Top 10 Hidden Gem Restaurants in Tokyo
Tokyo Top Ten - FoodTokyo is a foodie’s paradise, with restaurants spanning from world-renowned sushi institutions to humble back-alley diners. However, some of the city’s most incredible culinary experiences are tucked away from the typical tourist trail. These hidden gem eateries offer delicious fare and an authentic local experience away from the crowds. From a secret curry spot to an underground izakaya, here are Tokyo’s top 10 underrated restaurants that showcase the best of the city’s incredible and diverse food scene. Discover where Tokyo’s savviest diners go for rich flavors and unique atmospheres.
Nabezo
Tucked into a quiet residential street in Shibuya, this unassuming hot pot restaurant serves up some of the best nabe (hot pot) in Tokyo. The beef tendon kake-nabe with its rich, sublime broth is a must-try. With just a few coveted counter seats, it has an inviting, homey atmosphere that makes you feel like a local.
Cuisine:
Nabe (Hot Pot)Price:
$Address:
〒150-0042 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Udagawacho, 20−15 ヒューマックスパビリオン渋谷公園通り 8FWard:
AdachiWebsite:
Click to visit
©Nabezo Mensho Tokyo
Bunkyo-ku Ramen snobs rave about Mensho's incredible tonkotsu (pork bone) broth and perfectly cooked noodles. This acclaimed ramen shop is situated in Bunkyo-ku, an area known for its rich culinary heritage. Though unassuming from the outside, Mensho delivers some of the city's richest, creamiest, porky tonkotsu ramen that ramen purists line up for.
Cuisine:
RamenPrice:
$Address:
1-chōme-15-9 Kasuga, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 112-0003Ward:
BunkyōWebsite:
Click to visit
©Mensho Tokyo Kanda Yabu Soba
Classic Tokyo soba shop tucked away on a quiet residential Kanda side street. The phenomenal handmade soba noodles keep locals lining up.
Cuisine:
RamenPrice:
$Address:
2 Chome-4-7 Kanda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0493Ward:
ChiyodaWebsite:
Click to visit
©Kanda Yabu Soba Izakaya Tono
Dive into the heart of Chuo Ward and uncover Izakaya Tono, a hidden gem frequented by Japanese salarymen. This unassuming spot offers an authentic izakaya experience with a focus on classic Japanese dishes alongside an extensive sake list. Be prepared for a lively atmosphere and a menu brimming with delicious options to pair with your drinks.
Cuisine:
IzakayaPrice:
$$Address:
1-11-13 Nihonbashi-Muromachi, Chuo-ku, TokyoWard:
ChūōWebsite:
Click to visit
©Izakaya Tono Omoide Yokocho
Omoide Yokocho isn't a single restaurant, but a hidden labyrinth of tiny yakitori alleys in Shinjuku. This atmospheric maze is a true Tokyo gem, offering a glimpse into the city's vibrant nightlife scene. Explore the countless yakitori restaurants and pubs, each with its own unique charm, and savor the smoky goodness of perfectly grilled skewers alongside refreshing drinks.
©Omoide Yokocho Torikizoku Nishishinjuku Omoide Yokocho
While not exactly "hidden," Torikizoku Nishishinjuku Omoide Yokocho offers a hidden gem experience within the popular Omoide Yokocho alleyway. This casual yakitori chain's Omoide Yokocho location provides a more intimate and traditional setting compared to their larger outlets, making it a delightful escape from the bustling crowds. Be prepared for a lively atmosphere and delicious yakitori at budget-friendly prices.
Cuisine:
YakitoriPrice:
$Address:
1-2-3 Kabukicho, Leo Shinjuku Building, B1F Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-0021, JapanWard:
ShinjukuWebsite:
Click to visit
©Torikizoku Nishishinjuku Omoide Yokocho Tsukemen Michinya
Nestled in the quiet streets of Minato Ward, Tsukemen Michinya is a haven for tsukemen enthusiasts. This cash-only, hole-in-the-wall gem offers a taste of tradition with their rich and flavorful dipping broths and perfectly chewy noodles. Be prepared for a potential line-up alongside passionate locals, but the wait is worth the reward of their exceptional tsukemen.
Cuisine:
Tsukemen (Dipped Ramen)Price:
$Address:
5-28 Kameari, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo 125-0061Ward:
MinatoWebsite:
Click to visit
©Tsukemen Michinya Suzuyashinjuku Honten
Suzuyashinjuku Honten is a well-regarded tonkatsu restaurant located in the heart of Shinjuku. Known for its crispy and juicy tonkatsu, this restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and attentive service. The menu features a variety of pork cutlet options, including both rosu (pork loin) and hire (pork fillet), served with traditional accompaniments such as shredded cabbage, rice, and miso soup. The restaurant prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and maintaining a consistent cooking standard, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Cuisine:
Tonkatsu (Pork Cutlet)Price:
$$Address:
Suzuya Bldg, 1 Chome-23-15 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, JapanWard:
ShinjukuWebsite:
Click to visit
©Suzuyashinjuku Honten Shinjuku Kappo Nakajima
Shinjuku Kappo Nakajima is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers an exceptional dining experience with a focus on sardines. The restaurant is renowned for its affordable yet high-quality lunch sets, starting at just ¥990. Diners can enjoy dishes such as deep-fried sardines, simmered sardines in shoyu stock, sardine sashimi, and the popular yanagawa nabe set. The cozy atmosphere and attentive service make it a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists.
Cuisine:
Iwashi (Sardines)Price:
VariesAddress:
3 Chome-32-5 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, JapanWard:
ShinjukuWebsite:
Click to visit
©Shinjuku Kappo Nakajima Genshiyaki Hibachi
Genshiyaki Hibachi offers a unique dining experience reminiscent of a cozy Japanese countryside hut. The restaurant features an irori, a traditional Japanese charcoal hearth, where chefs prepare genshiyaki-style grilled fish, imparting a rich, smoky flavor. The course menu starts at ¥6,800 and includes a selection of side dishes and expertly grilled fish. For a more luxurious experience, the ¥11,000 option includes upgraded clay-pot rice with ikura and snow crab, along with a two-and-a-half-hour all-you-can-drink package.
Cuisine:
RamenPrice:
$$$Address:
1 Chome-15-3 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0023, JapanWard:
ShinjukuWebsite:
Click to visit
©Genshiyaki Hibachi
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