The uniqueness and passion for food in Japan becomes quite evident from the fact that most restaurants have spent generations to create their one special dish and each of the food joints is known by the specific speciality dish. Other than Sushi the hotpots are famed but are seasonal. So, you see by no means can Japanese cuisine bore you as it can tingle your taste buds differently in different seasons and even different eating joints! In this article we will explore Tokyo’s places to eat, there are many and actually, the selection was difficult. But well, here it is and we hope you enjoy and get inspired! And we also have a restaurant which is actually not a restaurant or for that matter serves anything worth a mention!
Yakitori Alley Ginza… Follow the Aroma of Grill Smoke
Just step out of the Yurakucho Station’s Central Exit and make your way to the bustling food scene here. The Yakitori Alley is huge when one thinks of the well-famed eateries in Japan. This alley is identified as the hub of bar-style diners & restaurants that wait for you to indulge into casual yet extravagant gastronomical affair. Start off with the appetizer of grilled chicken skewers (yakitori) that will leave you hungry for more. The old and rustic ambiance of the open air food joints are now accompanied by enclosed restaurants as well. It earlier used to be only known to local businessmen but is gradually drawing the eyes of tourists too. The Ginza, on the other hand, will tickle your sweet tooth with the varied confectionary shops.
Monja Street… the land of Monjayaki
Reminding of the famous Okonomiyaki pancake, the Monjayaki is also a similar delicacy prepared in pan-fried style. The best place to find restaurants that serve Monjayaki is to visit Monjya Street. This street is the favorite food hub of Tsukishima which is a man-made island. Over 70 monjayaki restaurants here serve uniquely flavored forms of this dish. Tsukishima never fails to entertain you with its blend of modern and ancient as well as the scenic beauty. Apart from this crispy pancake many restaurants also serve dishes like Yakisoba. It’s basically one island, packing the punch of many!
Robot Restaurant
Remember we told you about this one place which is not really about food! Well it is the Robot restaurant well known for the daily shows that it hosts. Located at the heart of Japan’s red light district, Shinjuku’s Kabukicho, this is a one of a kind Sci-Fi Japanese Cabaret. This one time experience is a highly recommended one. Forget about all your worries amidst the loud 90 minute shows of techno music, flashing neon lights, taiko drum beats etc. The multiple mirrors in the interior make the lights reflect beautifully creating a visual treat. The cabaret is performed by dazzling costume-clad dancers alongside the giant robots. You can either book or buy tickets for specific show slots or get a clubbed ticket that comes with a dinner package. When you see the neo-tanks that initiate a battle between ninja’s and samurai’s, you will know what surreal means.