We don’t need to tell you that Tokyo is the destination for people who travel to eat. But with izakayas around every corner, six-seat soba shops down hidden alleys, pizza and gelato that’s better than what you’ll find in Italy (or Brooklyn), and high-quality sushi even at the convenience stores.…well, it can be hard to know where to look first. That’s where we come in. Our list of must-eats, from Tokyo-obsessed chefs around the world and on-the-ground locals, will give you a starting point (and help you overcome the language barrier). Start here, then spend some time wandering the city, stopping for every onigiri and daifukumochi you see.
Tokyo
Where the Chefs Go
tokyo
Ohitsuzen Tanbo
With rice this good, you almost forget about the fresh fish that tops it (almost).
Mikawa Zezankyo
As good as tempura gets.
Where the Locals Eat
Tenkiyo
Budget-friendly tempura below the buzz of Tokyo Station.
Ifuu
Come to this izayaka for the sake, stay for the seasonal fish.
Nata de Cristiano
As close as you’ll get to Portugal without leaving Tokyo.
Kushiwakamaru
Meat on a stick! And plenty of beer, too.
Anda Gyoza
A vegetable-forward respite from tempura and sushi.
Suzuran
Ramen as a work of art.
Nemuro Hanamaru Ginza
The sushi conveyor belt you‘ve been dreaming of.
Kitsuneya
The real reason to go to Tsukiji fish market is not fish at all.
Bloody Angle
Classic cocktails in a romantic rose-tinged setting.
Japanese Ice Ouca
Luscious Italian-style gelato meets uniquely Japanese flavors.
Tonki
Deep-fried pork cutlets, with no frills or fuss
Butagumi
Pork cutlets taken to a higher playing field.
Fellows
American burgers that are better than burgers in America.
Shin Udon
This udon will ruin you for all other noodles. So long, ramen. See ya, soba.
Shirube
A bustling, all-are-welcome pub where the mackerel’s as good as the fried chicken.
Kikanbo
Hellishly fiery ramen that will put your spice tolerance to the test.
Nunotsunesarashina
By-the-books soba in a fittingly classic environment.
Café de l‘Ambre
What people are talking about when they praise Japanese coffee.
Still Hungry for Tokyo?
Before You Go to Tokyo, Learn These Etiquette Tips
But if you stick your chopsticks straight into your rice, you're on your own.