Local's Guide to Tokyo Food (13 best tokyo food spots to try)
- Kristin Hess
- Jul 14
- 3 min read
Click for the TikTok video to see photos/videos.
If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo and already overwhelmed by endless lists of “must-eats,” trending TikTok spots, and 2-hour lines then this guide is for you.
We just got back from Tokyo and every single place we ate was filled with locals, didn’t require a wait (except for one that needed a res), and was an absolute 10/10. This is the list I curated with intention. No hype, just genuinely great food locals actually eat. Here are the 13 best Tokyo food spots...
🍖 Gyukatsu at Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu Shibuya
Crispy, perfectly fried beef katsu you sear yourself on a hot stone. Surprisingly easy to walk into. What to get: waygu.
🍣 Michelin Omakase Lunch at Sushi Rinda, Shimomeguro (reservation required)
Tucked away in a quiet residential pocket of Tokyo, Sushi Rinda was our only reservation and totally worth it. We were the only tourists there, and the chefs kept us laughing the entire time. Every bite was incredibly fresh and intentional, ending with a surprise unlimited orange juice tasting (who knew orange juice could be that good?). High-end quality without the high-end attitude. Tip: reserve for lunch to save about $150.
🥪 Sandwiches at Grill Bon, Ginza
Known for their wagyu sandwiches, but everything is worth trying. A low-key spot in Ginza no frills, just ridiculously good sandwiches. Tip: cash only. What to get: waygu, trust me.
🍳 Breakfast at Garden House Crafts, Daikanyama
Great coffee, pastries, plates, and a outdoor patio. What to get: the raspberry and almond butter pastry. Tip: they open at 8:30 AM!!!
🥗 Healthy Lunch at Woodberry Coffee Roasters, Shibuya
Health-conscious cafe with gluten free pastries and delicious coffees. What to get: eggs Benedict.
🍔 Smash Burger at Henry’s Burger, Harajuku
A great smash burger and fries when you need a break from Japanese food!
🍧 Kakigori at Pap Coffee, Harajuku
Massive shaved ice mountains topped with things like matcha syrup, cream, or seasonal fruit. What to get: the creme brulee Kakigori.
🍜 Traditional Soy Ramen at Mita Seimenjo, Shinjuku
No wait, no hype, just pure shoyu ramen heaven. Deep flavor, chewy noodles, and comforting in the best way. Tip: the spicy is SPICY, beware.
🍜 Cold Dipping Ramen at Inose Ramen, Shinjuku
Also called tsukemen, the noodles are cold and springy, served with a rich dipping broth. Perfect summer meal. What to get: the soy dipping ramen - IT'S SO GOOD!
🍜 Carbonara Ramen at Mendokoro Tomo, Akasaka
If Japan and Italy had a ramen baby this would be it. Think creamy sauce, egg yolk, and umami in a bowl. Tip: get a local craft beer to go along with your ramen.
🍗 Fried Chicken at Nakayoshi, Shibuya
Tucked into a quiet alley, this tiny spot serves crisp, juicy fried chicken with unlimited rice, miso soup, vegetables, and more. A japanese set menu with fried chicken or mackerel for just $8 USD!!
🍷 Natural Wine & Snacks at Toco, Daikanyama
Super chill wine bar with small plates, cozy interiors, and a curated list of natural wines. There's only about 10 seats and it gives scandanavian vibes with amazing Japanese snacks and natural wines. What to get: the orange wine.
🍕 Pizza at Pizza Marumo, Daikanyama
Because sometimes, after all the ramen, you just need a perfect sourdough crust pizza with funky toppings and a glass of wine. Also, did you know Tokyo is known for having some of the best pizza in the world? I can agree! What to get: truly everything, the whole menu is amazing. Pic from Pizza Marumo website, I was too hungry to take a pic I forgot!
Save my google maps guide, it’s loaded with even more food spots, cafes, bakeries, and things to do... and yes, no tourist traps or viral lines.
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