What is a trip to the Land Of The Rising Sun without slurping on a sensational bowl of ramen? Those with dietary restrictions may find it a tad tricky to enjoy ramen due to the complexity of this dish—from its hearty broth, numerous ingredients to the types of meat used which more often than not involves the addition of pork.

Muslim travellers would be pleased to know that there is a steady increase in the number of eateries offering halal ramen to cater to the growing Muslim tourist population. This implies that either the ramen shop-owner is a Muslim or the restaurant strictly uses only halal meat for its dishes and seafood stock for its broth.

Take your pick from this specially-curated list and indulge in a heartwarming bowl of oishii ramen with your loved ones. While you are at it, do not forget to add some chilli paste for that extra punch! Here are 6 Best Halal Ramen Eateries In Tokyo For A Taste Of Japan.

Photo Credit: Halal Ramen & Dining Honolu Ebisu

#1 HALAL RAMEN & DINING HONOLU EBISU

A seven-minute walk from Ebisu station will take you to this Muslim-friendly ramen joint, where you can indulge in flavoursome bowls of this highly popular Japanese noodle dish. Highlights of their diverse menu include the Rich Chicken Soy Sauce Ramen, Spicy Ramen, Fried Chicken Ramen, and Rich Chicken Flavour Ramen.

Opt to pair your tantalising ramen with their crisp Nikkoken (chicken and tofu) gyoza. Dip these pan-fried dumpling-like treats into your thick ramen broth and savour the mouth-watering goodness.

ABC Americabashi Bldg. 1F, 1-23-1 Ebisuminami, Sibuya-ku
Tokyo 105-0022
Tel: +81 035 734 1667
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5pm – 10pm

Photo Credit: Halal Ramen Honolu Nihonbashi

#2 HALAL RAMEN HONOLU NIHONBASHI

Halal Ramen Honolu has two outlets in Tokyo and their second outlet is in the area of Nihonbashi. You can enjoy similar dishes here and if you have a penchant for spicy food, go for the Spicy Fried Chicken Ramen.

Complement your ramen with a portion of Karaage. The crispy chicken is fried to perfection, with a distinct crunch in every bite. Be rest assured that prices here will not leave your wallet with a massive dent.

4-9 Kobuna-cho, Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku
Tokyo 103-0024
Tel: +81 036 661 7724
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5pm – 9.30pm

Photo Credit: Royal Indonesia Travel

#3 MENYA KAIJIN 

Located just outside Shinjuku station, this particular ramen joint specialises in seafood-based ramen broth. They take pride in their signature Shio Ramen which is essentially a light-based soup—usually either chicken or fish-flavoured. The clear broth is really aromatic and offers something different to the palate.

Even though this place is not halal-certified, they do offer Muslim-friendly options for Muslim travellers. Since they open until late daily, you can even have this for supper as its piping hot light broth is perfect for satisfying those midnight hunger pangs.

2F, 3-35-7, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku
Tokyo 160-0022
Tel: +81 033 356 5658
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 4.30pm – 11.30pm

Photo Credit: Naritaya Asakusa

#4 NARITAYA ASAKUSA

Found along one of the less bustling shopping arcades, you can expect a simple but comforting menu from Halal-certified Naritaya Asakusa which features several ramen options. Aromatic broiled chicken is used as a substitute for the usual pork fillet in ramen broth and the ramen stall uses only halal ingredients.

Since Naritaya is operated by a noodle factory, you will be glad to know that the handmade springy noodles here offer just the right texture to complement your ramen.

2-7-13, Asakusa, Taito-ku
Tokyo 111-0032
Tel: +81 034 285 9806
Mon to Sat: 11am – 10pm
Sun: 11am – 9pm

Photo Credit: Shinjuku Gyoen Ramen Ouka

#5 SHINJUKU GYOEN RAMEN OUKA

This halal-certified eatery’s ramen is the most unique among the lot. Their sea bream-based broth offers a hint of tanginess courtesy of a special secret ingredient: tomatoes. The broth tastes heavenly and truly whets your appetite.

There are also vegan options here to cater to the dietary needs of vegetarians. An interesting point to note is that this eatery is a typical tachigui shop—a traditional standing-room-only restaurant.

1-11-7 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku
Tokyo 160-0022
Tel: +81 035 925 8426
Mon to Thu: 2pm – 10pm
Fri: 5pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 12.30pm – 10pm

Photo Credit: T’s Tantan

#6 T’S TANTAN

Boasting a terrific mash-up of flavours and textures, the nutritious ramen dishes here are made without any ingredients of animal origin. This is a perfect ramen restaurant for vegan visitors and poses as a Muslim-friendly alternative for those seeking halal options.

The popular choices here include the Soy Sauce Ramen and the White Tantan. If you want something more filling, get the Mini Rice Bowl Set and delight in a mini rice bowl along with your noodles. The dishes here are carefully prepared to ensure that these nourishing bowls offer great quality.

1-9-1 Yaesu South Exit, 1F, Keiyo Street, Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku
Tokyo 100-0005
Tel: +81 033 218 8040
Daily: 7am – 11pm

For more recommendations, read our guide on the best places to discover in Tokyo.

Ask a local where to go for a casual yakitori meal in Tokyo and they would probably point you to Torikizoku. It is arguably one of the biggest yakitori chain in Japan and there are outlets everywhere.

It is almost impossible to not locate a Torikizoku in Central Tokyo; just in Shinjuku alone, there are more than 5 outlets. That they see queues every single night at every outlet speaks of their massive popularity and there is every reason to love Torikizoku.

It is undisputedly the best name to trust when you want a casual, fuss-free, authentic local izakaya experience in Tokyo. And the best part? You won’t have to break the bank for a meal at Torikizoku; everything on the menu—including alcohol—is priced at only ¥298 each. Most of the branches open till 5am daily; you know where to go when you are feeling hungry at night!

Every item on the menu at Torikizoku is priced at an amazingly affordable ¥298. Yes, regardless of which skewer you order, side dishes or drinks, everything is ¥298 each.

Its affordability is probably its primary reason for success. The outlets may be big—each outlet sits averagely 150 to 200 people—but be prepared to wait for a table. Queues are common and you would realise the bulk of its patrons are actually locals—students, young executives and whatnot, all merry-making over yakitori and beer.

The vibrant atmosphere of the izakaya-style restaurant still gives you privacy; the seating area is partitioned into individual “booths” of sorts and big groups are definitely welcome.

On its skewers menu, you have a good range of meats. From chicken meatballs to pork belly and beef slices, the skewers come in an assortment of flavours and marination. Some of our favourites are the chicken meatballs with cheese, pork belly with leek, marinated beef and chicken skin.

Side dishes include seasoned eggs, udon, vegetables and the in-betweens.

You know what’s awesome, too? Alcohol is also priced at ¥298! Delicious yakitori and cheap beer; what more can you ask in life?

Now you know the reason why we visit Torikizoku every single trip to Tokyo?

Torikizoku
1 Chome-17-12 Kabukicho
Tel: +81 3-3200-9332
Daily: 5pm – 5am

Have you heard of Mount Takao? It is outside of Tokyo but is easily accessible via train. Mount Takao boasts a quiet, serene surrounding—a far cry from the hectic city life.

Mount Takao is a day trip option if you want to get out of the city for a bit, and getting there from Shinjuku Station takes about an hour. But the mountain does not just offer the sights and sounds of nature, there are also shopping streets and restaurants located on the mountain itself!

Still not sure whether you should make the commute? Here are 7 Reasons Why You Should Make A Day Trip From Tokyo To Mount Takao.

#1 THERE ARE SEVERAL HIKING TRAILS TO TAKE

Nature lovers will love making the most out of the day trip by hiking up the mountain. Trail Number 1 offers concrete footpaths up the mountain, but the remaining trails are unpaved, although they are less crowded.

A hike up the mountain takes about 90 minutes.

#2 YOU CAN EVEN TAKE A CABLE CAR IF YOU ARE LAZY

There are cable cars going up and down the mountain for travellers who would rather do without the hike. It will only take about 20 minutes or less to get to the top! A single trip costs ¥480, while a round trip costs ¥930.

#3 YOU WILL GET A CLEAR VIEW OF THE MOUNTAINOUS SURROUNDINGS

The view from the mountain is breathtaking, to say the least. There is an outlook point that allows visitors to take in the beautiful surroundings. If you are tired after your hike, you can even sit on the benches while you sip on a drink.

Plus, the view is great for pictures!

#4 SHOP ON THE TRANQUIL STREETS

The road leading up to the cable car centre is lined with independent stores, selling everything from handmade rice crackers, ice cream, to little keychains and souvenirs.

#5 FILL YOUR TUMMY WITH SOME DELICIOUS SOBA

If you take a walk down the serene shopping streets within Mount Takao, you will find plenty of soba restaurants. Soba is evidently a popular dish in Mount Takao, and you can feast on hot, soupy soba noodles, or just some traditional ice-cold soba.

#6 WATCH MONKEYS PLAY AROUND

Near the top of the mountain sits a little Monkey Park, and you just need to pay a small entrance fee to be able to see the jumpy creatures in their enclosures.

Access to the Monkey Park costs ¥420 per head.

Photo Credit: WAttention

#7 THE AUTUMN FOLIAGE IS AMAZING

Mount Takao is very popular during Autumn, when the trees all around the mountain turn into various shades of orange, yellow and red. The autumn foliage is simple stunning; and very quintessential of Japan.

Just this alone is worth the trip to Mount Takao during Autumn!

HOW TO GET TO MOUNT TAKAO

Mount Takao is easily accessible via train from Shinjuku Station in Central Tokyo. It takes approximately one hour.

Simply hop onto the Keio Railway line from Shinjuku, and alight at Takaosanguchi Station—the nearest Station to Mount Takao.

Read: 6 Best Day Trips From Tokyo You Will Regret Not Visiting.

Japan is definitely a country you cannot visit just once.

The different prefectures each carry its own individual charm. You can choose to experience how the modern city life is like, or let the old-world architecture of other cities take you back in time.

It is quite impossible to cover every inch of Japan with just one trip, but you can get the most out of your stay by going for short, eye-opening day trips to other towns and cities located within reasonable distances from Tokyo.

Here are 6 Of The Best Daytrips From Tokyo.

Photo Credit: Boutique Japan

#1 HAKONE, KANAGAWA

Hakone in Kanagawa is reasonably near Tokyo, and is about an hour and a half away from Tokyo. You can easily catch a train down the Odakyu line to Hakone-Yumoto station. You will be greeted with a magnificent sight of Mount Fuji, coupled with a number of other attractions around the area.

Hakone is, in fact, one of the best places in Japan to catch the sakura blooms around spring time. Besides admiring cherry blossoms, you can also visit the numerous hot springs around Hakone, and try some unique black volcanic eggs that can only be found in the town.

There is also the iconic shrine that is everyone’s favourite photo spot.

Photo Credit: Japan Guide

#2 KAMAKURA, KANAGAWA

Kamakura, like Hakone, is located in the Kanagawa Prefecture. But what Kamakura is best known for is its Great Buddha of Kotokuin Temple, the second largest bronze Buddha statue in all of Japan.

Besides Kotoku-in, Kamakura is also dotted with many other temples such as Engakuji Temple and Hase-dera Temple.

You can also sunbathe and swim around the sandy beaches of Kamakura. It only takes an hour and 15 minutes to get from Tokyo to Kamakura by train!

Photo Credit: YouTube

#3 KAWAGOE, SAITAMA

You do not need a trip to Kyoto to step into “Edomae Nihon”.

Kawagoe in Saitama is only a 30-minute train ride from Tokyo. The serene streets are flanked with quiet little storehouses that were built decades ago, taking you back to the Edo period.

Life here feels almost uncommercialised. You can have a meal at one of the authentic Japanese restaurants along the road, or take some traditional Japanese candy home from one of the stores.

Photo Credit: Washingtonian Post

#4 MOUNT FUJI, SHIZUOKA

You have seen this iconic mountain on postcards and screen savers, but while you are in Japan, you should definitely pay a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site and see Mount Fuji in person.

You can get to Shizouka via the JR Tokaido Shinkansen line, and it would take slightly over an hour.

Shizouka prefecture is one of the best places to score an unobstructed view of the volcano. Try going to Fuji City and Shimizu! Just make sure you visit when the fog and mist are not thick so as to score a clearer view of the magnificent mountain.

Photo Credit: Japan Guide

#5 NIKKO CITY, TOCHIGI

Be awed by the beautiful autumnal colours in Nikko City when fall comes. The trees will turn into beautiful shades of red, orange and yellow when the fall months approach and this attracts a good number of tourists every year.

Nikko City is also home to a number of shrines such as Taiyuinbyo, Rinnoji Temple and Tamazowa Imperial Villa. You can also visit the Sacrad Shinkyo Bridge! Originally built in 1936, the bridge looks out to the beautiful natural landscapes, waterfalls, and lakes.

Nikko City is a two-hour train ride from Tokyo.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

#6 CHIBA PREFECTURE

A couple of Japan’s most popular attractions and touristy sites are actually located in Chiba Prefecture, including Tokyo Disneyland. It is also where Narita Airport is located.

The Boso Peninsula takes up a large amount of the prefecture and holds many natural and architectural treasures for your discovery.

While you are in Chiba, be sure to visit the Tateyama Castle for an aerial view of the town and Mount Nokogiriyama. Nicknamed Sawtooth Mountain, Mount Nokogiriyama literally puts you at the edge of the world. From the vantage point, you will be able to see Tokyo Bay, and even Mount Fuji if weather permits.

It takes about an hour and a half to get to Chiba from Tokyo.

There is a common misconception that Tokyo is a pricey destination to visit, what with souvenir shops by the dozens, and tasty food choices no matter where you turn. But saying that Tokyo is expensive need not necessarily be true.

We believe that you can always choose whether or not your trip to the land of sushi, ramen and all things kawaii is going to be painful to the wallet or not. Tokyo has many affordable yet impressive dining options within the city.

Ganso Zushi—a Kaitenzushi chain in Tokyo—is one such place. It is not a name as frequently mentioned when people talk about dining in Tokyo, but it is definitely one which serves fresh sushi at incredibly affordable prices.

The kaitenzushi chain has outlets all over Tokyo, so you will probably stumble across one of their restaurants while you are in the more popular shopping districts around the city. They are relatively easy to locate and can be found in popular shopping districts, so you do not need to go hunting for them.

Prices for their sushi starts from ¥130 (S$1.72) for plates with the more “regular” choices such as salmon and tuna. Subsequently, other plates go at ¥210, ¥262, ¥399 and ¥525. You will find all kinds of sushi in the likes of fatty tuna, sweet prawns, swordfish, and even uni (sea urchin)!

Photo Credit: bitterbubblegums

The freshness is not compromised despite it being a chain. English menus are provided in the restaurant, so you do not need to worry much about the language barrier.

A tip from the locals for all kaitenzushi chains would be to order straight from the sushi chef. The Japanese rarely ever take plates of sushi off the conveyer belt, simply because they might have been there for a while, and freshness means everything to the locals.

Ganso Zushi Shinjuku
160-0023 Tokyo Nishi-Shinjuku
Shinjuku-ku, 1-15-5
Tel: +81 03-5321-5775
Daily: 11.30am – 11pm

Tokyo is every food lover’s paradise. Japanese food in Tokyo is a one-of-a-kind experience and delivered on a completely different level. Once you have had Japanese food in Tokyo, your life will never be the same again. The authenticity is that priceless and memorable.

With 13 three-stars, 59 two-stars, and 208 one-stars restaurant, Tokyo has no lack of Michelin star restaurants. However, Tokyo is more than just fine dining restaurants – from restaurants to cafes, sushi and sashimi eateries, tonkatsu restaurants and ramen parlours, it is really almost impossible to run out of dining ideas nor have a bad meal in the cosmopolitan city.

Here is our guide on where to eat in Tokyo, and we have included 30 of our favourite restaurants, cafes and local eateries that you have to try.

AOI MARUSHIN

Aoi Marushin is a famous tempura restaurant which has been serving tempura for 60 years. If you are on a hunt to try the best tempura in Tokyo, Aoi Marushin is a must visit. They have a selection of dishes to choose from, such as the Tempura Set (¥2,310), and Tendon (¥1,700). For the full package, go for the Kaiseki Aoi (¥5,250) which features two kinds of appetisers, soup, sashimi, grilled fish, stewed dish, tempura, rice and dessert.

Aoi Marushin is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s affordable tempura restaurants.

1-4-4 Asakusa, Taito-ku
Tel: +81 3 3841 0110
Daily: 11am – 9pm
Right of Kaminari gate at Sensoji Temple
Nearest Station: Asakusa

AOYAMA FLOWER MARKET TEA HOUSE

Aoyama Flower Market Tea House combines a florist with a tea house, and the result is the dream café for every girl. Like an indoor greenhouse but with an impeccable sophistication, the tea house is lavishly decorated with fresh flowers of the season.

Decorative mini lights span across the ceiling and drape down the pillars, creating an illumination so dreamy that it enraptures your soul; soft instrumentals looping, quite like a choir of nightingale serenading every dreamer in the room. Nothing quite as beautiful, nothing quite as enchanting.

It is just a 5-minute walk from Omotesando station. If you ever find yourself in the area, a trip to the tea house is very highly recommended. Because whatever you are feeling, the sheer beauty and tranquility will complete your day.

Aoyama Flower Market Tea House is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s Top 15 Cafes.

5-1-2, Minami-Aoyama
Minato-ku, Tokyo
Tel: +81 3 3400 0887
Nearest Station: Omotesando

BIRD LAND GINZA

Located in a conspicuous corner at the basement of an unassuming building in Ginza, Bird Land is a discrete yakitori bar where foodies in-the-know head to. There are two omakase menu (¥6,000 or ¥8,000) to choose from. Our set came with skewers of chicken wasabi, chicken liver, chicken skin & neck, tofu salad flavoured with salt and pepper, ginko, glizzard, chicken meatball, teriyaki chicken, shiitake mushroom and chicken with leek.

This is one of the best places in Tokyo to go for yakitori, and where you pay homage to the simple but very well-liked Japanese classic cuisine.

Tsukamoto Building B1F
4-2-15 Ginza, Chuo-ku
Tel: +81 3 5250 1081
Tue To Sat: 5pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Ginza

BROOKLYN PANCAKE HOUSE

If you walk from Shibuya towards Meiji-Jingumae, you will find yourself in a quaint and charming area littered with lifestyle concept stores and cafes. Brooklyn Pancake House is one of the places that we stumbled upon in this area. It is essentially a New-Yorker style diner which offers a variety of sweet and savoury pancakes.

Brooklyn Pancake House is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s Top 15 Cafes.

1F Mode S, 6-14-12 Jingumae
Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Tel: +81 03 3409 2018
Daily: 11.30am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Meiji-Jingumae/Harajuku

BUTAGUMI

This tonkatsu specialist has one of the most comprehensive tonkatsu menus – with at least a dozen varieties of pork – but the daily offerings depend on the availability of the meat. The evergreen options are Ryuuka-ton (¥1,900) from Okinawa, and Nattouku-ton (¥2,300) from Gifu. You can also find other premium meats such as Golden Boar Pork (¥3,000) from Hyougo, Nakijin-agoo-buta (¥4,500) from Okinaa, and the famed Iberico Pork (¥4,800) from Spain.

While tonkatsu is the star at Butagumi, it is not the only reason why you should dine here. The feel of taking off your shoes, and stepping into a typical Japanese wooden booth, having a handbell to ring for service, a table lined with floral-printed China, and a fuss-free Japanese menu (with English option available) – all these little touches complete the experience of dining in a true blue ryotei.

Butagumi is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s best tonkatsu restaurants.

2-24-9 Nishiazabu, Minato
Tokyo, Japan
Tel: +81 3 5466 6775
Tue to Sun: 11.30am – 2pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Roppongi

ECHIRE

We were pleasantly engulfed by the rich fragrance of freshly baked pastries upon stepping in to this French Patisserie at Marunouchi Brick Square. Inhaling the buttery scent with every breath has never felt so life-changing before, and we were bewildered by the offerings before our eyes – think baskets of madelines, financers and croissants; shelves of millefeuille, eclairs and cream puffs.

2-6-1, Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku
Tokyo, Japan
Tel: +81 3 6269 9840
Nearest Station: Tokyo

HENRI CHARPENTIER

This lovely pastry shop in Ginza is a must-visit for dessert lovers. Henri Charpentier is the perfect place to go for tea and desserts after shopping in the area. They serve exceptional desserts and pastries in a classy tea salon. When we were there, we felt like kids in Disneyland. There were so many beautiful desserts on display and we wanted to order everything.

Fans of lemon desserts have to try Henri Charpentier’s Tarte Au Citron. It ranks among one of the best that we’ve had. The baked goods (¥683) – such as such as madeleines, financiers and biscuits – come in nicely-packaged boxes and they make excellent gifts for friends.

Henri Charpentier has just opened its first overseas outlet in Singapore and it is also listed in our guide to Tokyo’s Best Patisseries.

2-8-20 Ginza, Chuo-ku
Tel: +81 3 3562 2721
Station: Ginza-Itchome (metro exit 9) / Ginza (metro exit A13)

HIDEMI SUGINO

It is not exaggerating to say that Hidemi Sugino is one of the best pastry chefs in Tokyo. The patisserie makes beautiful pastries and is particularly known for their mousse cakes. Finding the place is slightly challenging, but once you get there, you will agree that it is worth the search. The popular cakes are always sold out, so make sure you get there early.

Hidemi Sugino is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s Best Patisseries.

3-6-17, Kyobashi 1F, Chuo, Tokyo
Tel: 03 3538 6780
Station: Kyobashi or Ginza 1-Chrome

ICHIRAN RAMEN

Ichiran Ramen is a popular ramen chain in Japan, and it has been widely accepted as one of the best spots for tonkotsu ramen. And we could not agree more wholeheartedly. A bowl of Ichiran ramen is super satisfying, and very affordable (¥780/S$10). It is undisputedly a ramen house that you cannot miss out on when you are in Japan.

Ichiran serves an exceptional tonkotsu ramen, and has most definitely set the benchmark for Japanese ramen. The broth is unbelievably rich, and thick, and something inexplicably but really special that it wows you with every sip (or slurp). It is so good that we are always caught in a situation to decide on whether we should do a second bowl. The noodles are cooked just right, springy and al dente – exactly the way we like my ramen to be. And if this is what you like too, be sure to select the “extra firm” option when you place your order. The chashu is also spot-on; every bite makes me go weak in the knees.

It is, in a nutshell, the perfect bowl of ramen.

Iwamoto Building B1F
1-22-7 Jinnan Sibuya-ku Tokyo
Tel: +81 3 3463 3667
Daily: 24 hours
Nearest Station: Shibuya

IPPUDO RAMEN

Another perennial favourite is Ippudo Ramen. Not only is the ramen consistency good, a bowl of Ippudo ramen in Japan is only ¥750, which is slightly less than half of what you would pay in Singapore.

Odagiri Building 1F
4-9-11 Roppongi Minato-ku, Tokyo
Tel: +81 3 5775 7561
Daily: 11am – 4am (Fri 5am, Sun 1am)
Nearest Station: Roppongi

L’ATELIER DE JOEL ROBUCHON

It is always a pleasure to dine at L’atelier de Joel Robuchon. Take your seat at the counter and watch the chefs prepare your food in the open kitchen. The set lunch (¥6,600) is good value for those who do not want to splurge too much.

6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato, Tokyo
Tel: +81 3 5772 7500
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 9.30pm
Sat, Sun & Holiday: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Roppongi

KATSUKURA

Katsukura is a tonkatsu restaurant chain from Kyoto, and besides pork cutlet, it also offers other options like fried prawns, chicken cutlet, and crab meat croquette.

Among the numerous tonkatsu restaurants in Tokyo, what sets Katsukura apart is their consistency. Even though It has many branches around the city, the tonkatsu is consistently good and reliable. Most importantly, it is also the kind of place you can return to again and again because you do not have to spend a bomb to dine here. The standard Sirloin Cutlet starts from ¥1,350 for 90g, while the Fillet Cutlet is ¥1,480 for 90g.

Katsukura is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s best tonkatsu restaurants.

Shibuya-ku, Sendagaya 5-24-2
Shinjuku Times Square Building 14th Floor
Tokyo, Japan
Tel: +81 3 5361 1878
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Shinjuku

KIMUKATSU

Another place that we really love is Kimukatsu in Ebisu. The tonkatsu here, made up of many thin layers of pork, is more than good – think of it as a pork mille-feuille. Yes, what sorcery, right? In addition to the original tonkatsu, they also have other flavours like cheese, black pepper, green onion, garlic, sour plum and yuzu pepper.

We ordered the cheese version, and it was super satisfying with cheese oozing out of the superbly fried tonkatsu. A tonkatsu set is ¥1,930. Alternatively, you can opt for the Kimukatsu Value Combo – choose any two tonkatsu flavours at ¥2,500 (for 1 pax), or three flavours at ¥3,980 (for 2 pax).

Kimukatsu is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s best tonkatsu restaurants.

4-9-5, Ebisu, Shibuya-ku
Tokyo, Japan
Tel: +81 3 5420 2929
Mon to Thu: 11am – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 11.30pm
Nearest Station: Ebisu

KO-DU-CHI

We stumbled upon this tenshou eatery while on our way to Tenya Tempura in the Ebisu neighbourhood. It is a non-descript eatery – the kind that you will easily miss if you are not looking out for it – where locals go for a fuss-free and cheap meal.

The staff do not speak English at all, so placing your orders might be a challenge. But we believe the food here can’t go wrong, so just look around to observe what the locals order, and point to whatever that looks good. The chances are you will have a very good meal.

1-7-6 Ebisu
Nearest Station: Ebisu

KYUSHU JANGARA RAMEN

Specialising in Hakata tonkotsu ramen, Kyushu Jangara’s rendition comes with a rich, heavy and super flavourful pork broth. We still prefer Ichiran, of course. But if you are in the Harajuku area and want to try something different, Kyushu Jangara is worth a visit.

Shanzeru Harajuku Ni-go-kan 1F-2F
1-13-21 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku
Mon to Thu, & Sun: 11am – 2am
Fri & Sat: 11am – 3.30am
Nearest Station: Jingumae

Maisen Tonkatsu

There are many famous tonkatsu restaurants in Tokyo, but the place that everyone seems to agree is the best place to head to is Maisen Tonkatsu. They have many outlets in Tokyo, but go to the main shop in Aoyama – just a few blocks behind Omotesando Hills.

Located in a former World War II public bathhouse, Maisen is known for its Okita Kurobuta Fried Pork Loin meal (¥3,780). The tonkatsu was really good. The pork cutlet was extremely juicy and crispy, yet not greasy at all. Topped with their special tonkatsu sauce, and served with a bowl of rice and a large stack of cabbage, it was unbeatable.

Maisen Tonkatsu is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s best tonkatsu restaurants.

4-8-5 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku
Tokyo, Japan
Tel: +81 3 3470 0071
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Omotesando

Nemuro Hanamaru

Don’t be deceived by the plain-looking conveyer belt sushi restaurant at Kitte Shopping Mall, which is a few minutes walk from Tokyo Station. Nemuro Hanamaru serves fresh sushi at great value. Most of the sushi plates are priced between ¥136 to ¥336. One of our favourites was the Seared Salmon (¥262). From the side menu, the Crab Soup (¥336) – with huge chunks of crab meat – and the Chawanmushi (¥262) are also excellent choices.

Nemuro Hanamaru is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s affordable sushi restaurants.

Tokyo KITTE 5F
2-7-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku
Tel: +81 03 6269 9026
Mon to Sat: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Tokyo

NIHONBASHI YUKARI

Having a kaiseki meal in Tokyo need not leave a hole in your wallet – if you know where to go. Nihonbashi Yukari, just a short walk from Tokyo Station’s Yaesu exit, is one of our favourite restaurants in Tokyo.

Helming the kitchen is third-generation chef, Kimio Nonaga – a 2002 Iron Chef Champion. Nihonbashi Yukari offers a splendid 9-course kaiseki dinner (starts from ¥10,500). For something lighter on the palate (and the pocket), go for the their bento set lunch (¥3,500) which offers great value.

3-2-14, Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Tel: +81 3 3271 3436
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 2pm, 5pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tokyo

Omotesando Koffee

This is one of the most talked-about coffee shops in Tokyo, and after visiting it, we can understand why. Housed in a machiya (traditional wooden house) in the Omotesando neighbourhood, it is a small and simple space, and it feels as though you are having coffee in a neighbour’s house.

Finding Omotesando Koffee can be a challenge, even if you are familiar with the area. From Omotesando’s Station, make your way towards Maisen Tonkatsu (there are plenty of signboards along the way). At the junction before Maisen, turn left. Part of the charm of Omotesando Koffee is the journey to find it. Have fun!

Omotesando Koffee is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s best coffee shops.

4-15-3 Jingumae
Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Tel: +81 03 5413 9422
Daily: 10pm – 7pm
Nearest Station: Omotesando Exit A2/Meiji-Jingumae

ON THE CORNER

Sharing a space with No.8 Bear Pond, On The Corner is another American-style diner that dishes burgers and all the known comfort food. Boasting a red and white interior, the outlet is a cosy one and you can count on them for a good dinner with your best pals.

1-17-1, Shibuya
Tel: +81 03 6427 7273
Daily: 9am – 2am
Nearest Station: Shibuya

Ryu Sushi

A trip to Tokyo will not be complete without having sushi breakfast at the world famous Tsukiji Fish Market. Sushi Dai and Sushi Daiwa are the most popular sushi restaurants at the fish market. However, people wait in line from as early as 6am, and the queue is easily three hours long. Honestly, we felt that the other sushi bars in Tsukiji Market are just as good.

One place that you can try is Ryu Sushi. It has super good and fresh sashimi and sushi at decent prices. The Kiku Sushi Set (¥2,100) comes with 7 pieces of sushi, and 6 pieces of sushi rolls, and a beautiful Chirashi (¥3,100).

Ryu Sushi is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s affordable sushi restaurants.

5-2-1, Building 1. Chuo-ku
Tsukiji Market, Tokyo
Tel: +81 03 3541 9517
Nearest Station: Tsukiji/Tsukijishijo

Sadaharu Aoki

Nobody should leave Tokyo without visiting Sadaharu Aoki. This famous Japanese-trained pastry chef made his name by creating French desserts with Japanese flavours.

You won’t go wrong with the Japanese flavoured macarons like sesame, matcha, yuzu and genmaicha. And their eclairs… Oh, the eclairs are awesome. Sadaharu Aoki has, hands down, the best eclairs in this world, if not the universe.

Sadaharu Aoki is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s Best Patisseries.

Tokyo Midtown B1F
9-7-4 Akasaka Minato-ku Tokyo
Station: Roppongi

SHOKKAN

A short walk from Shibuya Police Station is Shokkan. Located in the basement of a random building in the Shibuya neighbourhood, Shokkan has value-for-money set lunches (¥1,100 – ¥1,300). It is always packed during lunch, so make sure you get there 5 minutes before their opening.

For dinner, omakase starts from ¥7,000.

3-5-5 Shibuya B1F Hkka
Tel: +81 3 3797 1911
Mon to Fri: 11.45am – 2pm, 6pm – 12 midnight
Sat & Holiday: 6pm – 11pm

SUZU CAFE

Another favourite spot in Tokyo, Suzu Café is quite above the rest – pun intended. Apart from people-watching and indulging in Japanese tracks, Suzu Cafe offers a range of earnest and simple comfort food at sensible prices (from ¥750 – ¥1300) – expect salads, rice dishes, pizzas and pastas.

Partake in an afternoon tea (from 2pm to 6pm) at Suzu, with a repertoire of desserts (¥650 – ¥750) like Victoria Cake with homemade lemon curd, Kiwi & Apricot Shortcake and Chocolate Parfait to choose from.

Suzu Cafe is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s Top 15 Cafes.

1-20-5 Jinnan
Shibuya, Tokyo
Tel: +81 3 5428 3739
Sun to Thu: 11.30am – 12 midnight
Fri & Sat: 11.30am – 3am
Nearest Station: Meiji-Jingumae/Harajuku

STREAMER COFFEE COMPANY

This is one of the most popular coffee shops in Tokyo – the owner Hiroshi Sawada is a latte art champion and a rock star in the local coffee scene. Even though Streamer Coffee Company is located on the fringe of the Shibuya neighbourhood – a good 10 minutes walk from the station – it is always crowded and packed with locals and expats. Every cup of coffee comes with beautiful latte art.

With good coffee with beautiful latte art, and a buzzing atmosphere, Streamer Coffee Company is one place that coffee lovers must go to when in Tokyo.

Streamer Coffee Company is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s Best Coffee Shops.

1-20-28 Shibuya
Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Tel: +81 03 6427 3705
Mon to Fri: 8am – 6pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Shibuya

Tempura Tendon Tenya

The poster boy for cheap and good tempura, Tenya is a fastfood chain with more than 500 stores in Japan. A basic Tendon (tempura-donburi) with ebi and vegetable is only ¥500.

We were in disbelief when we had the tendon. It might not be the best tempura, but it was very decent, and surely a steal for the price. This is probably the cheapest tempura restaurant in Tokyo, a place where you can have tempura without breaking the bank.

Tempura Tendon Tenya is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s affordable tempura restaurants.

1-25-1 Nishishinjuku
Shinjuku
Tel: +81 3 3345 1266
Nearest Station: Shinjuku

Tenfusu Tempura

Most people go to Tsukiji Market for sushi breakfast, but if you want to try something else, go to Tenfusu – which is located just beside Sushi Dai and Sushi Daiwa – for their tempura. The tempura is top quality. It is fried to a beautiful golden brown, and not oily at all. Go for their Tempura Platter (¥1,200), and Tempura-don (¥1,100).

Tenfusu Tempura is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s affordable tempura restaurants.

5-2-1, Building 6
Chuo-ku, Tsukiji Market, Tokyo
Tel: +81 3 3547 6766
Nearest Station: Tsukiji/Tsukijishijo

Tonki

Tonki opens at 4pm everyday, and such is the popularity of their tonkatsu, that the restaurant is almost filled even before dinner time.

Unlike some tonkatsu restaurants which offer all sorts of cuts and variations, Tonki is simple and straight to the point – either rosu or fillet, in other words, you choose the lean or the slightl fatty option. Both are priced at ¥1,800 for teishoku with rice, miso soup and pickles, or ¥1,250 for an ala carte portion.

Tonki’s version is very different from the usual tonkatsu that we are familiar with. It is not as crispy, nor is it crumbly. The slow-cooking process means that the meat inside is not as juicy or tender as the typical tonkatsu. It has a very real and unpretentious taste which is probably why regulars go back to this 70 years old house for a good and solid tonkatsu. Most of the customers at Tonki are in fact middle-aged Japanese, who most probably grew up eating the tonkatsu here.

Tonki is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s best tonkatsu restaurants.

1-1-2 Shimo-Meguro, Meguro-ku
Tokyo, Japan
Tel: +81 3 3491 9928
Daily (except Tue): 4pm – 10.45pm
Nearest Station: Meguro

UDON YAMACHO

For a simple and affordable meal, try Udon Yamacho. This udon shop is a 3-minute walk from the west entrance of Ebisu station, and it is the kind of place to go for a local authentic meal without worrying that it is a tourist trap. Prices range from ¥800 to ¥1,200 for a bowl of udon.

1-1-5, Ebisu, Shibuya-ku
Tokyo, Japan
Tel: +81 3 3443 1701
Daily: 11.30am – 4pm, 5pm – 4.30am
Nearest Station: Ebisu

Uoriki Kaisen Sushi

Uoriki Kaisen Sushi is a place where we will return to again and again whenever we are in Tokyo. It does not have any Michelin stars, nor is it extremely popular. But it offers super good quality sushi and sashimi at ridiculously cheap prices.

The basic Sushi Set (¥990), with ten pieces of sushi, is extremely value-for-money. Our favourite dish is the Chirashi-don (¥1,390) which comes with huge slices of sashimi. Uoriki Kaisen Sushi is a hidden gem and one of the most affordable sushi restaurants in Tokyo. We wholeheartedly recommend this place.

Uoriki Kaisen Sushi is listed in our guide to Tokyo’s affordable sushi restaurants.

B1 Tokyu Department Store
2-24-1 Shibuya
Tel: +81 03 5428 3813
Daily: 10am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Shibuya

For more recommendations, read our guide on 25 reasons to love Tokyo.