Tokyo is Japan's capital and one of the world's most dynamic megacities, where ancient temples and shrines coexist alongside gleaming skyscrapers and neon-lit streets. As the cultural, economic, and political heart of Japan, Tokyo offers an unmatched blend of tradition and state-of-the-art modernity across its diverse 23 special wards and surrounding cities.
Tokyo is the world's most Michelin-starred city, home to sushi counters, ramen shops, tempura specialists, and yakitori stalls that range from ¥500 street snacks to ¥60,000 omakase experiences. Edomae sushi, born in Tokyo Bay, remains the benchmark for the style worldwide, while the city's ramen scene spans rich tonkotsu, refined shoyu, and truffle-laced Michelin-starred bowls. Izakaya (Japanese gastropubs) form the backbone of everyday dining, serving small plates of yakitori, sashimi, and fried snacks alongside beer and sake in convivial, smoky settings. Department store basements, known as depachika, hold some of the city's best food shopping — rows of bento, wagashi, and prepared dishes from famous restaurants sold to commuters heading home. Tokyo's food scene rewards exploration at every price point, from a ¥300 conveyor-belt sushi plate to a three-Michelin-star tasting menu.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Japanese
Kaiten Sushi
Yakitori
Food tours & tastings in Tokyo
Eat your way through Tokyo with a guide.
Browse food experiences in TokyoWe may earn a commission from bookings made through these links.
Street food
Local flavours at affordable prices.
Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers)
Find it at: Omoide Yokocho, Shinjuku; Yurakucho yakitori alley
Takoyaki (octopus balls)
Find it at: Street stalls and food halls citywide, especially Asakusa and Shibuya
Taiyaki (fish-shaped filled pastry)
Find it at: Naniwaya Sohonten in Azabu-Juban and stalls near Asakusa
Korokke (croquettes)
Find it at: Ameyoko Market butcher shops in Ueno
Crepes
Find it at: Harajuku Takeshita Street
Food markets
Where locals shop and graze.
Tsukiji Outer Market
Hours: Most stalls 5:00-14:00, closed some Wednesdays and Sundays
Ameyoko Market
Hours: Daily approximately 10:00-20:00
Depachika (Isetan Shinjuku / Mitsukoshi Ginza basements)
Hours: Daily approximately 10:00-20:00
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Tipping is not practiced in Japan and can cause confusion if attempted
Many ramen shops use ticket vending machines at the entrance — select and pay before sitting down
Cash is still preferred or required at many smaller restaurants, izakayas, and street stalls
Reservations are essential for popular sushi and kaiseki restaurants, often required months in advance
Conveyor-belt and chain restaurants are the most reliable option for walk-ins without reservations
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | ¥1,000-2,000 per meal — ramen shops, gyudon chains, conveyor-belt sushi, street food | Street food, local eateries, and simple restaurants. |
| Mid-range | $15-40/meal | Sit-down restaurants with good service and varied menus. |
| Upscale | $40+/meal | Fine dining, international cuisine, and premium experiences. |