Tokyo for Foodies: The Ultimate Guide

Thanks to its rich culture and diverse culinary scene, Tokyo is one of the best cities in Asia for those looking for an exciting trip for the tastebuds! Boasting a great combination of contemporary and traditional dining establishments, great hotels, and unique activities, there's plenty to experience no matter what kind of Tokyo trip you're hoping to experience.

No matter how you hope to spend your getaway in one of Japan's most unique cities, here are some of Tokyo's best hotels, restaurants, and activities for you to enjoy.

Best Hotels in Tokyo for Foodies

Tokyo offers a truly fabulous selection of hotels, many of which feature indulgent on-site restaurants that feature both local and international cuisines, making them a perfect stay for foodies visiting the city. Whether you're looking for a simple, luxurious modern boutique hotel that boasts its marvelous international dining options, or a luxurious yet traditional Ryokan experience with bento box breakfasts, you'll find the perfect place to stay in the heart of Tokyo city!

Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo

Located just around the corner from the world-famous Imperial Palace, there are plenty of unique cultural and historical landmarks right on the doorstep of this fabulous, towering 5-star hotel, including Taira no Masakado's Grave, The National Museum of the Imperial Collections, and the Edo Castle Ruins.

Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi boasts a great array of facilities, including concierge services, a 24-hour front desk, currency exchange services, free Wi-Fi, bicycles for guests to use, an indoor pool, a fitness center, a sauna, a hot tub, and an on-site spa boasting five different treatment rooms.

A great spot for lovers of international cuisines, guests can indulge in a buffet, à la carte, or continental breakfast each morning, and indulge in dinner at one of their on-site restaurants. For all-day Italian dining, head to Pigneto. For a Michelin-star French fine-dining experience, head to Est; created by professional duo, chef de cuisine Guillaume Bracaval and pastry chef Michele Abbatemarco where you can indulge in light, innovative dishes, all produced with exceptional local ingredients. There is also a selection of snacks and small plates available at both the Lobby Lounge and Bar Virtù, which serves up seasonal cocktails in a relaxed and refined setting.

The hotel towers above the city, boasting 70 gorgeous rooms, and 20 suites (all of which are non-smoking). Rooms are each fitted with air conditioning, and feature a seating area, a flat-screen satellite TV, a coffee machine, and an iPad.
  

Takanawa Hanakohro Grand Prince Hotel, Minato City, Tokyo

Located in the Grand Prince Hotel, Takanawa Hanakohro is a completely unique stay, in that it takes a handful of low-floor rooms (just 16 of them) in an aging hotel, and reimagines them as a traditional Japanese inn that one may stumble across in a rural village, rather than in the middle of a bustling city.

Situated just a short distance from some of the city's greatest attractions, such as Ebisu Garden Place and Tokyo Tower, this stunning hotel is a unique attraction in its own right. With paper walls, tatami floors, and gorgeous oversized bathing suites, this unique abode boasts truly hospitable Japanese culture through and through. 

Aside from the free shuttle service (a great perk for first-time visitors to Japan), guests can also enjoy access to the executive lounges across the wider hotel campus, with one in each of the three towers that make up the property. Guests can discover coffee bars, a snack carousel, and plenty of private seating. There is even an excellent restaurant, where guests can indulge in a complimentary over-size Japanese breakfast, or sample complimentary Japanese spirits (namely sake and umeshu) on an evening.

Each of the rooms at this unique ryokan comes fitted with modern amenities, including air-conditioning and flat-screen TVs. Some of the rooms even have a comfortable sitting area, for guests who enjoy spending their downtime relaxing in their room.

Trunk Hotel, Yoyogi Park, Shibuya, Tokyo

Trunk Hotel is not only truly worth the stay thanks to its modern, minimal, and trendy Japandi style, but also thanks to its central location. It's surrounded by many unique attractions and points of interest, including the Toguri Museum of Art, Nabeshima Shoto Park, Yoyogi Park, and Yoyogi Hachimangu Shrine.

This hotel's stunning Japandi style can be seen throughout the interior, with minimalist pale decor, smooth curves, natural textures, and bespoke furniture throughout. Guests can enjoy the use of free bikes, free Wi-Fi, room service, a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, a hot tub, and a gorgeous outdoor infinity pool.

Trunk Hotel is also the place to be for food lovers, thanks to its offerings of à la carte, continental, or American breakfast. If you're on the hunt for some truly great food later in the day, be sure to visit the bustling ground-floor Pizzeria e Trattoria L’Ombelico, where you can indulge in some mouth-watering, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas. Looking for something a little more exclusive? Head up to the sixth-floor, guests-only Trunk Pool Club to indulge in crafted cocktails, and oysters on ice.

Each of this hotel's exclusive 25 rooms boasts a comfortable seating area, air-conditioning, a refrigerated minibar, an electric teapot, and a closet. You may also be able to choose between a room with a terrace or a city view if there is availability - but be quick, this one books up fast!

Hoshinoya Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Tokyo

Standing a convenient 800 meters from Tokyo Station, and only 300 meters from Otemchi Station, this 17-story tower may look both stunning and modern, but the interior boasts a wonderfully luxurious take on a traditional Ryokan. Though it is located in the business district, there are many wonderful attractions right on the doorstep, including Taira no Masakado's Grave, The National Museum of the Imperial Collections, and the Edo Castle Ruins.

Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the property, a 24-hour front desk, and a truly stylish yet cultural experience. Despite traditional Ryokans not being quite as commonplace these days, this hotel does everything it can to capture their essence. With tatami mats throughout the property (you'll need to remove your shoes upon entry), and a stunning rooftop onsen with warm spring water pumped up from almost 5,000 feet below, a stay here is a truly luxurious way of indulging in Japan's rich culture and history.

Each floor boasts six guest rooms grouped around a communal lounge area, where guests can enjoy tea and seasonal snacks served throughout the day, as well as breakfast (freshly prepared onigiri rice balls). The in-room option, delivered in a beautiful wooden bento box is arguably the better choice some mornings though, and is very much worth the extra fee!

All of the rooms boast traditional aesthetics, luxurious comfort, and modern amenities, including a flat-screen TV and a kettle. 

Palace Hotel Tokyo, Marunouchi, Tokyo

One of Tokyo's most famous hotels, sitting in the heart of the city since 1961 is the stunning Palace Hotel. A top choice for VIPs, politicians, and celebrities thanks to its outstanding location, the design has since been upgraded to reflect its notoriety after undergoing complete reconstruction in 2012.

Boasting flawless white-glove service, and great on-site amenities, guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, pre-book airport transfers, make use of the on-site parking facilities, and enjoy a great range of facilities. Whether you're hoping to relax at the executive lounge, get in a session at the fitness center, or unwind by the pool, there's plenty to do 

Indulge in freshly made breakfast each morning of your stay, and if you're on the hunt for something truly mouth-watering to indulge in later on in the day, be sure to visit Wadakura. Located on the 6th floor of the hotel, this village-like collection of Japanese dining spots boasts a truly delectable selection of some of Japan's most famous offerings, including tempura, sushi, teppanyaki, and kaiseki-style dining. 

Each of the guest rooms boasts an inviting, spacious, and relaxing design, and all are equipped with convenient modern amenities. Many of the rooms open onto large balconies, which overlook the Imperial Palace and its large, sprawling gardens.

Best Restaurants in Tokyo for Foodies

Tokyo's dining scene is truly as culturally rich and exciting as the city its self! With both traditional and contemporary dishes and a wide selection of fresh options on offer, you can indulge in a great selection of refined dishes across a range of both upmarket establishments, and small eateries that have stood the test of time.

Whether you're looking for a classy experience of indulging in some of the city's best Sushi, or are simply hoping to enjoy a hearty meal in a traditional, laid-back setting, there's the perfect spot for everyone here!

Tenko, Kagurazaka, Shinjuku, Tokyo

Thanks to its incredibly traditional vibe, this outstanding tempura spot is another great choice for both vegetarians and seafood lovers alike!

Boasting fresh, locally sourced vegetables, and a selection of seafood sourced from the Tokyo Bay area, second-generation chef Hitoshi Arai masterfully creates delicate and lacy tempura that truly captures the flavors of the fresh ingredients. At this restaurant, the tempura is served only with salt. There's no dipping sauce on offer here in order to preserve the gentle flavors and crispy fresh batter.

Sougo, Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo

While Vegetarian food isn't typically at the top of the list of places to dine if you're a foodie, Sougo, a truly outstanding restaurant created by Chef Daisuke Nomura should be the biggest exception.

Serving up modern Shojin Ryori (vegetarian Buddhist cuisine) this restaurant is unique in that instead of catering to traditional Japanese Buddhists, it reaches out to a new audience of young, international visitors thanks to its great location in one of the city's most trendy neighborhoods.

Be sure to sample Sougo's signature dish of sesame tofu, which can be fried or grilled to enhance its silky texture. The menu also boasts dishes curated with a huge variety of vegetables from both land and sea, alongside traditional Shojin ingredients like fu (wheat gluten) and yuba (soy milk skin).

This outstanding restaurant is also home to Tokyo Cook, a cooking school that teaches visitors more about Japanese food!

Kagari Ramen, Ginza, Tokyo

If you're looking for some of Tokyo's heartiest ramen, look no further than Kagari Ramen. Serving up delicious Tori Paitan (creamy chicken broth) alongside thin, straight noodles cooked to perfection, it's one of the most authentic spots in the neighborhood.

Each dish is served with seasonal and colorful vegetables such as watermelon radish, snap peas, and kabocha squash, making it a truly unique ramen experience, that you can visit time and time again thanks to the toppings rotating throughout the year.

Even though the umami-rich ramen broth here tastes delicious, Kagari Ramen is aware that everyone's palate is different, and offers side dishes of grated ginger and fried garlic, alongside vinegar for guests to adjust the flavor to their liking

L'ambre, Shinjuku, Tokyo

Just minutes from the famous Shinjuku Station, L’ambre is the place to be if you're looking for a truly traditional experience. Open since 1950, L'ambre allows guests to step back in time to an old-school kissaten (or traditional tea room). 

The cafe truly has an old-fashioned yet elegant feel thanks to its high ceiling, red velvet seats, and classical music playing in the background. Patrons can indulge in some tastey treats, including coffee, pizza toast, tuna and egg sandos, and of course, a selection of delicious cakes. There are even some unique retro items on the menu that are a struggle to find elsewhere, including coffee jelly topped with ice cream and whipped cream, as well as a bright-green melon soda float!

Sushi Yuu, Minato City, Tokyo

You didn't think we'd discuss the best restaurants in Tokyo without mentioning Sushi, did you? Well, if you're on the hunt for some of the best-crafted fresh seafood in the city, this could perhaps be the restaurant for you!

At Sushi Yuu, second-generation chef Daisuke Shimazaki serves up traditional Edomae sushi, and while many high-end sushi-ya can feel uncomfortably formal, chef Shimazaki strives to create a comfortable and relaxed environment thanks to his outstanding combination of both culinary and foreign language skills!

The meals here begin with small seasonal bites, such as grilled Pacific mackerel and simmered yellowtail, before guests are allowed to indulge in some of Chef Shimazaki's most famous creations of nigiri sushi. One of the most famous ones you'll get to sample is the Tuna, so be sure to pay attention to what is being served and when!

Best Things to do in Tokyo for Foodies

Tokyo is a city that is extremely rich in culture, history and cuisine, and thanks to it's many unique things to do, there's plenty of attractions to enjoy if you're a foodie!

Visitors can enjoy everything from unique museums and boat rides cathedrals, to cooking classes and huge flagship stores!

Cruise Tokyo Bay on a Yakatabune, Chuo City, Tokyo

A traditional Yakatabune is similar to what we know as a barge. These authentic boats can be seen sailing across the water, and make for one of the best ways to view the city during the summer months.

Step aboard near Kachidoki Station., and get ready for a two-and-a-half-hour cruise, where you can travel beneath the Rainbow Bridge, past Odaiba and up the Sumida River. The reason this makes an excellent activity for food lovers is of course, because of the outstanding kaiseki dinner served on board.

Indulge in authentic tempura and sashimi over a beer or sake, before making your way up onto the deck to take in the nighttime view of Tokyo's cityscape.

Visit Muji Ginza, Ginza, Tokyo

Japanese lifestyle brand Muji is famous across the world for it's clean, functional design, and high-quality products crafted from recycled materials. Since it's creation way back in the 1980's, Muji has gone on to develop huge ranges of products and open stores all over the globe.

Muji Ginza, located in Tokyo is the brands global flagship store, and their first ever hotel! Offering visitors the complete Muji experience and then some, this huge attraction boasts two restaurants, a bakery, a bar, two galleries, and a huge retail space that stretches over five floors!

The retail area is stocked with all the Muji goodies you can imagine, from stationary to home accessories, they've got you covered! One of the great things that makes this a great attraction for foodies (other than the on-site restaurants of course) is the fresh food section, where you can get your hands on some delicious bento boxes, visit a custom tea-blending station and a juice bar!

D47 Museum, Shibuya, Tokyo

D47 Museum is a museum located in Shibuya that is entirely dedicated to the 47 different prefectures of Japan. Each of the exhibitions showcases a certain theme, capturing the unique culture, food, design, or history of a particular prefecture.

Exhibitions at this museum have previously revolved around themes such as off-the-grid living, product and packaging design, and fermentation culture. But the star of the show for foodies looking to visit is at the adjoining restaurant, D47 Shokudo, which serves up regional specialities for you to sample.

The on-site gift shop also boasts a great range of unique artisanal products to take home with you!

The Dawn Avatar Robot Café , Chuo City, Tokyo

The Dawn Avatar Robot Café has gone quite viral a few times, making it a well-known destination for tourists looking for one of Tokyo's most unique and inclusive experiences. At this restaurant, robot waiters are controlled remotely by individuals who are unable to leave their homes due to medical or social reasons. This unique employment opportunity seeks to help integrate people with disabilities or societal constraints back into society, allowing them an opportunity to enjoy fulfilling work and social interactions on a daily basis.

Aside from its inclusive workforce, this cafe is also extremely accessible for customers who are wheelchair users, and the restaurant has a variety of different seating types to help cater to those with other disabilities or social difficulties (for example, sensory issues).

We chose not to include this on our list of recommended restaurants, as the food here is delicious, but not something unique or interesting. Instead, the real draw to this place is its exceptional inclusivity standards and outstanding staff members.

Chagohan Tokyo, Asakusa, Tokyo

If you're a true foodie, then the activity that should be at the top of your list is taking a Japanese cooking class! This way, you can bring all the delicious flavors of Japanese dining back home with you!

The Chagohan Tokyo cooking school, located in Asakusa, offers a huge range of Japanese cooking classes in a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. Taught by culinary professionals in English, guests can learn how to make a variety of traditional Japanese foods, including Rame, okonomiyaki, and more (there are even vegetarian options, so it's still a great option, even if you don't eat meat!)

After cooking up a storm through a series of courses, why not add an optional activity afterward when booking? Dress up in a traditional kimono, or take a ride on a rickshaw - The choice is yours!