15 perfect restaurants in Tokyo, Japan
Welcome to the captivating culinary capital of the world! In Tokyo, where food is practically a religion, we present to you the crème de la crème of dining establishments. These culinary gems will send your taste buds to paradise faster than you can say "arigato." So buckle up and prepare for a wild gastronomic adventure where sushi reigns supreme, ramen reaches new heights, and tofu dazzles even the most dedicated carnivores. Prepare to be blown away by these 15 culinary marvels that will leave you begging for seconds (and possibly a new wardrobe).
Save destination1. L'Effervescence
2-chōme-26-4 Nishiazabu, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0031, Japan
Welcome to L'Effervescence, Tokyo's culinary temple where taste buds tango with imagination, and hunger is swiftly swayed by an orchestra of flavors. Situated amid the bustling streets of Nishi-Azabu, this restaurant seamlessly merges tradition with innovation, offering a gastronomic journey that will leave travelers swooning and foodies weak-kneed. Prepare to be dazzled by their artistry as they transform fresh ingredients into edible masterpieces that'll make your mouth water and your Instagram followers green with envy - trust me, your taste buds will want a standing ovation at the end of the meal!
Learn more2. Sushi Yoshitake
Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 7-chōme−8−１３ Brown Place９Ｆ
Welcome to Sushi Yoshitake, where raw fish reigns and time-honored traditions unite with a sprinkle of whimsy. Nestled in the heart of vibrant Tokyo, this culinary gem offers a delightfully amusing experience that even left my octogenarian aunt grinning like a giddy schoolgirl. From the moment you witness the elegantly crafted plates exhibited by the sushi chef, it's a surreal game of "guess the sushi," where every bite could either fulfill your wildest seafood dreams or provoke thoughts like "I never knew eel could taste like strawberry bubblegum."
Learn more3. Sukiyabashi Jiro
Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 4-chōme−2−１５ 塚本総業ビルB1階
Nestled discreetly in the heart of Tokyo, Sukiyabashi Jiro is the gastronomic temple for sushi enthusiasts. As you wander past the tiny entrance, don't be deterred by its humble appearance, for inside lies a culinary wonderland that will make your taste buds flip like somersaulting dolphins. Jiro himself, a legendary sushi master, leads the symphony of freshly caught fish, transforming their delicate flavors into edible poetry, leaving you to wonder if you've just tasted a piece of heaven or if unicorns have secretly been curing seafood for centuries.
Learn more4. Tokyo Saryo
1-chōme-34-15 Kamiuma, Setagaya City, Tokyo 154-0011, Japan
Welcome to Tokyo Saryo, a charming little teahouse tucked away in the bustling streets of Tokyo. This hidden gem will transport you to a world of tranquility, away from the chaos of the city. With its minimalist decor, you'll feel like you're sipping tea on the moon – if the moon happened to have an exquisite selection of Japanese teas and pastries. So, grab your space suit and get ready for a celestial tea experience that's out of this world!
Learn more5. Ginza Kojyu
Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 5-chōme−4−８ 銀座カリオカビル 4F
Welcome to Ginza Kojyu, a place where time travel is possible! Step into this elegant establishment and be transported back to ancient Japan, where culinary artistry meets gastronomic wizardry. Prepare to have your taste buds tickled and your senses dazzled as you embark on a journey through the meticulous world of Kojyu's master chef. Each dish is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted with the care and precision usually reserved for building skyscrapers or assembling IKEA furniture on a Sunday afternoon.
Learn more6. Nihonryori RyuGin
Japan, 〒100-0006 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Yūrakuchō, 1-chōme−1−２ 東京ミッドタウン日比谷 7階
Welcome to Nihonryori RyuGin, the culinary haven where traditional Japanese cuisine meets a dash of culinary wizardry! Hidden away in the vibrant streets of Tokyo, this quirky gastronomic destination is a treat for your taste buds and your sense of adventure. Be prepared to embark on a flavorful rollercoaster ride as the talented chefs take you on a whimsical journey through Japan's rich culinary heritage, leaving you pleasantly confused about what you just devoured, but in the most delicious way possible!
Learn more7. Kyubey
8-chōme-7-6 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
Welcome to Tokyo, where quirky characters roam the streets, and none is as peculiar or captivating as Kyubey! This charming interdimensional creature, fondly known as the "Cat-bunny hybrid," is the ultimate star of the city. Don't be fooled by its fluffy appearance; Kyubey is in fact a mystical being that offers magical contracts to unsuspecting middle school girls. So, keep your eyes peeled and prepare for an adventure like no other as you encounter this purrfectly enigmatic mascot!
Learn more8. Ryugin
Japan, 〒100-0006 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Yūrakuchō, 1-chōme−1−２ 東京ミッドタウン日比谷 7階
Welcome to Ryugin, the culinary oasis in the heart of bustling Tokyo. If you're craving a dining experience that resembles a well-choreographed symphony, look no further. The moment you step into this gastronomic haven, be prepared to have your taste buds gleefully kidnapped and taken on a joyride through Chef Yamamoto's imaginative creations. From whimsical presentations that defy gravity to flavors that make your eyes widen with amazement, Ryugin promises an awe-inspiring journey that will leave you both sated and marvelously entertained.
Learn more9. Ginza Shinohara
2-chōme-8-17 Ginza, 中央区 Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
Welcome to Ginza Shinohara, where you can find everything from high-end fashion to quirky gadgets, and probably a few things you didn't even know you needed! This bustling district in Tokyo is the ultimate shopping paradise, overflowing with stylish stores that will leave your wallet quivering in anticipation. Don't be surprised if you suddenly find yourself surrounded by impeccably dressed locals, strutting down the streets like they just stepped out of a fashion magazine - it's like a never-ending catwalk show here!
Learn more10. Sushi Tokami
Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 8-chōme−2−１０ 銀座誠和シルバービル B1F
Step into the delightful world of Sushi Tokami, located in the heart of Tokyo, where delectable sushi creations await your taste buds. Prepare to embark on a gastronomical journey that will make your belly do the happy dance and your friends question your sanity for the joyful moans you'll no doubt produce. Be warned, however, this place is so good that you might end up selling your computer, car, and maybe even your soul just to afford another visit.
Learn more11. Umegaoka Sushi No Midori Sohonten
1-chōme-20-7 Umegaoka, Setagaya City, Tokyo 154-0022, Japan
Welcome to Umegaoka Sushi No Midori Sohonten, where the tastebuds of sushi lovers dance their way to happiness! This bustling Tokyo gem is a sushi paradise that puts a twinkle in the eye of any discerning sushi connoisseur. From the moment you step into this lively joint, prepare for an experience where glorious slivers of fish catapult from the sushi bar, eager to embark on a thrilling journey down your throat.
Learn more12. Narisawa
Japan, 〒107-0062 Tokyo, Minato City, Minamiaoyama, 2-chōme−6−１５ 南青山ガーデンコート
Welcome to Narisawa, where culinary dreams come true and taste buds go on a rollercoaster ride! This exquisite restaurant in Tokyo has a knack for combining wildly creative flavors with artistic presentation. Be prepared to question your existence as each dish (almost too beautiful to eat) whispers, "I may be too splendid for mortal consumption." So, don your fanciest attire and prepare for an unforgettable dining experience that may leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about food.
Learn more13. Sushi Saito
Japan, 〒106-0032 Tokyo, Minato City, Roppongi, 1-chōme−4−５, ARK Hills South Tower, 1F
Welcome to Sushi Saito, where it's not just a meal, it's a journey into the realm of flavor! Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, this sushi haven is famous for its mouthwatering delights that will have your taste buds dancing like nobody's watching. With each bite, you'll be transported to a realm where fish and rice embrace like long-lost lovers, leaving you wondering if life can ever taste this good again.
Learn more14. Den
Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Jingūmae, 2-chōme−3−１８ 建築家会館ＪＩＡ館
Welcome to Den in Tokyo, a foodie's paradise where taste buds are sure to embark on an unforgettable adventure! Tucked away in the bustling streets of Tokyo, Den is a whimsical culinary den that will transport you to a delectable wonderland. Prepare to be immersed in a quirky atmosphere where the aroma of mouthwatering dishes blends harmoniously with the charm of mischievous, yet utterly delightful, culinary surprises.
Learn more15. Matsukawa
Japan, 〒107-0052 Tokyo, Minato City, Akasaka, 1-chōme−11−６ 赤坂テラスハウス 1F
Welcome to Matsukawa, Tokyo's best-kept secret, where it seems like time paused for a matcha-infused break. This charming district has a knack for effortlessly blending traditional charm with a sprinkle of modern zing. Wander through its maze-like streets, stumbling upon cozy tea houses, quirky cat cafes, and shops that have enough stationery to satiate even Marie Kondo's wildest organizational dreams.
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Tokyo, Japan by plane is to fly into Tokyo's Narita International Airport, which is located approximately 60 km east of Tokyo city center. Several airlines operate direct and connecting flights to Narita from major cities around the world, including New York, London, Sydney, and Singapore.
Car
Driving from all around Japan to Tokyo can be an option, however, it is not advisable due to heavy traffic during peak hours, as well as limited parking space in the city center. If driving is still the preferred option, highways such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Expressway take you straight to the main attraction sites.
Train
There are several train options for travelling to Tokyo, but the best way is to take the shinkansen, or bullet train. The shinkansen provides high-speed rail service connecting major cities in Japan, including Tokyo. The train departs from Shin-Osaka Station, which is located in southern Osaka.
Boat
While there is no direct sea route to Tokyo, ferries are available from cities such as Osaka and Kobe to Tokyo's Harumi ferry terminal, located about 2 km southeast of Tokyo Bay. The journey by ferry takes around 17 hours from Osaka and 25 hours from Kobe, but offers beautiful oceanic views.
Bus
The best way to get to Tokyo by bus is to take a long-distance bus from major cities in Japan, such as Osaka, Kyoto or Nagoya. The bus journey from these cities takes around 6-9 hours to reach Tokyo. The buses usually depart from the main bus terminal in each city.
