The Tokyo Food Tour: 15 Dishes You MUST Try (Plus Hidden Izakayas)

Tokyo is a paradise for food lovers—a city where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge culinary innovation. Whether you’re slurping ramen in a tiny alleyway or savoring sushi at a Michelin-starred counter, Tokyo food is an unforgettable experience.

On my last trip, I ate my way through the city, discovering must-try dishes and secret izakayas (Japanese pubs) that most tourists miss. If you’re planning a Tokyo food adventure, here are 15 dishes you absolutely can’t skip, plus my favorite hidden spots to try them!

Why Tokyo Food is a Must-Experience

Before diving into the dishes, let’s talk about what makes Tokyo food so special. The city has more Michelin stars than any other in the world, but some of its best flavors come from humble street stalls and decades-old family-run joints. Every bite tells a story—whether it’s a 500-year-old tempura recipe or a modern twist on classic ramen.

Here’s how to eat like a local while tasting the best of Tokyo food culture.

15 Must-Try Tokyo Food Experiences

1. Ramen (Beyond the Basics)

Tokyo’s ramen scene is legendary, with styles ranging from shoyu (soy-based) to tsukemen (dipping noodles). Skip the chains and head to small local shops like Nakiryu (Michelin-starred ramen for under €10) or Ichiran (private booth ramen experience).

2. Sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market

While the inner market has moved, Tsukiji’s outer market still buzzes with fresh seafood stalls. Try fatty tuna (otoro), sea urchin (uni), and tamagoyaki (sweet egg sushi) at tiny standing bars.

3. Yakitori (Grilled Chicken Skewers)

Juicy, smoky, and perfectly seasoned, yakitori is a Tokyo food staple. Visit Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) in Shinjuku for tiny yakitori stalls with old-school charm.

4. Okonomiyaki (Savory Pancake)

This Osaka-born dish is huge in Tokyo too. Try Sometarō in Asakusa, where you grill your own okonomiyaki at the table.

5. Monjayaki (Tokyo’s Runny Cousin to Okonomiyaki)

A Tokyo specialty, this gooey, crispy pancake is a must-try. Head to Monja Street in Tsukishima for the best versions.

6. Tempura (Light & Crispy Perfection)

For next-level tempura, visit Tempura Kondo (Michelin-starred) or Tenmatsu for a more budget-friendly option.

7. Unagi (Grilled Eel)

Tokyo’s freshwater eel is sweet, tender, and grilled to perfection. Try Nodaiwa (a 200-year-old unagi specialist).

8. Takoyaki (Octopus Balls)

Though originally from Osaka, Tokyo does them justice. Look for street vendors in Akihabara or Harajuku.

9. Tonkatsu (Crispy Pork Cutlet)

For the ultimate tonkatsu, Maisen in Omotesando serves pork so tender it melts in your mouth.

10. Soba (Buckwheat Noodles)

Tokyo’s soba masters take these noodles seriously. Try Kanda Matsuya for handmade soba since 1884.

11. Matcha Desserts

From matcha parfaits to soft serve, Tokyo’s sweet tooth is real. Suzukien in Asakusa has 7 levels of matcha ice cream.

12. Melon Pan (Sweet Crispy Bread)

A simple but addictive snack—best enjoyed fresh from bakeries like Kagetsudo in Asakusa.

13. Kaiseki (High-End Multi-Course Meal)

For a splurge, try a kaiseki dinner at a ryokan (traditional inn) or a Michelin-starred spot like Kikunoi.

14. Izakaya Hopping (Japanese Pub Crawl)

No Tokyo food tour is complete without izakaya hopping. Try Nonbei Yokocho (Drunkard’s Alley) in Shibuya for tiny bars with big character.

15. Convenience Store Surprises

Yes, really! 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson have shockingly good onigiri, sandwiches, and fried chicken.

Hidden Izakayas for Authentic Tokyo Food

Want to escape the tourist crowds? These under-the-radar izakayas are where locals go:

1. Uoshin Nogizaka (Roppongi)

A tiny seafood izakaya where chefs grill fish right in front of you.

2. Gonpachi (Nishi-Azabu)

The real-life inspiration for Kill Bill’s fight scene—great for yakitori and atmosphere.

3. Ebisu Yokocho

A maze of tiny bars serving everything from oysters to kushiyaki (grilled skewers).

4. Omoide Yokocho (Shinjuku)

Nostalgic alley packed with retro izakayas—perfect for late-night eats.

5. Harmonica Alley (Kichijoji)

Less touristy than Shinjuku’s alleys, with cozy bars and local vibes.

Final Tips for Your Tokyo Food Adventure

Use cash—many small places don’t take cards.
Learn basic phrases (“Sumimasen” = Excuse me, “Oishii!” = Delicious!).
Try standing bars—they’re cheaper and super social.
Go early—popular spots have long lines.

Ready to Eat Your Way Through Tokyo?

From street snacks to secret izakayas, Tokyo food is a journey of flavors waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, these 15 must-try dishes (and hidden spots) will make your trip unforgettable.

For more resources on unexplored destinations and travel tips, check out iexploor.com.

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First and foremost, secure a comfortable place to stay through reliable accommodation platforms like Booking.com.

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Ensure you make the most of your destination by reserving tickets for key attractions through Get Your Guide.

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Lastly, stay connected on the go by arranging for a local SIM card or international roaming plan, Airalo provides excellent options.