12 Types of Japanese Dishes To Try in Tokyo

Asian cuisine is known for its variety, with Japanese dishes always being a favorite. While Japanese restaurants can be found worldwide, there’s a unique experience when trying these dishes in Japan itself.

Tokyo, in particular, is a culinary paradise with various districts offering a wide range of dishes to explore.

From street food to five-star restaurants, Tokyo offers a diverse range of dishes to satisfy every Japanese culinary lover’s palate. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to choose. There are also many longstanding restaurants in Tokyo worth exploring.

To help you navigate this culinary landscape, we’ve compiled a list of 12 types of Japanese dishes in Tokyo for you to try.

Main Dish

1. Edomae Sushi

Edomae Sushi, originating from Tokyo, is a must-try for sushi lovers. This fresh seafood dish has been recognized as one of the most delicious foods in the world by CNN.

Using fresh raw fish on vinegar-seasoned rice, Edomae sushi stays true to its traditional roots. For the best sushi experience, visit Sushi Dai at the Tsukiji fish market, where you can enjoy high-end Edomae Sushi for around $27 per portion.

Sushi Dai is located at 6 Chome-5-1 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061.

2. Shoyu Ramen

Shoyu Ramen, a popular type of ramen in Tokyo, features a clear brown broth flavored with soy sauce. Aoshima Shokudo is a recommended spot to enjoy this dish, with homemade noodles and delicious toppings.

You can find Aoshima Shokudo at 3 Chome-20-1 Kanda Sakumacho, Chiyoda City.

3. Monjayaki

Monjayaki, a variation of Okonomiyaki, is a must-try in Tokyo. This dish, known for its watery consistency, can be found in abundance in the Tsukishima area. Okame Souhonen is a recommended spot offering a variety of Monjayaki options.

Okame Souhonen is located at 3-17-3 Tsukishima, Chuo-ku, Tokyo.

4. Yakitori

Yakitori, a classic chicken skewer dish with sweet soy sauce, is a popular option in Tokyo. For a high-end experience, visit Birdland for Michelin-starred Yakitori. For a more budget-friendly option, Yakitori Tetsu is a great choice.

You can find Birdland at Exit C6 Ginza Station, Tokyo.

Yakitori Tetsu is located 160 m from Shibuya Center-Gai.

5. Soba

Another popular noodle dish in Tokyo is soba, made from a blend of buckwheat and wheat flour. Soba noodles have a darker color and unique taste compared to ramen.

Soba can be enjoyed hot or cold, depending on personal preference.

When in Tokyo, make sure to visit Namiki Yabusoba in Asakusa, a famous restaurant where the queue starts forming even before opening. The service is excellent, despite the mostly elderly staff.

Tempura, a popular Japanese dish made from deep-fried seafood or vegetables, can be found in various places in Tokyo. For a Michelin-starred experience, try Tempura Kondo in Ginza.

Sashimi, another fresh seafood delicacy, is a must-try in Tokyo. Head to Ame Nochi Hare Aoyama in Shibuya for beautifully presented sashimi.

For dessert, don’t miss out on Dango, traditional Japanese sweet rice flour balls. Visit Habutae Dango in Higashi Nippori for an authentic experience.

Mochi, made from sticky rice flour, is another popular dessert in Tokyo. Check out Ginza Akebono for a variety of mochi fillings.

Try Matcha Ice Cream Level 7 at Suzukien in Asakusa for a unique matcha dessert experience.

Sake, the famous Japanese alcoholic drink made from fermented rice, is a must-try when visiting traditional Japanese restaurants.

Enjoy traditional Matcha, green tea powder brewed without any additional flavors, at various ceremonies and establishments in Tokyo. What types of Japanese dishes do you find yourself constantly craving for? Please rewrite this sentence.