Tokyo Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience

Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Tokyo. Your complete guide to dining in Tokyo.

ByFun Around Me Team
5 min read

Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Tokyo! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Tokyo has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Tokyo's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Tokyo like a true food lover.

Key Takeaways

  • Tokyo offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
  • Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
  • Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
  • Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
  • Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere

Must-Try Restaurants

From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Tokyo.

Ise Sueyoshi

Highly rated Japanese in Tokyo with 4.9 stars from 357 reviews.

📍 Japan, 〒106-0031 Tokyo, Minato City, Nishiazabu, 4-chōme−2−１５ 水野ビル 3F

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine

Ninja Tokyo

Highly rated Japanese in Tokyo with 4.5 stars from 1252 reviews.

📍 Japan, 〒100-0004 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Ōtemachi, 2-chōme−2−１ 新大手町ビル地下1階

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine

CENSU TOKYO

Highly rated Japanese in Tokyo with 4.7 stars from 196 reviews.

📍 2-chōme-12-9 Jingūmae, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine

NOBU Tokyo

Highly rated Japanese in Tokyo with 4.3 stars from 1105 reviews.

📍 Japan, 〒105-0001 Tokyo, Minato City, Toranomon, 4-chōme−1−２８ １Ｆ

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine

Sushi Yuu

Highly rated Sushi in Tokyo with 4.8 stars from 453 reviews.

📍 Japan, 〒106-0031 Tokyo, Minato City, Nishiazabu, 1-chōme−4−１５ 寿司勇

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Sushi cuisine

Tapas Molecular Bar

Highly rated Japanese in Tokyo with 4.6 stars from 331 reviews.

📍 2-chōme-1-1 Nihonbashimuromachi, Chuo City, Tokyo 103-8328, Japan

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine

MAZ

Highly rated Restaurant in Tokyo with 4.5 stars from 167 reviews.

📍 Japan, 〒102-0094 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Kioichō, 1−１−３ 東京ガーデンテラス 3F

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Tokyo Boat

Highly rated Japanese in Tokyo with 4.4 stars from 128 reviews.

📍 4750 Alabama Rd #101, Roswell, GA 30075, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine

Den

Highly rated Japanese in Tokyo with 4.4 stars from 313 reviews.

📍 Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya, Jingūmae, 2-chōme−3−１８ 建築家会館ＪＩＡ館

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine

Teppan Baby

Highly rated Japanese in Tokyo with 4.7 stars from 3395 reviews.

📍 Japan, 〒160-0021 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Kabukichō, 1-chōme−17−４ Pocket Building, B1F

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine

CEDROS

Highly rated Seafood in Tokyo with 4.7 stars from 393 reviews.

📍 Japan, 〒150-0021 Tokyo, Shibuya, Ebisunishi, 1-chōme−32−３ Ｔｒａｄｇａｒｄ代官山 Ｄ

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Seafood cuisine

Downtown B's Indian Kitchen, Tokyo

Highly rated Indian in Tokyo with 4.7 stars from 1613 reviews.

📍 3-chōme-4-2 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0032, Japan

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Indian cuisine

Street Food & Food Markets

Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Tokyo.

Fish Market Tsukiji Outer Market

Highly rated International in Tokyo with 4.2 stars from 55215 reviews.

📍 Japan, 〒104-0045 Tokyo, Chuo City, Tsukiji, 4-chōme−16 および６丁目一部

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Ameyoko market

Highly rated International in Tokyo with 4.3 stars from 9991 reviews.

📍 4-chōme-7-10 Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005, Japan

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Toyosu Market

Highly rated International in Tokyo with 3.6 stars from 12097 reviews.

📍 6-chōme-6-1 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061, Japan

  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Nakamise Shopping Street

Highly rated International in Tokyo with 4.3 stars from 14636 reviews.

📍 1-chōme-36-3 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Tsukiji Nippon Fish Port Market

Highly rated International in Tokyo with 4 stars from 1147 reviews.

📍 Japan, 〒104-0045 Tokyo, Chuo City, Tsukiji, 4-chōme−16−２ 千社額棟 １階

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Nishiki Market

Highly rated International in Tokyo with 4.3 stars from 49020 reviews.

📍 Higashiuoyacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8055, Japan

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Tokyo Kuma 东京熊

Highly rated International in Tokyo with 4.4 stars from 289 reviews.

📍 3875 Venture Dr b2 - b5, Duluth, GA 30096, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Tsukiji Fish Market

Highly rated Restaurant in Tokyo with 4.6 stars from 31 reviews.

📍 6 Chome-23 Tsukiji, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Food Tours & Culinary Experiences

Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Tokyo.

Ninja Food Tours

Highly rated International in Tokyo with 5 stars from 3572 reviews.

  • •Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • •Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • •Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • •Ask your guide for local recommendations

Arigato Travel / Arigato Japan Food Tours

Highly rated International in Tokyo with 4.9 stars from 1327 reviews.

  • •Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • •Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • •Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • •Ask your guide for local recommendations

Local Guide Stars Shinjuku

Highly rated International in Tokyo with 5 stars from 358 reviews.

  • •Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • •Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • •Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • •Ask your guide for local recommendations

Oishii Food Tours

Highly rated International in Tokyo with 5 stars from 665 reviews.

  • •Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • •Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • •Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • •Ask your guide for local recommendations

Food Tours Tokyo

Highly rated International in Tokyo with 5 stars from 64 reviews.

  • •Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • •Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • •Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • •Ask your guide for local recommendations

Tokyo Free Walking Tour - Tokyo Localized

Highly rated International in Tokyo with 5 stars from 5116 reviews.

  • •Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • •Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • •Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • •Ask your guide for local recommendations

Cafes & Bakeries

Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Tokyo.

Maidreamin Shibuya Store

Highly rated Cafe in Tokyo with 4.9 stars from 9414 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 Japan, 〒150-0042 Tokyo, Shibuya, Udagawachō, 30−１ 蓬莱屋ビル B1

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Blue Bottle Coffee - Shibuya Cafe

Highly rated Cafe in Tokyo with 4.6 stars from 1420 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 1-chōme-7-3 Jinnan, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0041, Japan

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Fuglen Tokyo

Highly rated Cafe in Tokyo with 4.3 stars from 3538 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 1-chōme-16-11 Tomigaya, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-0063, Japan

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

CAFE REISSUE

Highly rated Cafe in Tokyo with 4.7 stars from 2162 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 3-chōme-25-7 Jingūmae, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Starbucks Reserve® Roastery Tokyo

Highly rated Cafe in Tokyo with 4.5 stars from 12706 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 2-chōme-19-23 Aobadai, Meguro City, Tokyo 153-0042, Japan

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Awakening Cafe

Highly rated Cafe in Tokyo with 4.8 stars from 170 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 Japan, 〒110-0014 Tokyo, Taito City, Kitaueno, 2-chōme−23−９ イチロービル 4階, Ichiro Building 4th floor

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

THE ROASTERY BY NOZY COFFEE

Highly rated Cafe in Tokyo with 4.3 stars from 2261 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 Reveur Jingumae, 5-chōme-17-13 Jingūmae, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

BONGENCOFFEE Ginza

Highly rated Cafe in Tokyo with 4.4 stars from 1702 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 2-chōme-16-3 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Local Specialties & Signature Dishes

Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Tokyo.

Signature Dish

A must-try Tokyo specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Local Delicacy

This beloved Tokyo dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Traditional Recipe

Experience the authentic taste of Tokyo with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Street Food Favorite

Discover why this Tokyo specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Regional Specialty

This iconic Tokyo creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Seasonal Treat

A Tokyo classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Classic Comfort Food

A must-try Tokyo specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Modern Fusion

This beloved Tokyo dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Artisanal Product

Experience the authentic taste of Tokyo with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Heritage Recipe

Discover why this Tokyo specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Bars & Nightlife

Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Tokyo.

Bar TRENCH

Highly rated Bar in Tokyo with 4.7 stars from 843 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 Japan, 〒150-0021 Tokyo, Shibuya, Ebisunishi, 1-chōme−5−８ １０２

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Deathmatch in Hell

Highly rated Bar in Tokyo with 4.8 stars from 503 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 Japan, 〒160-0021 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Kabukichō, 1-chōme−1−８ ゴールデン街 ３番街

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

The SG Club

Highly rated Bar in Tokyo with 4.5 stars from 1402 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 1-chōme-7-8 Jinnan, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0041, Japan

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Jeremiah

Highly rated Bar in Tokyo with 4.9 stars from 281 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 Japan, 〒160-0022 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Shinjuku, 5-chōme−4−１ 新宿Ｑフラットビル １F

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Shinjuku Golden-Gai

Highly rated Bar in Tokyo with 4.3 stars from 12000 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 Japan, 〒160-0021 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Kabukichō, 1-chōme−1−６ あかるい花園 五番街

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Swig

Highly rated Bar in Tokyo with 4.8 stars from 164 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 Villa First Shibuya, 1-chōme-6-3 Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0002, Japan

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Essential Tips

  • 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
  • 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
  • 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
  • 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
  • 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
  • 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
  • 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
  • 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
  • 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
  • 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit

Tokyo's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.

Average Price

Dining costs in Tokyo vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tokyo is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.

For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.

Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.

Most restaurants in Tokyo offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.

Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Tokyo specifically.

Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.

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