Tokyo is a food lover’s paradise, and if you’re just diving in, there are some dishes and spots you absolutely have to try.
From the fluffiest pancakes you’ll ever taste to gourmet convenience store eats, here’s everything you need to know to eat your way through Tokyo like a pro…
Flipper’s: The Soufflé Pancakes You’ve Been Dreaming Of
First stop, Flipper’s—home to Japan’s famous soufflé pancakes! These pancakes are unbelievably light and airy, almost melting in your mouth with every bite. The secret? Egg whites whipped to perfection and gently folded into the batter for that cloud-like consistency. If you’re craving a dreamy stack, Flipper’s is the place to be.
Where to Go:
- Flipper’s Shibuya: Right in the heart of Shibuya. They open at 9:00 AM, and trust me, it’s best to arrive right at opening because lines build up quickly.
- Flipper’s Harajuku: Close to Takeshita Street, perfect if you’re already in Harajuku. Same 9:00 AM opening, so get there early!
What you should know:
WARNING: As a avid sweets lover, I decided to go with the Salted Carmel Pancakes, while my sister had the apple brown sugar.
Mine was a bit too sugary for me – which if you know me – is crazy to say. So, if you’re going solo on these pancakes you may want to choose one that’s more savory than sweet.
Though I recommend one of each!
Menu Highlights:
- Classic Soufflé Pancakes: Soft and simple, served with whipped cream and maple syrup. Pure pancake perfection.
- Seasonal Fruit Pancakes: Topped with fresh, seasonal fruits, which add a natural sweetness to the fluffy base.
- Salted Caramel Pancakes: A decadent option if you’re a real sugar lover, but even for those with a sweet tooth, it can be a lot to finish solo!
Price: Expect to spend around ¥1,200-¥1,500 (about $10-$13), depending on your toppings.
Pro Tip: Avoid long lines by arriving early!!
I got there right when it opened during high time travel season in the summer and we were seated right away. But, by 10:30am, a line had already formed around the corner.
Tsukiji Fish Market: A Seafood Wonderland
If you’re a seafood fan, Tsukiji Fish Market is a must.
This bustling market is full of vendors selling everything from sushi to grilled seafood to some of the best wagyu beef you’ll ever try.
The sheer variety is overwhelming – in the best way possible. Even for picky eaters like myself there were dozens of things I tried (and LOVED)! in the best way possible.
For a special treat, you’ve got to try uni (sea urchin) here; it’s fresh, creamy, and a local favorite.
Must-Try Bites:
- Uni (Sea Urchin): Look for it fresh! It’s everywhere, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s a must.
- Sushi & Sashimi: You’ll find sushi prepared right in front of you. Doesn’t get fresher than this!
- Grilled Seafood: Everything from scallops to shrimp, cooked to perfection.
- Wagyu Beef: The quality here is insane, even just for a quick beef skewer.
- Giant King Crab & Oysters: Yes, they’re as big as they sound, and you can have them grilled or raw.
Hours: The market is usually bustling from 5:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Early mornings are best to get the freshest bites.
Price: Prices vary, but budget around ¥1,000-¥2,500 ($9-$22) for uni, and ¥2,000 ($18) for a sushi plate.
Insider Tip: Come hungry, BRING CASH, and sample as much as you can.
ONCE AGAIN: Most vendors are cash-only, and atms aren’t nearby, so please make sure you brought enough to fill your tummy.
7-Eleven: A Foodie’s Secret Weapon
Yes, I’m talking about 7-Eleven!
Japanese 7-Eleven stores are legendary, with food that’s fresh, delicious, and wildly affordable.
This isn’t just snacks—think teriyaki chicken skewers, corn dogs, and seasonal Japanese specialties that make it feel more like a café than a convenience store.
What to Try:
- Yakitori (Grilled Chicken Skewers): Tender, flavorful chicken skewers glazed with a sweet-savory sauce—perfect for a quick, delicious snack.
- Nikuman (Steamed Pork Buns): Soft, steamed buns filled with seasoned pork. Warm, comforting, and great for on-the-go.
- Karaage (Japanese Fried Chicken): Crispy and juicy bite-sized fried chicken pieces, packed with flavor and a fan favorite among locals and tourists alike.
- Bento Boxes: These pre-packed meals are so good, you’ll forget they came from a convenience store.
- Onigiri (Rice Balls): Filled with everything from salmon to pickled plum; a classic Japanese snack.
- Japanese Snacks: Matcha Kit Kats, unique Pocky flavors, and chips in every wild flavor you can imagine.
Price: Super affordable! Hot food items like skewers are ¥100-¥150 ($0.90-$1.30), with bento boxes around ¥400-¥600 ($3.50-$5.50).
Extra Perk: Many 7-Elevens have seating areas so you can sit and enjoy your food right there.
Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo: For Coffee Lovers
If you’re a coffee fan, Tokyo’s Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Nakameguro is a game-changer.
It’s not your average Starbucks—this is an immersive coffee experience with rare beans, custom drinks, and baked goods that are out of this world.
And yes, the croissants here might just rival those in Paris!
Why Go:
- Specialty Coffees: Exclusive drinks made with premium beans and unique brewing methods.
- Freshly Baked Pastries: The croissants here are legendary; don’t miss them.
- Beautiful Space: The multi-story space is stunning and designed to combine Japanese style with modern coffee culture.
Price: It’s on the pricier side, with items costing around ¥800-¥1500 ($6-$12), but totally worth it.
Fun Fact: There are only a handful of Starbucks Reserve Roasteries around the world, so it’s a unique experience.
Hidden Gems for Sushi in Tokyo
Tokyo is home to some of the best sushi in the world, and you don’t need to stick to the famous names to enjoy incredible sushi. Here are some lesser-known sushi spots where the quality is impeccable, and the vibe is more intimate.
Sushiya Ichiyanagi, Roppongi:
A quiet spot offering fresh, seasonal fish in a relaxed setting. Prices range from ¥2,000-¥5,000 ($15-$40) for top-notch quality without the tourist crowds.
Sushi Ya, Ginza:
Unassuming but fantastic, with an omakase starting around ¥10,000 ($75) that features beautifully crafted seasonal nigiri in an intimate setting.
Sushi Tokyo Ten, Shinjuku:
Casual yet refined, with a 10-12 piece omakase course for about ¥5,000 ($40). Located in the Shinjuku Newoman complex, it’s high-quality sushi without the formality.
Uogashi Nihon-Ichi, Tsukiji:
A local standing sushi bar offering fresh fish sourced daily from Tsukiji Market. Most nigiri pieces cost ¥150-¥200 ($1.50-$2), making it a favorite for a quick, affordable sushi fix.
Best Ramen Spots
Tokyo is full of incredible ramen shops, and while some are world-famous, there are lesser-known spots that locals cherish for their unique flavors and cozy vibes.
- Menya Kaijin, Shinjuku: Known for its light, seafood-based ramen topped with fresh clams and shrimp. A unique take on ramen, with prices around ¥900 ($7). Go early to beat the local crowd!
- Ramen Hayashida, Shibuya: Specializes in shoyu (soy sauce) ramen with a clear, flavorful broth made from chicken, kombu, and dried sardines. A great bowl for ¥850 ($6.50), perfect for a cozy, local experience.
- Rokurinsha, Tokyo Station: Famous for tsukemen (dipping ramen) with thick, umami-rich broth and chewy noodles. Expect to pay around ¥1,000 ($8), and a short wait that’s well worth it.
Japanese Desserts You Have to Try
Finally, Tokyo has a sweet side! Japanese desserts are worth exploring, with unique flavors and delicate presentations.
- Matcha Parfaits and Soft Serve: Kyo Hayashiya in Ginza is famous for all things matcha, including parfaits and soft serve with layers of matcha goodness.
- Anmitsu: This is a traditional Japanese dessert made with agar jelly, red bean paste, and fruit. Try it at Funabashiya for an authentic experience.
- Taiyaki: These fish-shaped cakes are filled with red bean paste or custard. It’s a popular street snack and a fun way to end a food-filled day in Tokyo.
Each dessert spot has its own specialty, so save some room for these unique treats.
Ready to Eat Your Way Through Tokyo?
Tokyo’s food scene is like no other, offering a mix of high-quality convenience, gourmet finds, and traditional flavors.
Whether you’re craving fluffy pancakes or hunting for the best sushi, this guide will set you up for a truly unforgettable culinary adventure.
Grab your chopsticks, come hungry, and dive into Tokyo’s incredible food world!
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