Tokyo is a food lover’s paradise, where every meal is an adventure and each bite tells a story. In a city that never sleeps, where tradition meets innovation, the culinary scene is nothing short of spectacular. From hidden gems tucked away in narrow alleys to world-renowned establishments, Tokyo’s restaurants offer a dining experience like no other. Whether you’re a sushi connoisseur, a ramen enthusiast, or someone looking to indulge in the finest kaiseki cuisine, this guide to the 15 best restaurants in Tokyo will take you on a journey through the heart of Japan’s vibrant food culture.
Our Selection of 15 Best Restaurants in Tokyo
Get ready to uncover the secrets of Tokyo’s dining bliss, one unforgettable meal at a time.
1. Sushi Tsubomi
Sushi Tsubomi, an offshoot of the famed Sushi Saito, showcases the talents of Takashi Saito’s apprentices in the serene Higashiyama neighbourhood. Helmed by Keiya Kawaguchi, the intimate 10-seat counter crafted from Kiso cypress sets the stage for an exquisite Edomae-style omakase experience. Each dish, from Hokkaido mantis shrimp to perfectly marinated butterfish, highlights seasonal ingredients and meticulous technique.
Kawaguchi’s mastery is evident in his nigiri, featuring tuna from Yamayuki and delicate red squid with sudachi citrus. Sushi Tsubomi also boasts an impressive sake selection, including rare vintages like Eshikoto Tokoshie. Blending tradition with innovation, Sushi Tsubomi offers an unforgettable dining journey.
Sushi Tsubomi
Operating Hours: 06:00 pm – 11:00 pm (Closed on Wednesdays)
Address: 1F, 1 Chome-21-26 Higashiyama, Meguro City, Tokyo 153-0043, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website | Instagram
2. Kaiseki Komuro
Immerse yourself in the serene elegance of Kaiseki Komuro, a two-star restaurant offering authentic cha-kaiseki cuisine. Since 2000, Chef Mitsuhiro Komuro’s seasonal dishes, presented on exquisite antique tableware, have enchanted urban gourmands. Located in Kagurazaka, the sukiya-style restaurant features a 10-seat counter and private rooms, all designed by Kyoto architect Tetsu Kijima.
Komuro, formerly a catering chef for the Enshu-ryu tea school, crafts an evolving omakase menu. Highlights include a sea urchin appetiser in tomato jelly, grilled sweetfish, and pike conger rice. The exclusive sake selection and Komuro’s collection of fine tableware further elevate the dining experience, making every visit a celebration of Japan’s culinary artistry.
Kaiseki Komuro
Operating Hours: 12:00 pm – 01:00 pm, 06:00 pm – 08:00 pm (Closed on Sundays)
Address: 35-4 Wakamiyacho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 162-0827, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website | Instagram
3. Yakitori Kumawaki
Nestled in the Azabudai Hills complex, Yakitori Kumawaki is Toshiyasu Kumawaki’s latest venture, offering the exclusive Kyukyoku-dori chicken—a Kagoshima breed previously available only at his members-only clubs. Head chef Shoji Kotaki leads the team in creating a fine-dining yakitori experience, with dishes like chicken tartar and fugu-mune skewers converting first-time guests into devoted fans.
The elegant restaurant features a 12-seat wooden counter around an open kitchen and a private room for six. The custom-made grill infuses each skewer with a smoky flavour, with highlights including the tender fugu-mune breast and crispy-skinned dakimi skewers. Complemented by a curated sake selection and exquisite tableware, Yakitori Kumawaki transforms traditional yakitori into an unforgettable culinary journey.
Yakitori Kumawaki
Operating Hours: 05:00 pm – 11:00 pm (Monday – Friday) | 11:30 am – 02:30 pm, 05:00 pm – 11:00 pm (Saturday – Sunday)
Address: Azabudai Hills Tower Plaza 3F, 1 Chome-6-19 Azabudai, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0041, Japan
4. Vegetarian meal Daigo
Shojinryori Daigo offers a quintessential traditional Japanese dining experience in Tokyo, perfect for vegans and those seeking a serene atmosphere. Established in 1950 at the base of Mt. Atago, this two-star restaurant combines a tranquil Japanese garden, the aroma of incense, and warm hospitality. Each group dines in a private room overlooking the garden, with seasonal flowers and calligraphy enhancing the ambience.
Chef Yusuke Nomura continues the tradition of Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, serving a kaiseki-style meal that reflects the changing seasons. Signature dishes include melt-in-the-mouth Kamo eggplant and hassun platters that capture the essence of the moment. The restaurant’s extensive drink selection features over 100 types of whiskey and exquisite wines, offering a complete and unforgettable dining experience.
Vegetarian meal Daigo
Operating Hours: 11:30 am – 03:30 pm, 05:00 pm – 10:30 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 2 Chome-3-1 Atago, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0002, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website
5. Ponchiken
Ponchiken, awarded a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide, is a must-visit destination for tonkatsu aficionados in Ogawamachi. This unassuming eatery specialises in perfectly crispy pork cutlets made from two types of pork known for their distinct umami flavours. Each cutlet is meticulously prepared with fresh breadcrumbs and vegetable oil to bring out its natural taste, allowing diners to customise their experience with salt and a variety of sauces.
Tonkatsu, a beloved Japanese dish inspired by European schnitzel, finds its pinnacle at Ponchiken with options like crispy pork loin (rosu katsu) and thicker fillet cuts (hire katsu). Accompanied by a slightly spicy special sauce and French salt infused with nori, these cutlets offer a delightful blend of crunch and juiciness. Be prepared for queues, particularly during lunch when salarymen and families alike gather to savour the set menu, which includes unlimited shredded cabbage, house pickles, miso soup, and rice. For those seeking variety, Ponchiken also offers renowned katsu curry and tonkatsu sandwiches, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience that lives up to its Michelin distinction.
Ponchiken
Operating Hours: 11:15 am – 02:00 pm, 05:30 pm – 08:30 pm (Closed on Wednesdays and Sundays)
Address: 2-8 Kandaogawamachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0052, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website
6. Tempura Yaguchi
Located in the heart of Tokyo’s historic Ningyocho district, Tempura Yaguchi is a revered destination for lovers of Edomae-style tempura. With over two decades of dedication to his craft, Chef Kazuki Yaguchi, mentored by Tetsuya Saotome of Mikawa Zezankyo, brings a meticulous approach to frying. Each dish, from delicate shrimp to creamy sea urchin, showcases seasonal ingredients sourced for their freshness and quality.
Entering Tempura Yaguchi is an immersive experience in Japanese culinary artistry. The interior, adorned with classic designs and Ise katagami paper stencils, sets the stage for an intimate dining affair centred around a curved counter overlooking the bustling open kitchen. Here, Yaguchi’s mastery shines as he carefully controls every aspect of the tempura-making process, ensuring each piece is perfectly crisp and flavorful. Complemented by a thoughtfully curated selection of local sakes, fine wines, and whiskey highballs, a visit to Tempura Yaguchi promises not only exceptional food but also a journey into the rich traditions of Japanese cuisine, celebrated with every bite.
Tempura Yaguchi
Operating Hours: 12:00 pm – 02:30 am (Closed on Thursdays)
Address: 2-9-7 Nihombashiningyocho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 103-0013, Japan
7. RyuGin
RyuGin, nestled near the Imperial Palace, epitomises Japanese culinary excellence with its three Michelin stars. Chef Seiji Yamamoto, clad in the Japanese flag, blends spirituality and scientific innovation into his cuisine. His approach to ryori, or cuisine, is deeply rooted in discernment and precision, aiming to pioneer a new era in Japanese gastronomy. The restaurant’s name, RyuGin, derives from a Zen proverb: “When the dragon sings, clouds form,” symbolising leadership in Japan’s culinary evolution.
Originally established in Roppongi in 2003, RyuGin relocated to the prestigious TOKYO Midtown Hibiya in 2018. Yamamoto’s culinary journey is a testament to his commitment to showcasing the best of Japan’s ingredients, harmonising tradition with innovation. Each dish crafted under his meticulous care reflects not just a meal but a profound cultural experience, a dedication to excellence that mirrors a national duty.
RyuGin
Operating Hours: 06:00 pm – 11:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 7F, Tokyo Midtown Hibiya, 1-1-2 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-0006, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website
8. Ichiu
Ichiu, nestled in the charming Kagurazaka district, is a newly opened gem offering a refined omakase experience. Chef Koichi Hamano, whose resume includes prestigious spots like Akasaka Kikunoi and Sushi Senpachi, brings his mastery of traditional Japanese cuisine and sushi to this intimate setting. The restaurant’s name, meaning “under one roof,” reflects its philosophy of bringing people together in a warm and welcoming environment. Decorated with intricate details like a roof-shaped ceiling and bespoke Kyoto ropes, Ichiu immerses guests in a blend of elegance and comfort from the moment they enter.
The dining experience at Ichiu unfolds with meticulous care, beginning with a welcome cup of sake followed by a progression of meticulously crafted dishes. From savoury dashi-based starters to delicate nigiri sushi made with steamed al dente rice and premium seafood sourced directly from Kumamoto and Toyosu Market, each course is a testament to Chef Hamano’s dedication to quality and flavour. Guests are treated to unexpected delights like seasonal sashimi, exquisitely prepared tempura, and innovative desserts that offer a refreshing twist on traditional Japanese sweets. With its thoughtful details and exceptional culinary offerings, Ichiu promises an unforgettable dining journey steeped in Japanese culinary tradition and innovation.
Ichiu
Operating Hours: 05:30 pm – 11:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 2-22 Kagurazaka, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-0825, Japan
Visit Them Via: Instagram
9. Kohaku
Kohaku, nestled in Kagurazaka, features Japan’s youngest three-star chef, Koji Koizumi, renowned for blending traditional Japanese flavours with global influences. The restaurant’s serene ambience, with bamboo-lined façades and a minimalist interior of cream sliding doors, seamlessly merges modernity with tradition. Chef Koizumi’s cuisine at Kohaku exemplifies his artistry, integrating ingredients like butter, truffles, and Shaoxing wine into classic Japanese dishes. For instance, his nodoguro blackthroat seaperch shinjo dumpling, charcoal-grilled for enhanced aroma, showcases his mastery in redefining flavours with innovative twists.
Each dish reflects Koizumi’s meticulous sourcing of seasonal ingredients, often procured directly from Japan’s top suppliers, ensuring a culinary journey that celebrates both tradition and creativity. Kohaku not only delights with its culinary inventiveness but also with its deep respect for ingredients and their origins. Koizumi’s attention to detail, from handpicked tableware to his profound connection with local producers, underscores his commitment to delivering a dining experience that is both profound and unforgettable, establishing Kohaku as a standout in Tokyo’s vibrant gastronomic landscape.
Kohaku
Operating Hours: 05:00 pm – 12:00 am (Tuesday – Friday)
Address: 3-5-5 Kagurazaka, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-0825, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website | Instagram
10. Yamazaki
Yamazaki, situated in Nogizaka’s Nishiazabu district, offers a refined Japanese dining experience curated by a masterful chef deeply rooted in tradition. The restaurant’s serene ambience, marked by seasonal noren curtains and an L-shaped hinoki cypress counter, sets the stage for a culinary journey celebrated for its precision and innovation. Here, the chef’s craftsmanship shines as he expertly grills a diverse array of ingredients, from softshell turtles to seasonal vegetables, before diners’ eyes, ensuring each dish is a testament to his culinary finesse.
The tasting course at Yamazaki unfolds meticulously, avoiding repetition in ingredients and techniques while maintaining a balanced progression from steamed rice and soups to grilled delicacies and signature dishes like chargrilled softshell turtle. Each course, meticulously curated with dishes like Ise-ebi lobster and Amadai tilefish, showcases the chef’s dedication to clarity and depth of flavour, culminating in desserts that harmonise textures and tastes. Complemented by a thoughtfully curated selection of wines and sakes, chosen by the in-house sommelier, Yamazaki promises an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates Japanese culinary heritage with a touch of modern creativity and precision.
Yamazaki
Operating Hours: 05:30 pm – 08:30 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: Nishiazabu UOU building 1F,, 1-15-3, Nishiazabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website
11. Kagurazaka Ishikawa
Kagurazaka Ishikawa, a three-star kaiseki gem, epitomises Chef Hideki Ishikawa’s mastery of Japanese culinary finesse. Tucked away near Bishamon Temple in Kagurazaka, the restaurant exudes tranquillity with its traditional wooden passages and serene sunken pond. Ishikawa’s cuisine artfully blends seasonal ingredients into dishes that surprise them with their delicate flavours and meticulous preparation.
Hospitality is central at Ishikawa, where guests are welcomed with warm smiles and served on elegant lacquerware trays. Whether dining at the counter or in private rooms, diners experience a culinary journey through the seasons, from refreshing summer offerings to comforting winter delights. Ishikawa’s dedication to sourcing local ingredients and his appreciation for artisanal tableware ensure each dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight, reflecting his profound respect for Japanese aesthetics and culinary tradition.
Kagurazaka Ishikawa
Operating Hours: 05:00 pm – 12:00 am (Tuesday – Friday) | 12:00 pm – 12:00 am (Saturday) | Closed on Sunday
Address: 5-37 Kagurazaka, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-0825, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website
12. Nikuya Tanaka Ginza
Nikuya Tanaka Ginza stands as a beacon for wagyu aficionados, led by the expertise of Satoru Tanaka in Japanese meat cuisine. Situated on Ginza’s ninth floor, the restaurant’s Yasumichi Morita-designed ambience blends luxurious lacquered materials with natural timber, embodying Japan’s essence. With seating limited to a nine-seat counter and a private room for four, the exclusivity enhances the dining experience, centred around Tanaka’s skilful preparation of Jun Tajima-gyu beef.
Each course at Nikuya Tanaka Ginza is a testament to Tanaka’s reverence for wagyu, employing traditional techniques to highlight its unparalleled quality. From the savoury snow-crab-filled dumplings to the aged Tajima-gyu Chateaubriand steak, every dish is a symphony of flavours and textures. Tanaka’s dedication extends to selecting the finest seasonal ingredients, ensuring each dish is a masterpiece of Japanese culinary artistry, complemented by a curated selection of fine wines and impeccable service. This makes it a must-visit for discerning food connoisseurs seeking the pinnacle of wagyu dining in Tokyo’s prestigious Ginza district.
Nikuya Tanaka Ginza
Operating Hours: 05:00 pm – 11:00 pm (Closed on Sundays)
Address: 6-102 Ginza,Chuo-ku, Tokyo-to 104-0061 Japan
Visit Them Via: Website | Instagram
13. Kioicho Fukuday
Kioicho Fukudaya epitomises the essence of traditional Japanese haute cuisine, or kaiseki ryori, with a distinguished two-star rating in the MICHELIN Guide. Founded in 1939 and now overseen by the grandson of its original owner, Fukudaya maintains a commitment to culinary excellence rooted in respect for ingredients. The restaurant’s discreet entrance belies the understated quality within, featuring tatami-mat rooms adorned with paper screens and horikotatsu seating for intimate dining experiences.
Under the meticulous guidance of its current chef, Fukudaya honours the teachings of legendary epicure Kitaoji Rosanjin, emphasising the pivotal role of superior ingredients in creating exceptional dishes. Each course, meticulously served by kimono-clad waitstaff, presents seasonal delicacies crafted with precision and artistry. From sea urchin-topped tofu to delicately prepared sashimi and tempura, every bite reflects Fukudaya’s dedication to culinary perfection and Japanese culinary tradition. While dining at Fukudaya comes at a premium, it promises an unforgettable gastronomic journey worthy of its reputation as one of Tokyo’s finest dining establishments.
Kioicho Fukudaya
Operating Hours: 11:30 am -02:30 pm, 05:30 pm – 07:30 pm (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
Address: 1-13 Kioicho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0094, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website | Facebook | Instagram
14. Nikushabuya Subin
Nestled in the heart of Ginza, Tokyo Niku Shabuya Subin offers an exquisite dining experience for aficionados of Tajimaguro, a rare and prized breed of Kobe beef. Opened in 2023 as a sister establishment to Chef Ko ChungSin’s renowned Shinjuku restaurant, Subin delights guests with its meticulously crafted menu centred around this legendary wagyu. From the velvety tail soup to the delicately sliced shabu shabu, each dish showcases the unparalleled quality of Tajimaguro, renowned for its buttery texture and rich, marbled flavour that melts at a lower temperature than other wagyu varieties.
The restaurant’s elegant ambience enhances the culinary journey, featuring a long black keyaki wood counter for intimate dining and private rooms adorned with exquisite glassware and pottery. Subin’s commitment to excellence extends to its selection of fine wines and rare sake, curated to complement the exceptional flavours of its signature dishes. With an emphasis on organic produce and meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of the dining experience, Tokyo Niku Shabuya Subin invites guests to indulge in the pinnacle of Japanese beef cuisine amidst a setting reminiscent of a private art gallery.
Nikushabuya Subin
Operating Hours: 12:00 pm – 02:30 pm, 06:00 pm – 11:00 pm (Tuesday – Thursday) | 06:00 pm – 11:00 pm (Monday and Friday) | Closed on Saturdays and Sundays
Address: BIF Ginza 8bankan, 8-6-20, Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
15. Kaiseki Tsujitome
Located in Tokyo’s Motoakasaka, Kaiseki Tsujitome, a Michelin-starred establishment, has deep roots originating in Kyoto back in 1902 under founder Tomejiro Tsuji. Specialising in cha-kaiseki cuisine from the Urasenke School of Tea, this serene oasis amidst Tokyo’s bustling office buildings offers a refined dining experience. Led by third-generation proprietor Yoshikazu Tsuji, mentored by the renowned Rosanjin Kitaoji, the restaurant is celebrated for its ‘one soup, three sides’ approach featuring seasonal ingredients meticulously sourced from trusted suppliers.
The menu at Tsujitome unfolds with delicate sashimi starters and progresses to signature dishes like the “Peony Pike Conger” and the “Hamokawa Bowl,” each dish crafted with meticulous care and imbued with cultural significance. The restaurant’s ambience is enhanced by the presence of Rosanjin Kitaoji’s ceramics, hanging scrolls, and calligraphy, creating an ideal setting for both intimate gatherings and formal business meetings. Kaiseki Tsujitome invites guests to savour not only exquisite Japanese cuisine but also to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage and artistic expression that define its dining experience.
Kaiseki Tsujitome
Operating Hours: 12:00 pm – 02:00 pm, 05:00 pm – 09:00 pm (Closed on Sundays)
Address: B1F, 1-5-8 Motoakasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-0051, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website
Conclusion
Embark on a culinary journey through Tokyo’s vibrant dining scene and discover unparalleled gastronomic delights. From centuries-old traditions to modern flair, each venue offers a unique blend of flavours, ambience, and cultural richness. Whether seeking Michelin-starred excellence or intimate, hidden gems, Tokyo’s diverse eateries promise unforgettable experiences. Indulge in meticulously prepared dishes, accompanied by impeccable service and artistic presentation, making every dining occasion a celebration of Japan’s culinary prowess and hospitality.