wide range of beverages, from beer and spirits to sake.
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Izakayas often serve as meeting places for business professionals looking for an informal environment to discuss deals or unwind after a long day. Therefore, Izakayas are not only places visited during leisure time but also crucial social hubs in the business world.
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Ramen shops are widespread in Tokyo, offering a variety of noodle soups prepared with different broths, meats, and vegetables. The art of ramen cooking has gained a loyal following, and the shops range from small street vendors to established restaurants focusing exclusively on this dish.
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In Tokyo, there are various ramen styles, including Shoyu (soy sauce), Miso (fermented soybean paste), Shio (salt), and Tonkotsu (pork bone broth). Each style has its own unique flavor, making the choice of the right shop a subjective experience.
Running Sushi
In the western world, many associate the idea of Japan with eating sushi. Consequently, some may be surprised by the relatively small role that going out for sushi plays for most Japanese themselves. Sushi, especially sashimi, is often more of an event and is offered in very expensive and upscale Japanese restaurants.
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At the same time, sushi enthusiasts in Japan can experience the unique phenomenon of "Running Sushi," where various sushi varieties pass by on a conveyor belt. This concept allows guests to order their favorite dishes with an endless supply. Typically, you order the desired items via a tablet and wait for a personal conveyor belt to bring it to your table.
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Contrary to the often common all-you-can-eat Running Sushi in western countries, this concept is relatively rare, if not entirely absent, in Japan.
Japanese
Fast Food
Yoshinoya and Matsuya are two of the most well-known fast-food chains in Japan, specializing in rice bowl dishes (Donburi). These restaurants are not only affordable but also provide a quick way to enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine. Donburi dishes often combine rice with various toppings such as fried chicken, beef, or fish. In comparison to our western notion of fast food, the offerings at these establishments are noticeably healthier.
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Japanese fast-food restaurants like Yoshinoya and Matsuya play a crucial role in the eating habits of the Japanese. These chains offer quick, affordable meals that consider the time constraints of modern life. The ordering processes are efficient and straightforward to cater to the needs of those on the go.
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The ordering process in Japanese fast-food restaurants is designed to be efficient and time-saving. Customers enter the restaurant and often choose their meal from a machine by inserting coins or banknotes. After ordering, they receive a coupon to present to the kitchen staff at the counter. This efficient process allows guests to order quickly and receive their meals without long wait times.
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Other fast-food options in Tokyo include:
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Sukiya: Known for its variations of Gyudon, Sukiya also offers Miso soups and other Japanese classics.
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MOS Burger: A local fast-food chain specializing in burgers, with a focus on Japanese ingredients and flavors (oriented towards the western style).
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CoCo Ichibanya: Famous for its curry rice dishes, this restaurant allows guests to customize the spiciness level of their curry.
Convenience
Stores
Unlike some other cultures, many Japanese people rarely cook at home. This can be attributed to the busy lifestyle, long working hours, and a lack of kitchen equipment. Instead, people often choose to eat out, whether it's at restaurants, izakayas, or fast-food establishments.
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However, Japanese people frequently opt for the quick alternative at one of the many thousands of convenience stores (Japanese: Konbini). Convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Lawson are integral to daily life in Japan. Here, people find not only snacks and drinks but also an astonishing variety of freshly prepared meals, from onigiri (rice balls) to sandwiches. These stores provide a convenient alternative to cooking at home.
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Even for tourists, konbinis offer a great way to stock up on essentials during a longer sightseeing tour in Tokyo. This allows more time for planned activities.
The lack of
international
cuisine in Tokyo
Compared to some Western countries, Japan has experienced relatively little migration, resulting in a limited diversity of authentic international cuisines. While Tokyo does have a few representations of foreign cuisines, the selection is limited compared to other global metropolises.
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Among the few international cuisines authentically represented in Tokyo, Indian food stands out. The Indian community in Tokyo has created a thriving culinary scene. From delicious curries to tandoori specialties, Indian restaurants in Tokyo offer an authentic experience.
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To fulfill the desire for international diversity, many restaurants in Tokyo tend to adapt international cuisine to the Japanese palate. This results in a fusion of flavors and styles that often do not reflect the authenticity of the original dishes. The so-called 'Japanization' of international foods typically alters the actual taste of the dishes.
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So, if you want to eat well and affordably, I recommend, except for Indian food, avoiding restaurants with international cuisine. Truly authentic international food in Tokyo is usually quite expensive.
Tokyo's Food halls
Large shopping centers in Japan often host impressive food halls that offer a wide range of Japanese restaurants. These food halls also serve as platforms where Tokyoites discover the latest culinary trends.
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Here is a selection of rewarding food halls:
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Tokyo Midtown Hibiya - 'The Gourmet Zone': Tokyo Midtown Hibiya, one of the newest shopping malls in Tokyo, houses 'The Gourmet Zone,' a spectacular food hall. Here, you can find sushi, ramen, wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets), and more - 'The Gourmet Zone' offers an impressive variety.
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Roppongi Hills - 'Hillside': The food hall 'Hillside' in Roppongi Hills is another example of Tokyo's culinary excellence. Visitors can not only purchase fresh local products but also sample a variety of dishes from different regions of Japan. From tempura and okonomiyaki to Wagyu burgers, 'Hillside' provides a wealth of high-quality dining options.
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Shibuya Sky Tower - 'SHIBUYA SKY': The food hall 'SHIBUYA SKY,' located in the Shibuya Scramble Square, is modern and designed for food enthusiasts. From excellent sushi to trendy street food specialties, 'SHIBUYA SKY' offers a solid mix that represents the diversity of Tokyo's dining culture.
Vegetarian
and vegan
alternatives
In a country where the cuisine is heavily influenced by fish, meat, and rice, it may be a challenge for vegetarians and vegans to find suitable dishes. Japanese dishes often use dashi (fish broth) as a base, limiting options for vegetarians.
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The low rate of migration to Japan and the relatively low tourism are the main reasons for the scarcity of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Due to the ongoing impact of COVID-19 and the lack of tourists, most vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Tokyo have disappeared, as the local population may not have much interest in such cuisine, often not even being familiar with the terms.
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Two of the remaining restaurants are:
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T's Tantan: Located at Tokyo Station, T's Tantan offers an outstanding selection of vegan ramen for noodle enthusiasts. The broth, often the heart of a good ramen, is prepared on a plant-based basis, allowing the dishes to remain not only authentic but also a true delight for vegan gourmets.
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Falafel Brothers: For lovers of Mediterranean cuisine, Falafel Brothers is an excellent choice. They offer falafel sandwiches and salads, combining Middle Eastern cuisine with a vegetarian focus, providing a welcome alternative in Tokyo's culinary scene.