Tokyo Food Trail 2025

Tokyo Food Trail 2025

These were the places we visited and ate at, as regular paying customers, on the Tokyo Food Trail 2025 in Tokyo, Kanto, Japan.

Day 1
Unagi Kappo Oedo
Nihonbashi Asada

Day 2
Yoroiya
Oimoyasan Koshin
Umezono
Gindaco

Day 3
Toka-Atre Ueno
Sho-An
Oyakodon Senmonten Marukatsu
Oden Ore-No Dashi

Day 4
Nadai Fuji Soba
Toraya Café
Nihonbashi Nigiyaka Nigiri
Konbini / Convenience Stores - Seven-Eleven Japan Company Limited, FamilyMart Company Limited, Lawson Incorporated

Day 5
Ichiran Incorporated
Udon Maruka
Tentora
Sushiro (Akindo Sushiro Company Limited)

Day 6
Tomiya
Torikizoku
Sukiya
MOS Burger

Day 7
CoCo Ichibanya
Gekibutori
Daichi-No Megumi
Niimura

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Day 1
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Unagi Kappo Oedo
@ 4 Chome-7-10 Nihonbashihoncho, Chuo, Tokyo, Kanto 103-0023, Japan
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 11am – 10pm, Sat 11am – 9pm, Closed Sun
https://r.gnavi.co.jp/g144600/menu1/

Nestled in a quiet corner of Nihonbashihoncho, Chuo, Tokyo, Kanto, Japan, Unagi Kappo Oedo is a traditional kappo-style restaurant originally founded in 1800 by Kichibei Sokaya, opening in its present location in 1946. A well-known dining landmark, Unagi Kappo Oedo continues to uphold their founder's philosophy that “customers are friends, and the restaurant is a small community”. They're also known for their secret sauce marinade, a perpetual stew where eel is immersed in a continuously enhanced sauce. Click here for the full post.

Teishoku / Set Meal (JPY ¥5,280)

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Nihonbashi Asada
@ 3 Chome-4-4 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo, Tokyo, Kanto 103-0022, Japan
Opening Hours: Daily 6:30am – 10am (Breakfast), 11:30am – 2:30pm (Lunch)
https://www.gardenhotels.co.jp/nihonbashi-premier/eng/

The Nihonbashi Asada is the in-house restaurant of Mitsui Garden Hotel Nihonbashi Premier. Specializing in traditional Kaga cuisine from the Kanazawa region of Japan, dishes are presented kaiseki / multi-course meal style, set within a serene atmosphere with a mix of counter seating and private rooms. However, besides the high price point, the dishes are largely the same across the week, making this place good for dining just once or twice. Click here for the full post.

Shokuji / Meal (JPY ¥4,400 Per Person Breakfast Buffet)

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Day 2
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Yoroiya
@ 1 Chome-36-7 Asakusa, Taito, Tokyo, Kanto 111-0032, Japan
Opening Hours: Daily 11am – 8:30pm
https://www.takumen.com/products/1387

A bastion of traditional shoyu / soy sauce ramen, Yoroiya first opened its doors in 1992 in Asakusa, Taito, Tokyo, Kanto, Japan. It's evident they have a lot of pride in their ramen, with ingredients carefully selected and flavours in balance. No surprise they tend to draw queues during peak meal periods, going early is recommended.

Ambience at Yoroiya is homely but cramped, warm lights illuminating a long counter lined with wooden seats parallel to the open kitchen. Diners stare straight into the high counter in front, politely ignoring the elbow-to-elbow diners on adjacent sides. Service at Yoroiya is quick and efficient, from fulfilling orders to cleaning up. Helpfully, there are menus in English and Japanese, and the focused options make deciding easy. Food at Yoroiya is traditional Japanese cuisine, specialising in shoyu / soy sauce ramen noodles. Taste is artfully balanced, and ingredients are sourced fresh daily. Portions are sized for individuals. Prices are affordable, budget about JPY ¥1,600 per person.

Yoroiya Signage

Yoroiya Exterior

Yoroiya Interior

Entrance

Table Setting

Yoroiya Menu

Freshly made-to-order, the Gyoza / Potsticker Dumplings (JPY ¥450) here are a treat, slightly crisp on the outside, bursting with juicy meaty flavour on the inside. Served with shoyu / soy sauce and a lemon pepper salt. Good!

Gyoza / Potsticker Dumplings (JPY ¥450)

Gyoza / Potsticker Dumplings

Gyoza / Potsticker Dumplings

The Tamago Shoyu Ramen / Soy Sauce Ramen With Egg (JYP ¥1,150) is a classic Tokyo style ramen. The clear golden brown soup is a result of stewing chicken bones, pork bones, koikuchi shoyu / dark soy sauce, usukuchi shoyu / light soy sauce, salt, mirin rice wine, dried anchovies and mackerel fish (instead of dried sardine or bonito fish), seaweed, white onions, garlic, ginger, and water. The springy wheat noodles are produced by Asakusa Kaikarou, medium-thin and curly, picking up the soup well. Topped with thick chashu / pork belly slices, menma / seasoned bamboo shoots, nori / dried seaweed, green onions, unique twin-yolk chicken eggs, and yuzu peel for a refreshing contrast of taste. Nicely balanced and incredibly satisfying. Highly recommended!

Tamago Shoyu Ramen / Soy Sauce Ramen With Egg (JYP ¥1,150)

Tamago Shoyu Ramen / Soy Sauce Ramen With Egg

Tamago Shoyu Ramen / Soy Sauce Ramen With Egg

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Oimoyasan Koshin
@ 1 Chome-36-6 Asakusa, Taito, Tokyo, Kanto 111-0032, Japan
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9am – 8pm, Sat - Sun 8am – 8pm
https://www.oimoyasan.com/

Originally established as a sweet potato wholesaler branded Kawako Shoten, by Koheiji Saito in 1876, the business expanded into producing and retailing desserts in 1985 in Komagata, Taito, Tokyo, Kanto, Japan, whereupon it rebranded to Oimoyasan Koshin. Beloved for its traditional sweet potato desserts, along with some modern favourites, the brand name Oimoyasan Koshin translates to "Prosperity / Advancement of the Sweet Potato Shop".

Ambience at Oimoyasan Koshin is open and enticing, the pure takeaway shopfront having a clear display of the desserts. There's usually a fast-moving but long queue, with groups of people standing nearby to eat (it's impolite to walk and eat). Service at Oimoyasan Koshin is fast and efficient, with staff packing and fulfilling orders quickly. Items are rather straightforward, not needing lengthy explanations, and the clear signages in English and Japanese help. Food at Oimoyasan Koshin is traditional Japanese cuisine, focused on desserts made from sweet potatoes or yam / taro. Portions are sized for sharing. Prices are affordable, budget about JPY ¥500 per person.

Oimoyasan Koshin Facade

Oimoyasan Koshin Display

The Daigaku Imo / Candied Sweet Potato (JPY ¥740 for 200g) here are made according to tradition, it's tasty and filling, and perfect for a cold day! Highly recommended!

Daigaku Imo / Candied Sweet Potato (JPY ¥740 for 200g)

Daigaku Imo / Candied Sweet Potato

Daigaku Imo / Candied Sweet Potato

Daigaku Imo / Candied Sweet Potato

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Umezono
@ 1 Chome-31-12 Asakusa, Taito, Tokyo, Kanto 111-0032, Japan
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 10am – 5pm, Sat - Sun 10am – 6pm
https://www.asakusa-umezono.co.jp/

With a name that translates to 'Plum Garden', Umezono is a traditional Japanese dessert shop, established in 1854 in Asakusa, Taito, Tokyo, Kanto, Japan. Till today, Umezono is beloved for their range of traditional sweets and desserts.

Ambience at Umezono is bright and functional, with cushioned wooden furnishings neatly arranged within the small dining area. Service at Umezono is polite and efficient, there are menus in English and Japanese making it easy to order. Not much opportunity to showcase product knowledge. Cleaning up is done quickly. Food at Umezono is traditional Japanese cuisine, focused on desserts, made using age-old techniques and recipes. Portions are sized for individuals. Prices are affordable, budget about JPY ¥860 per person.

Umezono Exterior

Umezono Interior

Decor

Seating

Display

Takeaway Counter

The warm Ryokucha / Green Tea (JPY ¥Complimentary) helps refresh the palate between mouthfuls of the rich desserts. Good!

Ryokucha / Green Tea (JPY ¥Complimentary)

Ryokucha / Green Tea

Love the Oshiruko / Red Bean Soup (JPY ¥858) here, with its contrast of toasted mochi / rice cake, and chunky smooth azuki red bean soup. Good balance in taste, not overly cloying, but keeps you reaching for more. Highly recommended!

Oshiruko / Red Bean Soup (JPY ¥858)

Oshiruko / Red Bean Soup

Oshiruko / Red Bean Soup

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Gindaco
@ Tokyo Solamachi 3F W0310, 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida, Tokyo, Kanto 131-0045, Japan
Opening Hours: Daily 10am – 9pm
https://stores.gindaco.com/1010673

Famed for its crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside octopus balls, Gindaco was founded by Morio Sase in 1989 in Maebashi, Gunma, Kanto, Japan. Also known as Tsukiji Gindaco, this casual eatery chain is beloved for its performance-style cooking, where customers can watch the Takoyaki / Grilled Octopus Balls being prepared in an open kitchen.

Ambience at Gindaco is shared with the food hall, casual functional with warm lights and sturdy wooden and metal furnishings. Relatively comfortable, but most people eat quickly and go. Service at Gindaco is efficient, though ordering, payment, and collection is over the counter. You're also expected to clear your table when done. Not much opportunity for staff to demonstrate product knowledge, the menu in English and Japanese is straightforward. Food at Gindaco is traditional Japanese cuisine, focused on light bites and small meals. Prepared fresh throughout the day, dishes are served piping hot. Portions are sized for sharing, but is medium sized for individuals. Prices are affordable, budget about JPY ¥1,200 per person.

Gindaco Signage

Gindaco Facade

Gindaco Menu

The Suntory Pop Melon Soda (JPY ¥275) is a vibrant green carbonated beverage that is a nostalgic soft drink. Produced by Suntory, with a blend of high-fructose corn syrup, carbonated water, artificial melon flavourings, and colouring agents, it has a strong artificial melon flavour which is candied fruity sweet in flavour, with a fizzy lively texture.

Suntory Pop Melon Soda (JPY ¥275)

Suntory Pop Melon Soda

The gourmet Teritama Takoyaki / Grilled Octopus Balls With Egg Salad (JPY ¥902) is an indulgent treat. Always consistently well-executed, utterly delicious and satisfying. Highly recommended!

Teritama Takoyaki / Grilled Octopus Balls With Egg Salad (JPY ¥902)

Teritama Takoyaki / Grilled Octopus Balls With Egg Salad

Teritama Takoyaki / Grilled Octopus Balls With Egg Salad

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Day 3
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Toka-Atre Ueno
@ Atre Ueno West 1F, 7 Chome-1-1 Ueno, Taito, Tokyo, Kanto 110-0005, Japan
Opening Hours: Daily 10am – 1am
https://linktr.ee/ramen_toka

Opened at some point before November 2021, Toka-Atre Ueno is a humble ramen stall in Ueno, Taito, Tokyo, Kanto, Japan, known for its signature soup stock made from fresh sea bream fish. We visited Toka-Atre Ueno on a recommendation, and discovered one of the best ramen dining experiences we ever had.

Ambience at Toka-Atre Ueno is modern casual, brightly lit with comfortable cushioned counter and dining seats. Atmosphere is welcoming and decor is vibrant. Service at Toka-Atre Ueno is helpful and proactive. The self-ordering kiosk has English and Japanese languages, making it a breeze, but when the machine was unable to accept old notes, staff proactively and quickly assisted. Food at Toka-Atre Ueno is traditional Japanese cuisine, specialising in shio / salt ramen noodles. Quickly and expertly made-to-order, each bite was delicious. Portions are large for individuals, we struggled to finish even the smallest bowl (small being relative here). Prices are affordable, budget about JPY ¥1,870 per person.

Toka-Atre Ueno Exterior

Toka-Atre Ueno Interior

Decor Curtain

Seating

Toka-Atre Ueno Menu

The Mizu / Water (JPY ¥Complimentary) is self-service, chilled and refreshing. Good!

Mizu / Water (JPY ¥Complimentary)

The Beer Asahi Super Dry (JPY ¥550) is a Japanese pale lager, brewed by Asahi Breweries in Tokyo, within the Kanto region of Japan. This bright, clear golden yellow brew has a tame aroma of hops, grass, corn, and apples, with a smooth, refreshing, medium body and medium carbonation. Taste is floral bitter sweet, with notes of wheat, rice, malted barley, and lemon citrus, with a super dry, crisp finish. Very drinkable.

Beer Asahi Super Dry (JPY ¥550)

Beer Asahi Super Dry

The Tokusei Tai Dashi Shio Ramen / Special Sea Bream Stock Salt Ramen (JPY ¥1,318) is a delicate-looking bowl that is bursting with flavour. A classic Hakodate style ramen, lightly seasoned with sea salt, the clear transparent soup carries the distinct sweetness from a slow stewing of water, red sea bream fish, seaweed, and mirin rice wine, resulting in a sweet salty flavour that is so addictive. The springy thin straight noodles with grainy sweet flavour pick up the soup delicately. Topped with thick chashu / pork belly slices, menma / seasoned bamboo shoots, green onions, seasoned chicken egg, a flower-shaped piece of wheat gluten, and yuzu peel for a refreshing contrast of taste. Addictive and fulfilling. Highly recommended!

Tokusei Tai Dashi Shio Ramen / Special Sea Bream Stock Salt Ramen (JPY ¥1,318)

Tokusei Tai Dashi Shio Ramen / Special Sea Bream Stock Salt Ramen

Tokusei Tai Dashi Shio Ramen / Special Sea Bream Stock Salt Ramen

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Sho-An
@ 7 Chome-2-12 Ginza, Chuo, Tokyo, Kanto 104-0061, Japan
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 11:30am – 2:30pm, 5:30pm - 2am, Closed Sat & Sun
https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1301/A130101/13133616/

A hidden gem established some time before July 2014, Sho-An, also known as Osoba Shoan, is a small casual restaurant celebrated for its hand-crafted soba / buckwheat noodles made using traditional time-honoured techniques. Sho-An is beloved by locals, so expect to queue for the limited seats here. Click here for the full post.

Tenzaru Soba / Tempura Moriawase Zaru Soba / Tempura Assortment Chilled Buckwheat Noodles (JPY ¥2,300)

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Oyakodon Senmonten Marukatsu
@ Ginza A Building 2F, 4 Chome-4-1 Ginza, Chuo, Tokyo, Kanto 104-0061, Japan
Opening Hours: Daily 11:30am – 2:30pm (Lunch),
Sat - Thu 5pm – 8:30pm (Dinner), Closed Fri Dinner
https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1301/A130101/13208351/

Opened in May 2017, Oyakodon Senmonten Marukatsu is a hole-in-the-wall shop specialising in Oyakodon / Oyako Donburi / Parent And Child Rice Bowl. Regarded as a hidden gem, located as they are on the 2nd floor of a small alley shophouse, Oyakodon Senmonten Marukatsu is renowned for its use of the premium Nagoya Cochin chicken, and meticulous execution of each bowl.

Ambience at Oyakodon Senmonten Marukatsu is warmly lit and functional, meant for diners to grab a quick meal. The place is small, seating just about 8 people, and dominated by a high counter which blocks the open kitchen. Service at Oyakodon Senmonten Marukatsu is friendly, with the owners running the place themselves. Ordering is via vending machine, which dispenses tickets you hand over to staff. Cleaning up is done quickly, and fortunately, turnover is fast too. Food at Oyakodon Senmonten Marukatsu is traditional Japanese cuisine, focused on a single dish as per their name. This itself is evidence of their culinary mastery of this 1 dish, and I observed each order to be freshly made by hand. Portions are sized for individuals. Prices are affordable, budget about JPY ¥1,900 per person.

Oyakodon Senmonten Marukatsu Exterior

Oyakodon Senmonten Marukatsu Interior

Self-Ordering Kiosk

Seating

The Beer Asahi Super Dry (JPY ¥600) is a Japanese pale lager, brewed by Asahi Breweries in Tokyo, within the Kanto region of Japan. This bright, clear golden yellow brew has a tame aroma of hops, grass, corn, and apples, with a smooth, refreshing, medium body and medium carbonation. Taste is floral bitter sweet, with notes of wheat, rice, malted barley, and lemon citrus, with a super dry, crisp finish. Very drinkable.

Beer Asahi Super Dry (JPY ¥600)

Beer Asahi Super Dry

Their rendition of Dashi / Soup Stock (JPY ¥Complimentary), served to accompany each meal, is deliciously addictive. Highly recommended!

Dashi / Soup Stock (JPY ¥Complimentary)

Dashi / Soup Stock

Dashi / Soup Stock

Their Oyakodon / Oyako Donburi / Parent And Child Rice Bowl (JPY ¥1,490) is among the best renditions we've had. Homely and comforting, each bowl is meticulously prepared-to-order. Testament to the consistently high standards that they've mastered. Highly recommended!

Oyakodon / Oyako Donburi / Parent And Child Rice Bowl (JPY ¥1,490)

Oyakodon / Oyako Donburi / Parent And Child Rice Bowl

Oyakodon / Oyako Donburi / Parent And Child Rice Bowl

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Oden Ore-No Dashi
@ Ginza Metro Building 1F, 7 Chome-6-6 Ginza, Chuo, Tokyo, Kanto 104-0061, Japan
Opening Hours: Mon - Sat 4pm – 11pm, Sun 4pm – 10pm
https://www.oreno.co.jp/en/restaurants/oden-dashi

Established in July 2014 by the Ore No Company Limited Group, in Ginza, Tokyo, Kanto, Japan, the Oden Ore-No Dashi store is known for offering high-quality dishes at affordable prices. The intimate atmosphere promises a treat for all the senses, especially Oden Ore-No Dashi signature one-pot dish which is made with a traditional recipe. Click here for the full post.

Oden / Fish Cake Stew (JPY ¥2,680)

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Day 4
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Nadai Fuji Soba
@ 3 Chome-20-1 Uchikanda, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Kanto 101-0047, Japan
Opening Hours: Daily 24 Hours
https://fujisoba.co.jp/eng/

Opened in 1966 in Shibuya, Tokyo, Kanto, Japan, Nadai Fuji Soba was the first 24-hour Japanese casual dining restaurant. Today, Nadai Fuji Soba is a ubiquitous presence across cities, offering quick, filling, affordable everyday meals for the typical salarymen.

Ambience at Nadai Fuji Soba has an understated minimalism combined with modern aesthetics. Outlets typically feature clean lines, tasteful wooden accents, and bright functional lighting, with unadorned yet inviting decor. Service at Nadai Fuji Soba is efficient with a keen attention to detail. Staff demonstrate a deep knowledge of the menu, take care to ensure that dishes are fresh and served at peak quality, and clean up quickly when diners leave. The self-service ordering kiosks are easy to operate, with Japanese and English menus. Food at Nadai Fuji Soba is traditional and modern Japanese cuisine, focused on noodles and rice bowls. Ingredients are cheap but plentiful and of decent quality, meaning portions are large and filling for individuals, while prices are wallet-friendly and more affordable than elsewhere. Budget about JPY ¥1,000 per person.

Nadai Fuji Soba Exterior

Nadai Fuji Soba Interior

Facade

Seating

Nadai Fuji Soba Menu

The Kitsune Aburaage Soba / Fox Fried Tofu Buckwheat Noodles (JPY ¥450) is served warm, with a base of long thin soba / buckwheat noodles made with a ratio of 20% wheat flour to 80% buckwheat flour, resulting in a pleasant chewy soft texture with grainy sweet earthy flavour. The bowl is garnished with a medley of ingredients, including crunchy kombu seaweed with vegetal briny salty earthy flavour, crisp sliced green onions or spring onions with vegetal herbal sweet flavour, a wobbly soft onsen tamago / soft boiled egg with eggy sweet flavour, and a large piece of spongy soft aburaage / fried tofu with grainy sweet savoury flavour. The broth is full-flavoured and a bit too strong for my liking, but it can be diluted. Worth ordering!

Kitsune Aburaage Soba / Fox Fried Tofu Buckwheat Noodles (JPY ¥450)

Kitsune Aburaage Soba / Fox Fried Tofu Buckwheat Noodles

Kitsune Aburaage Soba / Fox Fried Tofu Buckwheat Noodles

The Kitsune Aburaage Udon / Fox Fried Tofu Udon Noodles (JPY ¥450) is served warm, with a base of long thick udon noodles that carries chewy soft texture with grainy sweet flavour. The bowl is garnished with a medley of ingredients, including crunchy kombu seaweed with vegetal briny salty earthy flavour, crisp sliced green onions or spring onions with vegetal herbal sweet flavour, a wobbly soft onsen tamago / soft boiled egg with eggy sweet flavour, and a large piece of spongy soft aburaage / fried tofu with grainy sweet savoury flavour. The broth is full-flavoured and a bit too strong for my liking, but it can be diluted. Worth ordering!

Kitsune Aburaage Udon / Fox Fried Tofu Udon Noodles (JPY ¥450)

Kitsune Aburaage Udon / Fox Fried Tofu Udon Noodles

Kitsune Aburaage Udon / Fox Fried Tofu Udon Noodles

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Toraya Café
@ Isetan Shinjuku B1, 3 Chrome-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Kanto 160-0022, Japan
Opening Hours: Daily 10am – 8pm
https://www.toraya-group.co.jp/shops/shop-20

Established by Enchu Kurokawa in the 16th century (said to be between 1526 to 1573) and formally incorporated as Toraya Confectionery Company Limited in 1947 in Akasaka, Minato, Tokyo, Kanto, Japan, this long-serving brand is best known for their traditional Japanese dessert confectioneries, known as wagashi. The brand is renowned for being a royal purveyor of wagashi for the Japanese Imperial Court of Emperor Go-Youzei, and today is still family-run by the 18th generation owner, Mitsuharu Kurokawa. While most of their outlets are takeaway only, Toraya Café is their casual sit-down dining concept which opened in April 2003. Toraya Café is a popular spot for high-tea, especially on weekends, so expect a short queue. Click here for the full post.

Wagashi / Dessert Confectionery - Traditional Set (JPY ¥3,080)

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Nihonbashi Nigiyaka Nigiri
@ Toyo Building B1, 1 Chome-2-10 Nihonbashi, Chuo, Tokyo, Kanto 103-0027, Japan
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 11am – 2pm, 5pm – 11pm, Sat - Sun 11am – 8pm
https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1302/A130202/13268050/

Established years before March 2022, Nihonbashi Nigiyaka Nigiri is popular amongst nearby office workers for their fresh seafood and sushi at wallet-friendly prices, set in an unpretentious and warm environment. It's evident that the owners of Nihonbashi Nigiyaka Nigiri have great pride in their food, service, and ambience. Click here for the full post.

Teishoku / Set Meal (JPY ¥1,100)

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Konbini / Convenience Stores - Seven-Eleven Japan Company Limited, FamilyMart Company Limited, Lawson Incorporated
@ 3 Chome-4-4 Nihonbashimuromachi, Chuo, Tokyo, Kanto 103-0022, Japan
Opening Hours: Daily 24 Hours
https://www.sej.co.jp/

The Konbini / Convenience Stores - Seven-Eleven Japan Company Limited, FamilyMart Company Limited, Lawson Incorporated; offers an impressive variety of ready-to-eat meals, snacks, and drinks that cater to every craving, providing quality food at affordable prices. Click above for the full post.

Miru Kurepu Keki / Mille Crepe Cake (JPY ¥278)

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Day 5
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Ichiran Incorporated
@ 1 Chome-17-10 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Kanto 160-0021, Japan
Opening Hours: Daily 24 Hours
https://ichiran.com/shop/tokyo/kabukicho/

With a history stretching back to 1960 in Fukuoka city, Fukuoka prefecture, Kyushu region, Japan, Ichiran Incorporated is amongst the most well known brands specialising in tonkotsu ramen noodles. Ichiran Incorporated is known for their solo-dining experience with diners seated at individual booths, and also their effortless ordering system with myriad customisable options.

Ambience at Ichiran Incorporated is bare-bones functional, with low lighting and small individual seating booths, where diners are enclosed to focus on eating quickly. Service at Ichiran Incorporated is fast yet private, with staff interacting from behind a panel. You never actually see their faces, but orders are prepared quickly, and cleaning up is done efficiently to turnaround for the next diner. Food at Ichiran Incorporated is traditional Japanese cuisine, specialising in tonkotsu ramen noodles. Portions are large and filling, and there is a good range of customisation options. Prices are slightly higher than other noodles shops, budget about JPY ¥1,570 / SGD $14 per person.

Ichiran Incorporated Exterior

Ichiran Incorporated Interior

Dining Booth

Seating

Their classic Tonkotsu Ramen With Seaweed And Seasoned Egg (JPY ¥1,570) is a delight, with the star being the rich and creamy thick pork bone collagen soup / broth, made from long slow stewing of 100% pork bones in pure filtered water. Notable for being odourless (and thus more accessible and pleasing to many) as well as having 0% trans-fat, the flavour profile of the soup / broth is enhanced when served, through a secret blend of 30 spices aged to perfection. Fantastic on a cold morning!

Tonkotsu Ramen With Seaweed And Seasoned Egg (JPY ¥1,570)

Tonkotsu Ramen With Seaweed And Seasoned Egg

Tonkotsu Ramen With Seaweed And Seasoned Egg

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Udon Maruka
@ New Surugadai Building 1F, 3 Chome-16-1 Kanda Ogawamachi, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Kanto 101-0052, Japan
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 11am – 4pm, 5pm – 7:30pm, Sat 11am – 2:30pm, Closed Sun
https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1310/A131003/13000629/

Founded in 1969, Udon Maruka is popular for its unwavering dedication to serving genuine Kagawa-style udon noodles. Udon Maruka is notable for its authenticity of flavour, efficient service, evocative ambience, consistency in food quality, and affordable value, unsurprisingly drawing a constant queue daily.

Ambience at Udon Maruka is unpretentious and minimalist. Customers are greeted by a crisp white noren curtain emblazoned with “udon” that hints at simplicity and tradition. The functional layout features warm lights, long communal wooden tables, and a clean spartan setting. Service at Udon Maruka is rapid and efficient, with staff taking your order while you queue, ensuring that it's served shortly after you're seated. This streamlined and courteous approach not only minimizes waiting time, but also increases speed and turnaround, with diners eating quickly and leaving. Staff also clean up tables fast. Food at Udon Maruka is traditional Japanese cuisine, focused on udon noodles. Made fresh daily, each bowl offers top-notch quality without compromise. Portions are large for individuals. Prices are affordable and wallet-friendly, budget about JPY ¥1,590 / SGD $15 per person.

Udon Maruka Exterior

Udon Maruka Interior

Udon Maruka Menu

The Beer Kirin Ichiban (JPY ¥640) is an American style pale lager, brewed by the Kirin Company in Tokyo, in the Kanto region of Japan. It has a clear, straw golden colour, with aromas of malt, grains, skunk, and lemon. The body is light, crisp, smooth, with lively carbonation, and tastes of bread, metal, grass, and cereal. Has a slight sweetness and slight bitterness. Very drinkable but light, and refreshing.

Beer Kirin Ichiban (JPY ¥640)

Beer Kirin Ichiban

The Niku Udon No Onsen Tamago / Beef Udon Noodles With Soft Boiled Egg (JPY ¥950) was delicious, with a generous helping of tender simmered beef and yellow onions, fresh green onions, and wispy katsuobushi / dried bonito fish flakes, over freshly made chewy udon noodles. Highly recommended!

Niku Udon No Onsen Tamago / Beef Udon Noodles With Soft Boiled Egg (JPY ¥950)

Niku Udon / Beef Udon Noodles

Niku Udon / Beef Udon Noodles

Niku Udon No Onsen Tamago / Beef Udon Noodles With Soft Boiled Egg

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Tentora
@ Shibuya Scramble Square 13F, 2 Chome-24-12 Shibuya, Tokyo, Kanto 150-0002, Japan
Opening Hours: Daily 11am – 10pm
https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1303/A130301/13240252/

Opened in November 2019, Tentora (specifically the Tentora Shibuya Sukuranburu Sukuea Ten Restaurant) is a stylish quick casual eatery offering tasty and filling tempura rice bowls. Popular with both locals and tourists, Tentora often attracts a queue during peak meal periods. Click here for the full post.

Tempura Moriawase Donburi Ranchi Setto / Tempura Assortment Rice Bowl Lunch Set (JPY ¥1,600)

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Sushiro (Akindo Sushiro Company Limited)
@ Oriental Building B1, 6 Chome-9-9 Ueno, Taito, Tokyo, Kanto 110-0005, Japan
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 11am – 11pm, Sat - Sun 10:30am – 11pm

@ Bic Camera Yurakucho Store 6F, 1 Chome-11-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Kanto 100-0006, Japan
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 10:30am – 10:30pm, Sat - Sun 10am – 10:30pm
https://www.akindo-sushiro.co.jp/en/

The Akindo Sushiro Company Limited, commonly known simply as Sushiro, was founded by brothers Yoshio Shimizu and Yutaka Shimizu in June 1984 in Toyonaka, Osaka, Kansai, Japan. Beloved for offering a wide variety of quality zushi / sushi at wallet-friendly prices in accessible settings, Sushiro is the country's largest conveyor belt sushi chain, and has since expanded globally to 10 countries/regions. Click here for the full post.

Zuwaigani Zushi Kozara / Snow Crab Sushi Tasting Plate (JPY ¥390)

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Day 6
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Tomiya
@ 1 Chome-19-2 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Kanto 160-0023, Japan
Opening Hours: Daily 10:30am – 10pm
https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1304/A130401/13011949/

Established some time before July 2015, Tomiya, also known as Miso Ramen Tomiya, is a no-frills ramen stall specialising in Hokkaido style miso ramen noodles. Often frequented by locals and salarymen working in the area, Tomiya remains largely under-the-radar.

Ambience at Tomiya is designed for functionality. The simple no-frills layout features practical counter seating showing signs of age around the open kitchen, lit by warm lights. The aroma that perfumes the place is a mix of grilling meat and stir-fried vegetables, and leaving with the scent clinging to clothes may be a concern, though delicious. Service at Tomiya is efficient and businesslike. Staff are courteous and fulfil orders efficiently, cleaning up quickly when diners leave. Ordering and payment is via kiosk; you then hand the order chit to the staff. The overall service experience is decent, consistent with the establishment’s position as a fast budget-friendly casual eatery. Food at Tomiya is traditional Japanese cuisine, focused on miso ramen noodles. The star is the rich soup / broth, rich and well-balanced with shichimi togarashi / 7-flavour chili pepper and the robust aroma of grilled meat and wok-tossed vegetables. Portions are sized for individuals. Prices are wallet-friendly and affordable, budget about JPY ¥1,740 / SGD $15 per person.

Tomiya Exterior

Tomiya Interior

Tomiya Menu

The Beer Sapporo Premium (JPY ¥640) is an American style, bright straw golden lager, brewed by Sapporo Breweries Limited in Shibuya, Tokyo, in the Kanto region of Japan. It has mild aromas of grass, corn, hops, and malt, with a crisp, clean, and light body texture. Flavours of rice, metal, green apple, and wheat husk, with a moderate carbonation. Finish is quick, clean, with little bitterness but slight metallic undertones, yet still remains refreshing.

Beer Sapporo Premium (JPY ¥640)

Beer Sapporo Premium

The Special Mix Miso Ramen (JPY ¥1,100) is notable for its uniquely layered miso soup / broth, a carefully crafted blend of different miso types with a hint of shichimi togarashi / 7-flavour chili pepper. Generous with ingredients, this is a hearty, fulfilling, and satisfying bowl of ramen noodles. Highly recommended!

Special Mix Miso Ramen (JPY ¥1,100)

Special Mix Miso Ramen

Special Mix Miso Ramen

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Torikizoku
@ Kawashin Building 6F, 1 Chome-14-3 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Kanto 160-0021, Japan
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 4pm – 4am, Sat - Sun 1pm – 4am

@ The Lenka Building 6F, 1 Chome-5-9 Dogenzaka, Shibuya, Tokyo, Kanto 150-0043, Japan
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 5pm – 4am, Sat - Sun 3pm – 4am
https://torikizoku.co.jp/

Founded in November 1985 in Higashiosaka, Osaka, Kansai, Japan, by Tadashi Okura, Torikizoku is an accessible family-friendly kushiyaki / grilled skewers restaurant chain with a winning formula. It offers a wide variety of delicious and consistently well-executed charcoal-grilled skewers, in a casual setting at affordable prices, with convenient locations (over 1,130 outlets) that open till the wee hours of the morning. No surprise that Torikizoku is crowded during peak meal periods, with local salarymen, families, students, and tourists patiently queuing for seats. Click here for the full post.

Yakitori Kushi / Grilled Chicken Skewers

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Sukiya
@ Shinjuku NS Building 1F, 2 Chome-4-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Kanto 163-0801, Japan
Opening Hours: Daily 7am – 11pm
https://maps.sukiya.jp/jp/detail/1816.html

Founded by Kentaro Ogawa in June 1982, in Yokohama, Kanagawa, Kanto, Japan, Sukiya is a wallet-friendly quick casual chain of restaurants specialising in beef rice bowls. Known for their convenient locations and accessibility, Sukiya is popular for its authentic taste, healthy dishes, speed of service, and low prices.

Ambience at Sukiya exudes a bright, clean, and inviting atmosphere that reflects modern Japanese design sensibilities. The simple wooden furnishings are thoughtfully arranged with a mix of counter seating and tables. Service at Sukiya is swift and courteous, with staff fulfilling orders and cleaning up quickly, even during busy periods. The specific outlet I visited seemed rather kind, allowing elderly to linger most of the day. Food at Sukiya is a mix of traditional and modern Japanese cuisine, focused on beef rice bowls. Diners can customise these in a variety of ways, and quality is consistently decent. Portions are sized for individuals. Prices are affordable and pocket-friendly, budget about JPY ¥1,200 / SGD $11 per person.

Sukiya Exterior

Sukiya Interior

Sukiya Menu

The Beer Asahi Super Dry (JPY ¥630) is a Japanese pale lager, brewed by Asahi Breweries in Tokyo, within the Kanto region of Japan. This bright, clear golden yellow brew has a tame aroma of hops, grass, corn, and apples, with a smooth, refreshing, medium body and medium carbonation. Taste is floral bitter sweet, with notes of wheat, rice, malted barley, and lemon citrus, with a super dry, crisp finish. Very drinkable.

Beer Asahi Super Dry (JPY ¥630)

Beer Asahi Super Dry

The Gyudon / Gyu Donburi / Simmered Beef And Onion Rice Bowl (JPY ¥690) is pure comfort food, tasty and satisfying. Piping hot and so healthy with the generous topping of vegetables. Highly recommended!

Gyudon / Gyu Donburi / Simmered Beef And Onion Rice Bowl (JPY ¥690)

Gyudon / Gyu Donburi / Simmered Beef And Onion Rice Bowl

Gyudon / Gyu Donburi / Simmered Beef And Onion Rice Bowl

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MOS Burger
@ 7 Chome-1-8 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Kanto 160-0023, Japan
Opening Hours: Daily 8am – 9pm
https://www.mos.jp/shop/detail/?shop_cd=01394

Established by Satoshi Sakurada in July 1972 in Narimasu, Itabashi, Tokyo, Kanto, Japan, MOS Food Services Incorporated, more commonly known as MOS Burger, is a multinational fast-food restaurant chain with over 1,750 stores across 7 countries, specialising in fusion Japanese American items, notably, rice burgers. The name 'MOS Burger' is a tongue-in-cheek reference to 'Mountain, Ocean, Sun' as quipped by the founder, although no one is able to explain what mountains, oceans, or suns have to do with burgers. Curiously, the founder's previous company was named 'Merchandising Organizing System'.

Ambience at MOS Burger is bright and spacious with soft background music that encourages lingering. The modern furnishings are themed around nature, with hues of white, green, and wood brown. Service at MOS Burger is polite and helpful, with staff patiently working through customization requests. Cleaning up is expected to be self-service as diners clear their own trash. Food at MOS Burger is fusion Japanese American cuisine, with ingredients sourced fresh daily from local farms. They're known for several unique signature dishes, including the grilled rice burger (made with white rice, barley, and millet), or the lettuce-wrapped natsumi burger. Portions are sized for individuals. Prices are comparable to elsewhere, budget about JPY ¥1,380 / SGD $12 per person.

MOS Burger Signage

MOS Burger Exterior

MOS Burger Interior

Seating

Seating

MOS Burger Philosophy

MOS Burger Philosophy

MOS Burger Menu

The Suntory Pop Melon Soda (JPY ¥200) is a vibrant green carbonated beverage that is a nostalgic soft drink. Produced by Suntory, with a blend of high-fructose corn syrup, carbonated water, artificial melon flavourings, and colouring agents, it has a strong artificial melon flavour which is candied fruity sweet in flavour, with a fizzy lively texture.

Suntory Pop Melon Soda (JPY ¥200)

Suntory Pop Melon Soda

The Tomorokoshi Supu / Corn Potage Soup (JPY ¥380) is an unexpectedly beloved side order, puréed, strained, and slow simmered till it achieves a pleasant creamy thick smooth texture with bright grainy sweet savoury flavour, enhanced with black pepper for a peppery spice kick. Made from a blend of Hokkaido corn kernels, fresh milk, sautéed yellow onions, unsalted butter, and water. Notably, salt is deliberately restrained, so you get a clean natural taste. Highly recommended!

Tomorokoshi Supu / Corn Potage Soup (JPY ¥380)

Tomorokoshi Supu / Corn Potage Soup

For those that can't decide which side order they want, there's the Furaido Poteto To Onion Ringu / Potato Fries And Onion Rings (JPY ¥330) to bring you the best of both worlds. There's crisp fluffy potato fries with salty savoury starchy flavour, and crunchy tender onion rings with vegetal earthy salty sweet flavour. Good!

Furaido Poteto To Onion Ringu / Potato Fries And Onion Rings (JPY ¥330)

Furaido Poteto To Onion Ringu / Potato Fries And Onion Rings

The Kaisen Kakiage Shio Raisu Baga / Salted Seafood And Vegetables Patty Rice Burger (JPY ¥460) is a signature burger here. The burger 'buns' are made from rice patties, a blend of white rice, barley, and millet, formed into patties and glazed with light soy sauce and dark soy sauce, then grilled, resulting in a smoky grainy salty savoury sweet flavour, and a crisp exterior and soft sticky interior. Filled with a fist-sized kakiage tempura fritter of seafood and vegetables, comprising deshelled prawns, squid, yellow onions, carrots, and edamame / immature soy beans, sprinkled with shio / salt and drizzled with sesame oil, carrying a gentle crisp crunch and bright briny shrimpy salty savoury vegetal sweet earthy nutty flavour. The overall pairing is a delight, a showcase of traditional flavours and modern ingenuity. Highly recommended!

Kaisen Kakiage Shio Raisu Baga / Salted Seafood And Vegetables Patty Rice Burger (JPY ¥460)

Kaisen Kakiage Shio Raisu Baga / Salted Seafood And Vegetables Patty Rice Burger

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Day 7
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CoCo Ichibanya
@ Yoshikawa Building 1F, 1 Chome-18-10 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Kanto 160-0021, Japan
Opening Hours: Daily 8am – 11pm
https://tenpo.ichibanya.co.jp/map/2493/

Founded by Tokuji Munetsugu in January 1978 in Ichinomiya, Aichi, Chubu, Japan, CoCo Ichibanya (or formally known as Ichibanya Company Limited) is an international quick-casual restaurant chain specialising in curry rice, operating over 180 stores across 13 countries. CoCo Ichibanya is well regarded for its tasty and filling dishes of curry rice, no-frills ambience, quick service, accessible locations, and affordable prices.

Ambience at CoCo Ichibanya is bright, modern, and clean, with ample natural and ambient lighting. The cramped seating area has modern furnishings, comfortable yet understated and functional. Service at CoCo Ichibanya is brisk and helpful. The multi-language ordering system is intuitive, and staff are quick at fulfilling orders or cleaning up. Food at CoCo Ichibanya is traditional Japanese cuisine, focused on curry rice. Simply, hearty, accessible, and consistently tasty and satisfying, it's little wonder that this is a casual eatery of choice for students. Portions are medium to large for individuals. Prices are wallet-friendly and affordable, budget about JPY ¥1,300 / SGD $12 per person.

CoCo Ichibanya Exterior

CoCo Ichibanya Interior

The Hayashi Kare To Tonkatsu / Hashed Beef Curry Rice With Breaded Pork Cutlet (JPY ¥1,273) is a different spin on the typical Gyu Kare / Beef Curry. The base still features steamed white rice and assorted pickles, the former fluffy soft with grainy sweet flavour, the latter crunchy juicy with vegetal sour sweet flavour for contrast. There's still scattered pieces of tender sliced seared beef that carry meaty savoury flavour. However, the difference here is the 'curry' is actually a rich demi-glace sauce, made with all-purpose flour, butter, tomato paste, white onions, shiitake mushrooms, celery, carrots, salt, beef stock, bay leaf, thyme, black pepper, and parsley, resulting in a thick creamy demi-glace sauce with robust meaty savoury salty vegetal sweet spice flavour. Completed with a crisp outside tender inside breaded tonkatsu pork cutlet with meaty savoury sweet bready flavour.