Culinary Adventures in Tokyo: From Sushi to Street Food
Tokyo is famous for its perfect blend of old traditions with latest trends, and this shows in its amazing food scene as well. Whether you crave for freshly-made sushi or the mouth-watering street food, Tokyo offers something for every food lover. In this article, I’ll take you to discover some of the best places to eat in Tokyo— from authentic, traditional places, to the trendiest restaurants in town. And the best part? They won't break the bank!
1. Restaurant Chains (Ōtoya and Yayoiken)
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Looking for an affordable but hearty meal to keep yourself going? Tokyo offers several budget-friendly options, like the well-known Sukiya and Yoshinoya. However, Ootoya and Yayoiken stand out for their wide variety of Japanese set meals called teishoku (定食). Here, you can enjoy a complete, healthy, and authentic meal for just ¥400 to ¥1000. The problem is, most of these chains are privately owned and don't come with English menus. But worry not, these menus always include pictures to help you understand the offerings, Additionally, you can always use a translation camera app like Google Translate to decipher any unfamiliar words.
2. Toriton Kaiten Zushi
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Toriton Kaintenzushi, a sushi place located in Sumida City, Oshiage, is a perfect blend of both traditional food and modern technology. Kaitenzushi (回転寿司) - or conveyor belt sushi - is a convenient and affordable type of sushi restaurant characterized by the conveyor belt that winds through the restaurant. The conveyor belt carries plates of sushi past the diners, who can take whatever they wish. The sushi price varies from ¥130 to ¥990. For more details, visit their official website at https://toriton-kita1.jp/menu/tokyo/
3. Yamataro Onigiri
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Yamataro, a small onigiri restaurant in Zoshigaya, Toshima City, Tokyo, is one of the best places to try freshly-made onigiri—the famous Japanese rice ball. Here, you can enjoy these delicious treats at an affordable price, with options ranging from ¥320 to under ¥1,000. Plus, you can choose from over 20 fillings and even combine them for a truly personalized onigiri experience.
4. Yanaka Ginza
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Down for a culinary adventure and a little stroll? Try visiting Yanaka Ginza in Yanaka, Taito City, Tokyo. This street offers a memorable experience with the captivating historic buildings, local shops, and traditional Japanese snacks vendors. Starting from a budget-friendly ¥300, you can enjoy various type of street foods, such as Takoyaki, beef mince croquettes, cat-tail-shaped doughnuts, ice creams, and onigiri. Many YouTubers have documented their visits here, so you can find numerous videos showcasing the market's atmosphere.
5. Ueno Ameyoko
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There are so many markets in Tokyo, Ueno Ameyoko Market near Ueno Station stands out for its incredible street food scene. This bustling market offers a wide array of delicious food to savor, with prices ranging from ¥100 to less than ¥2,000. Don't miss trying takoyaki (octopus balls), taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes), yakisoba (stir-fried noodles), ramen (noodle soup), and karaage (fried chicken).
6. Seijo Seika
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Let's end our Tokyo food tour with a steaming bowl of ramen! Seijo Seika, a ramen restaurant that opened near Roka Kouen station in June 2020, has quickly gained a loyal following. Open daily for lunch (11:00 AM to 3:00 PM) and dinner (5:00 PM to 11:00 PM), this restaurant offers a delicious and convenient option for any ramen enthusiast. Seijo Seika's well-deserved hype comes from its inclusion in the Michelin Bib Gourmand Guide in 2021. So, if you're looking for a taste of Michelin-approved ramen without breaking the bank, Seijo Seika is a must-try!
In Tokyo, the art of traditional food preparation is a cherished practice, offering a taste of authenticity in a rapidly modernizing world. Embracing Tokyo's traditional food is a delightful way to experience the unique blend of history and innovation that defines the city.
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