Tokyo’s signature dishes include Sushi, Ramen, Udon, and Tempura – a food scene that’s both exciting and intimidating, with a hook that will leave you wanting more.
The 8 Dishes You Must Try Before You Leave
- Tonkatsu (Tohn-kah-tsoo) – breaded and fried pork cutlet, find at Tonkatsu Maisen Aoyama Honten, average cost ¥1,200 (USD $10)
- Yakitori (Yah-kee-tee) – grilled chicken skewers, find at Toriki, average cost ¥500 (USD $4)
- Tempura (Tem-poo-rah) – deep-fried seafood and vegetables, find at <em(Tempura Kondo, average cost ¥2,000 (USD $18)
- Sushi (Soo-shee) – vinegared rice and raw fish, find at Sushi Saito, average cost ¥5,000 (USD $45)
- Ramen (Rah-men) – noodle soup, find at Ichiran, average cost ¥890 (USD $8)
- Udon (Oo-dohn) – thick wheat flour noodles, find at Tsurutontan, average cost ¥1,000 (USD $9)
- Gyoza (Gyoh-zah) – pan-fried dumplings, find at Gyoza no Ohsho, average cost ¥500 (USD $4)
- Onigiri (Oh-nee-gee-ree) – triangular rice balls, find at 7-Eleven, average cost ¥100 (USD $1)
Street Food Guide: Where, What & How Much
Top 3 street food areas: Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Asakusa. Try Takoyaki at Gindaco in Shibuya, Yakitori at Toriki in Shinjuku, and Ningyo-yaki at Nakamise Shopping Street in Asakusa. Average cost ¥500-¥1,000 (USD $4-9). Hygiene tip: always check the food handler’s gloves and utensils.
Where to Eat: By Budget
Street Food & Markets
Price per meal: ¥500-¥1,000 (USD $4-9). Example dishes: Takoyaki, Yakitori, Onigiri. Neighborhoods: Shibuya, Shinjuku, Asakusa.
Local Neighborhood Spots
Price per meal: ¥1,000-¥3,000 (USD $9-28). Example dishes: Tonkatsu, Tempura, Udon. Neighborhoods: Shimokitazawa, Kichijoji, Daikanyama.
Tourist-Friendly Mid-Range
Price per meal: ¥3,000-¥6,000 (USD $28-55). Example dishes: Sushi, Ramen, Gyoza. Neighborhoods: Shibuya, Harajuku, Roppongi.
Worth-the-Splurge Restaurants
Price per meal: ¥10,000-¥20,000 (USD $90-180). Example dishes: Kaiseki, Tempura, Sushi. Neighborhoods: Ginza, Roppongi, Shibuya.
Vegetarian, Vegan & Allergy-Friendly Options
Assessment: moderate. Useful phrases: Bejitarian desu (I’m a vegetarian), Byōnin desu (I have an allergy). Safe dishes: Tofu, Tempura, Onigiri. Apps: Tabelog, <em%Hungry.
What Locals Actually Drink
Non-alcoholic drinks: Green Tea (¥500, USD $4), Ramune (¥200, USD $2). Local alcoholic drinks: Sake (¥1,000, USD $9), Shochu (¥500, USD $4). What not to drink: tap water.
Food Etiquette & Practical Tips
Tipping norms: 5-10% at high-end restaurants. Dining hours: 11:30am-2:30pm, 5:30pm-10:30pm. Reservation culture: recommended for popular restaurants. Cultural rules: wait for the host to start eating, don’t leave your chopsticks standing upright.
Pro Tip: Always try to sit at the counter at a sushi restaurant, it’s a more authentic experience and you can watch the chefs prepare your food.
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, try a Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku, it’s a bizarre and entertaining show.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask for help or recommendations from locals, they’re usually happy to assist and give you insider tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Tokyo for food?
The best time to visit Tokyo for food is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is mild and the food festivals are in full swing.
How much does a meal cost in Tokyo?
A meal in Tokyo can cost anywhere from ¥500 (USD $4) for street food to ¥20,000 (USD $180) for a high-end restaurant.
What are the must-try dishes in Tokyo?
The must-try dishes in Tokyo are Sushi, Ramen, Udon, and Tempura, which can be found at various restaurants and markets throughout the city.
How do I navigate the Tokyo food scene as a vegetarian?
Navigating the Tokyo food scene as a vegetarian can be challenging, but there are many restaurants and cafes that offer vegetarian options, and you can also ask for help from locals or use food apps to find suitable options.
Plan a Foodie Trip to Tokyo
Ready to start planning your foodie trip to Tokyo? Use our free AI trip planner to get personalized recommendations and itineraries. Don’t forget to check out our other articles on Tokyo, including our food guide and travel tips.