Tokyo is an incredible city to visit. It’s difficult to explain or get into details, but its unique culture, lively atmosphere, size, transportation, and, of course, food make it an experience of a lifetime. Tokyo is also an epicenter of culinary delights.
Whether you’re a foodie, an explorer, or a travel junkie, the unique food experiences in Tokyo are sure to captivate your senses. As we all know, food is a major part of traveling and exploring, and it’s a must in a place like Japan or Tokyo.
This guide will take you on a flavorful adventure through Tokyo, offering insights into what the locals eat and cultural traditions, as well as tips for making the most of your food exploration.
In a hurry? Here are our top food experiences in Tokyo
– Explore Tokyo’s tea and sake culture: Enjoy a unique walking tour and tasting experience around one of the most prominent neighborhoods of Tokyo. BOOK NOW!
– Learn the art of sushi and sashimi at Tsukiji Fish Market: Witness history at one of the largest fish markets in the world where you’ll get to learn all about sushi and sashimi. BOOK NOW!
– Learn how to make Mochi and Japanese Sweets: Learn more about the traditional Japanese sweet treats and how to make them. BOOK NOW!
Here’s an overview:
The Culinary Epicenter of Tokyo
Tokyo is not just Japan’s bustling capital; it’s also a global culinary hub. In the city, you will find a blend of traditional Japanese cuisine and innovative culinary techniques in Michelin restaurants and fine dining spots.
But Tokyo’s food culture isn’t confined to high-end restaurants—street food vendors, cozy ramen shops, and family-run eateries add to its rich tapestry.
What the Locals Eat
Tokyo locals have a rich and diverse food palette. From freshly rolled sushi to steaming bowls of ramen, the local cuisine is great to explore.
The locals typically start their day with a simple breakfast of rice, miso soup, and omelet, and sometimes grilled fish. Of course, with globalization, you will also find bread, jams, porridge, etc., at the local tables. Lunch often consists of bento boxes filled with an assortment of delights like tempura, sashimi, and tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelette).
Dinner is where it gets interesting. Many locals enjoy izakaya (Japanese pub) culture, sharing small plates of yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), edamame, and other snacks over drinks. Street food is also popular, with favorites like takoyaki (octopus balls), taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries filled with sweet red bean paste), and crepes adding to the everyday Tokyo culinary experience.
Related read: The Ultimate Guide to Street Food in Japan
Not to Miss Food Experiences in Tokyo
Tokyo’s Tea and Sake Culture
Tea and sake are integral to Tokyo’s culinary landscape. Matcha tea ceremonies are a must-experience, where the preparation and presentation of matcha (powdered green tea) are performed with amazing attention to detail and precision.
Sake, on the other hand, is Japan’s traditional alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice. It is enjoyed both hot and cold and is commonly paired with sushi and sashimi.
Visiting a tea house or a sake brewery offers a deep insight into these important cultural practices.
Indulge your taste buds with a unique sake tasting experience led by expert sommelier Yuma in the vibrant Shinjuku neighborhood of Tokyo. Sample five different varieties of sake as you stroll through the bustling streets, accompanied by perfectly paired snacks and small dishes that enhance each sip.
- Embark on a one-of-a-kind walking tour and tasting adventure in Tokyo’s bustling neighborhood.
- Discover the rich history and flavors of Japan’s fiery liquor with a knowledgeable sommelier by your side.
- Treat your palate to a selection of premium sake and delectable bites, immersing yourself in the art of Japanese cuisine.
- Savor the finest products Japan has to offer and enjoy an evening filled with culinary delights.
Price: €72 per guest
Duration: 2 hours
Free cancelation up to 48 hours before
The Art of Sushi and Sashimi
Sushi and sashimi are probably the most renowned aspects of Japanese cuisine. Rest assured, it’s not the sushi you are familiar with from Europe or the US.
In Tokyo, you can experience them at their finest. Tsukiji Outer Market and the newer Toyosu Market are iconic spots where you can witness the art of sushi-making. Sushi chefs in Tokyo undergo years of rigorous training to perfect the delicate balance of flavors in each piece. Sashimi, thinly sliced raw fish, is another staple, often served with soy sauce and wasabi.
Learning the subtle differences between various types of fish and their preparation can be a delightful educational experience.
When it comes to seafood, get ready for an unforgettable adventure at the markets with a top-notch guide and fish market pro. You’ll be sampling the absolute best offerings from the 200 different vendors at the market. Get ready to feast your eyes (and taste buds) on a wide array of fish and seafood, and prepare to be amazed by the massive scale of these Tokyo markets that supply seafood to restaurants worldwide!
- Immerse yourself in history at one of the world’s largest fish markets, boasting over 480 varieties of seafood!
- Embark on a guided tour that delves into the market’s rich history and introduces you to the finest local vendors.
- Indulge in a diverse selection, as this guided tour of the ocean’s treasures also includes delicious local dishes.
- Marvel at the dedication and innovation of Tokyo’s residents, who continuously adapt to meet the demands of one of the world’s largest seafood markets!
Price: €83 per guest
Duration: 2.5 hours
Free cancelation up to 48 hours before
Sweet Mochi: A Must-Try Treat
One of the sweetest delights you absolutely must indulge in while exploring Tokyo is mochi! This traditional Japanese rice cake, made from glutinous rice, is delicious and comes in various flavors and fillings, making it an exciting treat for your taste buds. From the classic sweet red bean paste to modern twists like matcha or strawberry, each bite of mochi offers a delightful chewiness that is simply irresistible.
You can find mochi in vibrant shops throughout the city, and you can also learn how to make it at this cooking class with Miyuki, a local host. Making it from scratch will not be a short process or an easy one, so the dough is prepared, but the host delivers a great show and explanation. Don’t worry; you will also get a recipe.
Don’t miss out on this delightful experience; mochi is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of Japanese culture and craftsmanship that will leave you craving more!
This fun 2.5-hour class kicks off with a brief talk about the cultural significance of mochi.
Then, the instructor will guide you through creating two types of mochi desserts and two pieces of nerikiri wagashi. First up, you’ll master the art of crafting three-colored dango (mochi balls on skewers). Next, get ready to make the delightful strawberry daifuku, a tasty mochi treat with a strawberry nestled in sweet bean paste.
In the second part of the class, you’ll learn how to create a seasonal design for the nerikiri wagashi. While the dough is already prepared and colored, you’ll receive the recipe and a tutorial video on how to make it.
To top it all off, you’ll get to savor these delectable treats with a soothing bowl of Matcha green tea at the end of the session.
Price: €88 per guest
Duration: 2.5 hours
Free cancelation up to 48 hours before
Practical Tips for Exploring Tokyo’s Food Scene
Navigating language barriers
Tokyo’s vibrant food scene is best enjoyed with a few practical tips in mind.
First, navigating language barriers can be challenging but manageable. Many restaurants have picture menus or plastic food displays outside their establishments to help you decide.
Learning a few basic Japanese phrases (like “sumimasen” for “excuse me” and “arigatou” for “thank you”) can also go a long way in enhancing your dining experience.
Greetings and General Phrases
- こんにちは (konnichiwa): Hello
- すみません (sumimasen): Excuse me
- お願いします (onegaishimasu): Please
- ありがとうございます (arigatō gozaimasu): Thank you
Ordering Food and Drinks
- これをください (kore o kudasai): I’ll have this
- … をください (… o kudasai): I’ll have … (e.g., beef, ramen)
- … はありますか (… wa arimasu ka): Do you have …? (e.g., vegetarian options, spicy food)
- 大盛り (ōmori): Large portion
- 小盛り (komori): Small portion
- ご飯 (gohan): Rice
- 麺 (men): Noodles
- 飲み物 (nomimono): Drink
- 水 (mizu): Water
- ビール (bīru): Beer
- お酒 (osake): Alcohol
- ジュース (jūsu): Juice
- コーヒー (kōhī): Coffee
- お茶 (ocha): Tea
Asking for Recommendations
- おすすめは何ですか (osusume wa nan desu ka): What do you recommend?
- 人気のあるものは何ですか (niniki no aru mono wa nan desu ka): What’s popular?
Dietary Restrictions
- 私はベジタリアンです (watashi wa bejitarian desu): I’m a vegetarian.
- 私はアレルギーがあります (watashi wa arerugī ga arimasu): I have allergies.
- … は入っていますか (… wa haitte imasu ka): Does it contain …? (e.g., seafood, nuts)
Expressing Gratitude
- ごちそうさまでした (gochisōsama deshita): Thank you for the meal.
Asking and paying the bill
- お勘定をお願いします (Okaikei wo onegaishimasu) – Can I have the bill, please?
- お会計は、クレジットカードで払えますか？(Okaikei wa, kurejitto kaado de haraemasu ka?) – Can I pay the bill with a credit card?
By learning these essential phrases, you can confidently navigate ordering food and drinks at restaurants in Japan and enhance your overall travel experience.
Related read:
Eating at Japanese Restaurants: What You Need to Know
Useful Japanese Travel Phrases to Learn Before Visiting
Best times to visit popular spots
Timing is everything when it comes to food in Tokyo. Popular eateries often have long wait times, especially during peak hours. It’s best to visit famous sushi places early in the morning or late at night to avoid the rush.
For street food markets, aim to go during mid-morning or mid-afternoon to beat the crowds, or just join a local guide and make your life easier.
Food tours and cooking classes
Consider joining a food tour or taking a cooking class to immerse yourself fully in Tokyo’s culinary culture. Food tours offer a guided experience through bustling food markets, hidden eateries, and historic sites. They often provide behind-the-scenes access and insights that you wouldn’t get on your own.
Cooking classes, on the other hand, give you hands-on experience in making traditional Japanese dishes like sushi, ramen, or tempura. You’ll not only enjoy the fruits of your labor but also take home new skills to impress your friends and family.
When Traveling in Tokyo: Go For Foodie Experiences!
Exploring Tokyo’s food scene is more than just a culinary adventure—it’s a gateway to understanding Japanese culture and traditions. From the art of sushi-making to the communal joy of izakaya dining (or drinking), every bite tells a story.
We encourage you to uncover these unique food discoveries. Join Tokyo Food Experiences and discover the life of the locals in this rich city.
Share your culinary adventures, support local businesses, and deepen your appreciation for Tokyo’s rich food culture.
Your next meal in Tokyo could be more than just a dish—it could be a memory, a connection, and an unforgettable taste of Japan’s heart and soul. Enjoy!
