10 Must-Try Japanese Foods in Tokyo: Michelin-Recommended Restaurants
- Patia
- Sep 1
- 12 min read
Updated: Sep 16
Tokyo is often called the world’s greatest food city—and for good reason. From centuries-old traditions like sushi and soba to casual comfort foods such as ramen and yakitori, the city offers a dining experience that blends history, culture, and innovation. Exploring Tokyo’s food scene is not just about eating; it’s about experiencing the soul of Japan through its flavors.
But with thousands of restaurants to choose from, it can be overwhelming for visitors to decide where to go. That’s why choosing a restaurant recognized by the Michelin Guide Tokyo 2025 is the safest way to ensure both quality and authenticity.
In this guide, we’ve selected 10 must-try Japanese dishes in Tokyo, each paired with a restaurant proudly listed in the Michelin Guide Tokyo 2025, earning either a star or Bib Gourmand distinction. These places represent the best of Tokyo’s diverse culinary landscape, offering you an unforgettable dining experience during your stay.
If you want to taste the very best of Japan, let this list be your guide to Tokyo’s most iconic and trustworthy food spots.
Table of Contents
1. Sushi
Sushi is Japan’s most iconic dish, combining vinegared rice with fresh seafood and other ingredients. In Tokyo, you can experience everything from casual conveyor-belt sushi to Michelin-starred sushi bars where chefs craft each piece with precision. What makes sushi in Japan unforgettable is the extraordinary freshness of the fish and the delicate balance of flavor and texture in every bite.
Sano Sushi – 1 Michelin Star
Located just a 2-minute walk from Shibakoen Station, Sano Sushi is an intimate 7-seat sushi bar run by a skilled husband-and-wife team. The warm, homey atmosphere makes it a relaxing place to enjoy top-tier Edomae sushi. The rare cuts of tuna, sourced from a prestigious wholesaler, are exceptional—from lean to fatty cuts. The rose-tinted rice, known for its distinct acidity, is highly regarded by sushi connoisseurs and pairs beautifully with the generously sliced fish. The seasonal appetizers and à la carte options reflect the chef’s meticulous attention to detail. With a reservation-only policy, you can enjoy a peaceful, high-quality dining experience without the wait. This hidden gem is gaining recognition for the chef’s unique personality and refined techniques, making it a must-visit for sushi lovers.
Opening Hours
Lunch: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM (all guests start at 12:00 PM)
Dinner: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM (last entry at 8:30 PM)
Closed: Irregular holidays Reservation only
Access
About 2 minutes on foot from Shiba-Koen Station (Toei Mita Line), Exit A1
About 12 minutes on foot from Tamachi Station (Mita Exit / West Exit)
Map
Budget
Lunch: ¥10,000 – ¥15,000
Dinner: ¥20,000 – ¥40,000
2. Ramen
Ramen is a beloved comfort food in Japan, featuring springy noodles in a flavorful broth. Each region has its own style, but in Tokyo, you can find everything from rich pork-based tonkotsu ramen to lighter soy sauce or miso varieties. Toppings like soft-boiled eggs, sliced pork, and seaweed complete the bowl, making it both hearty and satisfying.
Ramen Matsui – Bib Gourmand
Located near Shinjuku Gyoen, Ramen Matsui is run by a husband-and-wife team, with the chef originally hailing from Hokkaido. The restaurant is known for its three carefully crafted broths—soy sauce, salt, and dried sardine—each made with premium ingredients sourced from Hokkaido. What makes the experience even more distinctive is the sommelier-certified hostess, who curates wine and sake pairings to complement each bowl. Recognized in the Michelin Guide, Ramen Matsui has earned the admiration of ramen enthusiasts for its refined flavors and dedication to quality.
Opening Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and National Holidays: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Closed: Wednesday & Thursday
Reservation only
Access
About 6 minutes on foot from Shinjuku Gyoen-mae Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
About 10 minutes on foot from Akebonobashi Station (Toei Shinjuku Line)
About 7 minutes on foot from Yotsuya-Sanchome Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
Map
Budget
¥2,000 – ¥3,000
3. Tempura
Tempura is a light and crispy dish of seafood and vegetables dipped in a delicate batter and fried to perfection. What sets Japanese tempura apart is the incredibly airy coating, which highlights the natural flavors of the ingredients without being too heavy. Served with dipping sauce or sprinkled with salt, it’s an elegant yet comforting dish.
Tempura Kondo – 2 Michelin Stars
Located in Ginza, Tempura Kondo is renowned for elevating tempura into a fine dining experience. Chef Fumio Kondo has spent decades perfecting his craft, believing that tempura is not only fried but also gently “steamed” by the residual heat trapped in the batter. This technique enhances the ingredient’s inherent taste and texture, offering a dish that is both light and profoundly flavorful.
Kondo revolutionized the tempura world by incorporating seasonal vegetables—once considered unsuitable for high-end tempura—into his menu. His courses now highlight the beauty of Japan’s produce as much as its seafood. Among his signature creations is the legendary sweet potato tempura: a thick, log-like cut fried slowly for nearly 30 minutes to lock in its moisture and natural sweetness. This dish alone has become a culinary icon and a must-try for visitors.
Opening Hours
Lunch: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM (two seatings : 12:00 PM or 1:30 PM)
Dinner: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Four seating times: 5:00 PM / 6:00 PM / 7:00 PM / 8:00 PM
Each seating is limited to 2 hours
Closed: Sundays (closed on Monday if it is a national holiday) Reservation only
Access
About 5 minutes on foot from Ginza Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza, Marunouchi, and Hibiya Lines)
Map
Budget
Lunch: ¥10,000 – ¥15,000
Dinner: ¥20,000 – ¥30,000
4. Wagyu (Japanese Beef)
Wagyu beef is world-famous for its intense marbling, tenderness, and melt-in-your-mouth texture. In Tokyo, you can savor Wagyu in a variety of styles, from sizzling yakiniku barbecue to luxurious steak or sukiyaki hotpot. Every bite showcases the richness and depth of flavor that has made Wagyu one of Japan’s most sought-after delicacies.
Oniku Karyu – 1 Michelin Star
Tucked away in the quiet streets of Nihonbashi, Oniku Karyu is a rare Japanese restaurant dedicated entirely to wagyu kaiseki. Chef Haruka Katayanagi elevates A4–A5 grade kuroge wagyu into a multi-course dining experience, where each dish—from sashimi-style beef wrapped with Hokkaido sea urchin to sukiyaki and shabu-shabu—highlights the ingredient’s natural elegance.
Every cut is carefully selected, aged in-house, and served at its peak flavor. With its intimate counter and private table seating, the restaurant combines refined technique, seasonal creativity, and warm hospitality, making it an exceptional destination for anyone wishing to savor wagyu at its finest.
Opening Hours
Monday – Thursday: 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM (last entry)
Friday & Saturday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM (last entry)
Closed: Sundays & National Holidays Reservation only
Access
About 2 minutes on foot from Ginza-itchome Station
About 3 minutes on foot from Takaracho Station
About 5 minutes on foot from Higashi-Ginza Station
About 6 minutes on foot from Ginza Station
Map
Budget
¥30,000 – ¥40,000
5. Tonkatsu
Tonkatsu is a breaded, deep-fried pork cutlet that’s crispy on the outside and juicy inside. Usually served with shredded cabbage, rice, and miso soup, it’s a hearty and satisfying dish. The contrast between the crunchy coating and tender pork makes Tonkatsu a favorite for both locals and visitors alike.
Tonkatsu Narikura – Bib Gourmand
Located a short walk from Minami-Asagaya Station, Narikura is one of Tokyo’s most sought-after tonkatsu restaurants, famous for its reservations-only policy and nationwide fanbase. What makes Narikura unique is its signature “white coating”—a delicate crust that stays pale even after frying.
Instead of standard breadcrumbs, the chef uses a special type with reduced sugar content, preventing the crust from browning too quickly. The coating is applied in a way that allows the crumbs to rise lightly in the oil, creating a crisp yet airy texture. The cutlets are then slowly fried at a low temperature, ensuring the pork remains exceptionally juicy while the crust stays light and crunchy.
This meticulous process results in a one-of-a-kind tonkatsu experience that leaves a lasting impression on every guest.
Opening Hours
Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays, and the day before/after National Holidays
Lunch: 10:30 AM – 1:40 PM
Dinner: 5:30 PM – 8:40 PM
Closed: Monday, Tuesday & Friday
Reservation only
Access
About 6 minutes on foot from Minami-Asagaya Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
Map
Budget
¥6,000 – ¥8,000
6. Yakitori
Yakitori refers to skewered chicken grilled over charcoal, often seasoned with salt or a savory-sweet tare sauce. From casual street stalls to specialty restaurants, yakitori offers a fun way to enjoy different cuts of chicken, from tender thighs to crispy skin. Pair it with a cold beer or sake for an authentic Tokyo night out.
Yakitori Takahashi – 1 Michelin Star
Among the very few Michelin-starred yakitori restaurants in Tokyo, Yakitori Takahashi in Nihonbashi stands out for its elegance and craftsmanship. Centered around the prized Tanzawa Shigure chicken, each skewer is grilled with meticulous precision, balancing tenderness with a subtle smoky aroma. The restaurant offers only one omakase course (¥12,000), which includes not just skewers but also refined appetizers, small plates, and a comforting chicken soup, showcasing the chef’s dedication to every detail.
Opening Hours
Monday – Friday: 5:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Saturday & National Holidays: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Closed: Sundays & Thursdays Reservation only
Access
1 minute on foot from Nihombashi Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line), Exit B4/C4
Map
Budget
¥15,000 – ¥20,000
7. Soba
Soba are thin noodles made from buckwheat, enjoyed hot in a savory broth or cold with a dipping sauce. Nutty in flavor and lighter than ramen, soba has been part of Japanese cuisine for centuries. Many soba restaurants in Tokyo still hand-make their noodles daily, offering a simple yet refined taste of tradition.
Hamacho Kaneko – Bib Gourmand
Hamacho Kaneko is a traditional soba (buckwheat noodle) restaurant run by a chef who trained for 10 years at Michelin-starred establishments. The specialty here is juwari soba, noodles made entirely from buckwheat flour, giving them a nutty flavor and firm texture. The buckwheat is freshly stone-ground from high-quality grains sourced in Fukushima and Ibaraki.
The restaurant also serves seasonal tempura, such as summer ayu (sweetfish), sea urchin, shrimp, and conger eel, all freshly fried to order. Another highlight is soba-yu—the warm, starchy water left after boiling soba—which is traditionally mixed with dipping sauce and enjoyed as a comforting drink.
With its calm counter seating and small portion sizes, the restaurant is perfect for a relaxed lunch, especially for those who want to try several different dishes. It can get lively during peak hours, but the quality and atmosphere make it a place worth returning to.
Opening Hours
Monday: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM (last order)
(No lunch on Mondays)
Tuesday – Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM (last order), 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM (last order)
Saturday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM (last order)
(Lunch only on Saturdays)
Closed: Sundays & National Holidays
Access
About 4 minutes on foot from Suitengumae Station (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line)
About 7 minutes on foot from Ningyocho Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
About 6 minutes on foot from Hamacho Station (Toei Shinjuku Line)
Map
Budget
Lunch: ¥1,000 – ¥2,000
Dinner: ¥4,000 – ¥5,000
Check out the restaurant details here.
8. Unagi (Grilled Eel)
Unagi is freshwater eel, traditionally grilled with a sweet soy-based sauce and served over rice. Rich and flavorful, it’s often enjoyed in the summer as a dish that gives strength and stamina. Unagi restaurants in Tokyo carefully prepare each eel, creating a dish that is both deeply satisfying and uniquely Japanese.
Nodaiwa Azabu Iikura Honten – 1 Michelin Star
Founded in 1850, Nodaiwa Azabu Iikura Honten is a historic unagi (grilled eel) restaurant near Tokyo Tower, run by the same family for five generations. The restaurant is famous for its charcoal-grilled Edo-style unagi, brushed with a special tare sauce, served as unaju (eel over rice), shirayaki, or seasonal specialties.
Set in a traditional wooden townhouse with tatami rooms, it offers a serene and authentic Japanese dining experience. Reservations are recommended, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy premium unagi in Tokyo.
Opening Hours
Lunch: 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM
(Last order: 1:30 PM on weekdays / 2:00 PM on Saturdays and national holidays)
Dinner: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
(Last order: 8:00 PM)
Closed: Every Sunday
Please note: Service may end earlier if items sell out.
Access
About 5 minutes on foot from Akabanebashi Station (Toei Oedo Line)
About 8 minutes on foot from Kamiyacho Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
About 15 minutes on foot from Roppongi Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
Map
Budget
¥10,000 – ¥15,000
Check out the restaurant details here.
9. Shojin Ryori
Shojin Ryori is a traditional style of Japanese Buddhist cuisine that is completely plant-based. Originally developed by monks, it emphasizes simplicity, balance, and respect for nature. Instead of relying on meat or fish, dishes are crafted from seasonal vegetables, tofu, seaweed, and grains, highlighting the natural flavors of each ingredient. The cooking methods avoid strong spices, focusing instead on subtle tastes that encourage mindfulness and appreciation of food. Enjoying Shojin Ryori is not just about eating—it is a cultural experience that offers a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual traditions and the art of eating with intention.
Daigo – 1 Michelin Star
Shojin Ryori Daigo, located in Tokyo’s Azabu-Juban district, is a renowned restaurant specializing in shojin ryori, the traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine. Using carefully selected seasonal ingredients, each dish is crafted with mindfulness and attention to detail, offering a beautiful presentation that delights all the senses.
Shojin ryori avoids meat and fish, focusing solely on plant-based ingredients, making it ideal for vegetarians and anyone seeking a healthy, thoughtful dining experience. At Daigo, traditional techniques are preserved while incorporating modern touches, creating seasonal tasting courses that highlight the unique flavors of each ingredient.
Set in a calm and elegant environment, Daigo allows guests to enjoy a serene meal while experiencing the spiritual and cultural essence of Japan. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in authentic Japanese vegetarian cuisine and mindful dining.
Opening Hours
Lunch: from 11:30 AM (last entry 1:00 PM)
Dinner: from 5:00 PM (last entry 8:00 PM)
Closed: Only during New Year holidays
Reservation only
Access
About 5 minutes on foot from Kamiyacho Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line), Exit 3
About 3 minutes on foot from Onarimon Station (Toei Mita Line), Exit A5
Map
Budget
Lunch: ¥15,000 – ¥19,999
Dinner: ¥20,000 – ¥29,999
10. Japanese Fruit Desserts
Japanese fruit desserts highlight the country’s world-famous fruits, celebrated for their exceptional sweetness, beauty, and quality. Rather than being everyday snacks, these fruits are often transformed into elegant desserts that feel like a true indulgence. From parfaits layered with fragrant strawberries, to fluffy cakes topped with perfectly sliced melons, to delicate wagashi featuring seasonal fruits, each creation reflects Japan’s artistry and attention to detail. Enjoying these desserts not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also offers a refreshing glimpse into Japan’s culture of turning simple ingredients into luxurious culinary experiences.
Yama – 1 Michelin Star
Yama is Tokyo's first Michelin-starred dessert restaurant, nestled in the quiet Shirokane district. Led by Chef Koichi Katsumata, Yama offers a refined eight-course dessert omakase that showcases Japan’s finest seasonal fruits. Each dish is a harmonious blend of natural sweetness and artistry, often incorporating herbs and vegetables to enhance flavors. The intimate six-seat counter and elegant Baccarat glassware create a serene dining experience.
Opening Hours
Wednesday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
First seating: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Second seating: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
(Seating times may vary depending on the course.)
Closed: Monday & Tuesday Reservation only
Access
About 16 minutes on foot from Ebisu Station (JR)
About 13 minutes on foot from Hiroo Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
About 14 minutes on foot from Shirokane Station (Tokyo Metro Namboku Line)
Map
Budget
¥30,000 – ¥40,000
Conclusion
Tokyo is truly a food lover’s paradise, where every meal can be a memorable experience. From sushi and ramen to tempura and wagyu, the city offers an endless variety of dishes that represent both tradition and innovation. By visiting Michelin-starred restaurants and Bib Gourmand spots, you can enjoy the best Japanese food in Tokyo with confidence, knowing that every dish is crafted to the highest standard.
Whether you’re here for a short trip or an extended stay, make sure to include these must-try Tokyo dishes on your itinerary. Exploring the city through its food is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Japan. If you are searching for the best Michelin restaurants in Tokyo or wondering what Japanese dishes you simply cannot miss, let this guide be your starting point to discover unforgettable flavors.
For Those Interested in Exploring Other Japanese Cuisine: "Patia’s Japanese Cooking Classes"
If reading about these must-try Japanese dishes has inspired you to experience them beyond the restaurant table, why not try cooking them yourself? At Patia’s Japanese Cooking Classes in Tokyo, we offer hands-on experiences such as our popular Gyoza Making Class, a Jiro-style Ramen class where you can master authentic ramen techniques, and sushi-making sessions that let you discover the artistry behind this iconic dish. Each class is designed to give you not only delicious results but also a deeper cultural connection to Japanese cuisine.
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