Tokyo Food Blog

Tokyo’s food scene runs deep. From street food and late-night izakayas to vegan finds and everyday classics, this is where we share what’s worth your time — and why.

What to Do in Ueno: A Day of Museums, Parks, and Tokyo’s Grittiest Market

Few Tokyo neighborhoods contradict themselves as well as Ueno. One side is cultural Tokyo at its most refined — sprawling parks, world-class museums, quiet paths built for wandering. A few minutes' walk away, that calm gives way to Ameyoko: loud, crowded, unmistakably rough around the edges, and all the better for it. Most visitors pick one side or the other. Here's how to spend a full day getting both.

Frank Striegl

Oct 11

Close-up of a hand-held sushi hand roll with glossy salmon roe, salmon, and rice wrapped in nori against a blurred background

Onigiri in Tokyo: A Guide to Japan’s Rice Balls, Fillings and Where to Try Them

From classic fillings to creative combinations, onigiri comes in countless varieties across Japan. Learn about the history of this beloved Japanese staple and find out where to try some of the best onigiri in Tokyo.

Makayla Morovich

Oct 4

What to Eat in Ginza, from Coffee to Ramen

What to Eat in Ginza: A Full Day of Food Beyond the Boutiques

What to eat in Ginza: depachika food halls, prefecture antenna shops, old-school coffee, and ramen for every budget in Tokyo's luxury district.

Frank Striegl

Sep 18

Tokyo's Best Yakitori Alleys: Where to Go for Smoke, Skewers, and Atmosphere

Tokyo's best yakitori alleys, from Shinjuku's Omoide Yokocho to Yurakucho's smoky underpass. Three spots for skewers and real local atmosphere.

Frank Striegl

Sep 12

That Little Red Plum You Keep Seeing in Japan: A Beginner’s Guide to Umeboshi

From sweet and fruity to intensely tangy, umeboshi brings Japan’s beloved ume plum to life in countless delicious ways. Learn about its history, unique flavors, and where to try umeboshi in Tokyo.

Makayla Morovich

Sep 7

Black bowl with a gourmet dish: sauced meat topped with mushrooms and avocado, served over red and yellow purees on a wood table.

Hamburg in Tokyo: 3 Japanese Hamburg Steak Restaurants You Need to Try

Japan’s Beloved Hamburg: What It Is & Where to Try It in Tokyo — 3 Recommendations

Makayla Morovich

Sep 1

Latte art coffee in a red cup and a cinnamon-topped iced coffee in a jar on a dark tabletop.

Where to Find Great Coffee in Tokyo: 6 Shimokitazawa Coffee Shops

Explore the vibrant coffee Shimokitazawa scene with our guide to 6 must-visit coffee Shimokitazawa shops in Tokyo.

Makayla Morovich

Aug 21

Hand holding a gold Suntory Highball can in a store aisle, with blurred liquor shelves behind and Japanese text on the label.

What Is a Highball? Understanding Japan’s Favorite Whisky Drink

Discovering the Japanese highball. Explore why this refreshing whisky drink is a staple in Japanese nightlife and dining culture.

Makayla Morovich

Aug 16

Tokyo Late Night Ramen in Roppongi at Aka Noren

Tokyo Late-Night Ramen: 5 Shops Open After Midnight

Tokyo late-night ramen doesn't stop at midnight. Here are 5 shops open into the early hours, from fiery Shinjuku bowls to a Ginza yatai classic.

Frank Striegl

Aug 2

Tokyo Standing Soba: 3 Local Shops Worth Visiting

Tokyo standing soba is cheap, fast, and authentic. Here are 3 local shops worth visiting, from classic to fusion noodles.

Frank Striegl

Jul 18

Bowl of tempura shrimp and eggplant over rice on a wooden table, with a small dipping dish beside it.

Tempura in Asakusa: Classic, Modern, and Fancy

Discover Asakusa tempura's evolution from classic Edo-style to modern twists and fancy dining. Explore Asakusa tempura's rich culinary history on your next trip to Tokyo.

Makayla Morovich

Jul 7