Tokyo Food Tips and Trends

Tokyo Food Tips and Trends

April 2019

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Nihombashi Takashimaya has re-opened its rooftop garden. There are many picnic tables, some with shades for sunny days. Pick up a bento and a beer in the depachika and enjoy lunch with a view.

Sushi Mitsukawa from Kanazawa has opened a branch in Roppongi Hills. 

Tsukiji Turret Coffee has a pop-up shop at Ginza Sony Park until May 31. It’s known for espresso-based drinks and beautiful latte art. This season’s flavor is sakura and azuki latte.

Aging seafood and meat has been around for a long time, notably with tuna and wagyu beef. Soba-ya Nichiyoan (7-13-2 Shibamata, Katsushika-ku) ages buckwheat for two to three years resulting in more umami and inherent sweetness in the soba. Jukusei Shitsu (2-33-6 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku) in Shimokitazawa serves up aged produce such as avocados, turnips, cabbage and apples in its dishes.

Onaka Peko Peko has opened at Tsukiji Market. It’s an onigiri shop by day and tachinomi bar by night. 

The Counter Burger from Santa Monica has opened a branch in Tokyo Midtown. Diners customize their own sandwich by selecting each component from protein options (chicken and fish), a homemade vegan veggie bun, cheese, sauce, toppings and even the sides. There’s an intriguing selection of drinks including spiked shakes such as a dreamsicle of Cointreau, orange and honey. 

One of the world’s favorite Chinese restaurants Choy Choy Kitchen has opened up in Nishi-Azabu.

If you like this month’s Insider’s Guide, you might also like last month’s tips and trends.