If you’re interested in Hakata city’s regional specialties, then you can start with the best Fukuoka ramen from our top 6 recommendation Hakata tonkotsu ramen.
Ramen is the most favorite and famous Japanese dishes. The noodles soup is made with wheat noodles in a tasty broth served with sliced pork, boiled egg, scallions, dried seaweed, and other ingredients.
Many regions offer their own version of ramen and it tastes different for every city. Among them, tonkotsu ramen is one of the most beloved ramens. But did you know, Hakata Fukuoka is the birthplace for this flavorful ramen? Eating a bowl of tonkotsu ramen is a must-do when visiting Fukuoka. The Hakata tonkotsu ramen can be overwhelming rich after a few slurps. You’ll either love it or hate it.
Top 6 Best Fukuoka Ramen
I am a lover of Hakata tonkotsu ramen and truly enjoy my ramen hunt when visiting Fukuoka. From the renowned chain store Ichiran ramen, Ippudo, local ramen restaurant to yatai, there are lots of ramen specialties shops to choose from. A hearty bowl of ramen really makes your days after a tiring trip.
Here is my pick of the best Fukuoka ramen that we ate during our visit:
Ichiran Ramen
Shin Shin Ramen
Shodai Hidechan
Hakata Ikkousha
Hakata Issou
Kurume Taiho Ramen
Let’s start with our food trip for the best Fukuoka ramen in Hakata.
What is Fukuoka style Ramen?
Fukuoka aka Hakata style ramen is tonkotsu broth cooked at a rolling boil and served with thin, sturdy noodles. The flavorful porky soup is the heart of this Hakata ramen. The creamy broth is simmered by pork bones for more than 10 hours, packed with fat globules floating on top.
Where can I eat Hakata Ramen in Fukuoka?
You can be sure you will be absolutely spoiled for choice when it comes to looking for where to eat Hakata ramen in Fukuoka. Try the Hakata ramen at renowned chain stores, local ramen shops, or Yatai stalls in Fukuoka city.
What is most popular tonkotsu ramen in Fukuoka?
The top 6 most popular Tonkotsu Ramen from Fukuoka City loved by the locals is Hakata Ikkousha, Ichiran ramen, Hakata Issou, Shin Shin Ramen, Shodai Hidechan, and Kurume Taiho Ramen.
Ichiran Ramen
Ichiran Ramen
The most popular and famous Hakata tonkotsu ramen for sure is Ichiran ramen. It might also where the tonkotsu ramen begin to spread all across Japan and worldwide. This is no one who can visit Japan without a taste of Ichiran ramen with a kaedama. It won’t go wrong with this famous ramen chain in Japan. In fact, you can try the Ichiran ramen in other cities, but I wouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit the Ichiran ramen main shop in Fukuoka.
I personally love the buttered porky broth from Ichiran ramen. The strong, bold flavor is cooked to perfection by Ichiran’s secret sauce. You can also customize your Ichiran ramen from mild, normal, strong to extra-strong flavor and choose your level of dashi, chili, richness, the type of onions, with or without pork and the noodle texture. Just tailor your Ichiran ramen with their custom form and order your ramen at the vending machine at the entrance.
Best Fukuoka Ramen – Ichiran
You couldn’t possibly miss the multi-story building festooned with bright red lanterns. But what’s so special for Ichiran ramen in Fukuoka’s main shop is its yatai design dining area on the ground floor and rectangular bowls which something special compared with other branches. Added, the unique dining experience in private individual counter seats, set apart from other ramen restaurants while enjoying for this traditional ramen
There are always long queues by locals and visitors, waiting to savor for a satisfying bowl of Ichiran ramen. A bowl of Ichiran ramen costs about ¥890 and you can get the refill noodles at a low price at ¥300.
Ichiran Main Shop Nakasu Address: 5-3-2, Nakasu, Hakata, Fukuoka 810-0801 Fukuoka Prefecture Opening Hours: Daily 24 hours! Getting there: Three minutes walk from Nakasu Kawabata Subway (Exit 2)
Shin Shin Ramen
Shin Shin Ramen – Best Hakata Ramen
There is a reason why people stand in line to get a bowl of Shin Shin ramen. It is one of the popular best Hakata ramens in Fukuoka and highly recommended by locals for a better taste of ramen. It got a unique taste compared with the normal creamy rich pork broth, dissimulated by the sesame oil, sesame seeds, and pickled ginger.
The Shin Shin Ramen is cooked to perfection. The broth is creamy but not as heavy and greasy as other tonkatsu that I’ve had. The short-cooked noodle is the thinner type and firm with a nice springy texture. It went well with the flavorful broth. Moreover, the pork slices in my ramen were so tender and perfectly seasoned. Everything was superb.
Shin Shin Ramen
Our ramen food hunt on Shin Shin Ramen on the second floor of the “ramen street” above the JR station. You can smell it from around the corner. Depending on the line, you might need to wait at least 30 minutes to get the seat in the shop. We waited for about 20 minutes at a non-peak hour.
A bowl of Shin Shin Ramen is at a much cheaper price compare with other ramen chain shops. A bowl of ramen with half boiled egg was about ¥700. Besides, it also offers lunch special meals with fried rice and gyoza for a complete meal.
Shin Shin Hakata Deitos (シンシン) Address: 1-1 Hakataeki Chuogai, Hakata, Fukuoka 812-0012 Fukuoka Prefecture Opening Hours: From 10:00 am to 12:00 am
Shodai Hidechan
Shodai Hidechan Ramen
On the 5th floor of Canal City shopping sits a Ramen Stadium. It has a total of eight different ramen restaurants to choose from in this complex. Each of the ramen shops is loved by locals and has its own supporter. Among all, Shodai Hidechan probably is the most popular tonkatsu at the Ramen Stadium.
Shodai Hidechan specializes in pork neck broth. Their signature ramen was flavorful with thin noodles with the porky broth. It was truly decent but not as creamy as another tonkatsu ramen I’ve had. The pork slices were divine and the added sprouts give the freshness for the ramen. For me, it is good ramen but nothing outstanding.
In short, Shodai Hidechan ramen is highly recommended is you are looking for a bowl of good ramen at a reasonable price
Shodai Hidechan (初代 秀ちゃん) Address: 1-2-25 Sumiyoshi Ramen Studium 5F, Hakata, Fukuoka 812-0018 Fukuoka Prefecture Opening Hours: From 11:00 am to 11:00 pm
Hakata Issou
Hakata Issou – Best Fukuoka Ramen
The local favorite Hakata Issou is one of the most popular Hakata ramens in Fukuoka. It is often listed in the best tonkotsu ramen in Fukuoka by various publications. The best part for Hakata Issou is it uses premium local pork, simmered into an ultra-rich pork-based soup. Together with firm noodles, this flavorful ramen is topped with green onion, seaweed, and delicious pork slides.
Hakata Issou is famous for its signature Fukuoka ramen, which is thick and flavourful. So, be prepared for the creamy hearty pork broth. The price of a bowl of ramen from Hakata Issou costs ¥890, slightly more expensive compare with other ramen restaurants. But it definitely worth the price.
Apparently, Hakata Issou only has two branches in Fukuoka city. We recommended visiting the one in Nakasu which is more accessible by public transport.
Hakata Issou (博多一双) Address: 3 Chome-1-6 Hakataekihigashi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0013, Japan Opening Hours: From 11:00 am to 12:00 am Getting there: 6 minutes walk from Hakata Station
Hakata Issou Nakasu Address: 2-6-6 Nakasu, Hakata-ku, Nakasu, Hakata, Fukuoka 810-0801, Fukuoka Prefecture Opening Hours: From 11:00 am to 12:00 am Getting there: 5 minutes walk from Nakasukawabata Subway Station
Hakata Ikkousha
Hakata Ikkousha – Best Fukuoka Ramen
Another world-famous ramen chain that origin from Fukuoka. Hakata Ikkousha rated as one of the best ramens in Fukuoka and has many branches around Japan and worldwide.
We tried the best ramen from Hakata Ikkousha for supper after a tiring trip. It was still full of locals even after 9 pm. I ordered the hot item with Ikkousha’s specially prepared extra pork slices topped on the noodle bowl. WOW. We were amazed by its extra pork slides that served across the ramen bowl. It was still slightly under raw when it was served. It was slowly heating up by the hot broth so that it will not overcook. Amazing!
The noodles have prominent wheat favor. It was firm and thin, just like the traditional Hakata style. While the pork broth is very creamy and tasty, but not too heavy. There was free garlic, ginger, and pepper to add according to your preference. Great quality at a reasonable price. One of the best ramen I’ve tasted.
Hakata Ikkousha Hakata Main Branch (博多一幸舎 博多本店) Address: 103 Kowa Building, 3-23-12 Hakataeki-mae, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka-ken Opening Hours: Daily from 11:00 am to 24:00 am and 11:00 am to 21:00 pm on Sunday.
Kurume Taiho Ramen
Mukashi-Chaa-Shuu-Men from Kurume Taiho Rame
The Kurume Taiho Ramen is a traditional style of ramen compared to the flavorful Hakata ramen. It is an authentic ramen shop in Fukuoka that love by locals.
The noodle is standard Fukuoka’s style, which is thin and firm. But the star of Kurume Taiho was definitely its pork broth. Its iron pot was never empty to continue simmered over time, from the past to the present. So no surprise the broth is full of history with satisfying flavor. It definitely can give you a breathtaking taste by its thicken broth. Rich in flavor but not too salty.
The Mukashi-Chaa-Shuu-Men is their chef’s favorite at the price of ¥900.
Kurume Taiho Ramen
Overall, Kurume Taiho Ramen is above average as it does not give me the overwhelming taste. But, if you’re just looking for a classic Kyushu style tonkatsu ramen, Kurume Taihi Ramen is a good choice.
Kurume Taiho Ramen (久留米 大砲ラーメン) Address: 1-23-8 Imaizumi Chie Bldg. 1F, Chuo, Fukuoka 810-0021 Fukuoka Prefecture Opening Hours: From 10:30 am to 10:00 pm
Overview: The Best Fukuoka Ramen
So, what’s your vote for the best Fukuoka ramen? For sure everyone will have their own liking when it comes to the thickness of noodles, flavorful broth, and topping. We truly enjoy our food review on this best Fukuoka ramen food tour. But, there are so many good hidden ramen shops scattered around Fukuoka city, and we only have a chance to taste a few of it during our visit to Kyushu. Let us know if you have other good recommendations so that I can plan for my next Fukuoka ramen food hunt trip.
Lastly, this Fukuoka best ramen review is part of our Kyushu food trip when visiting Fukuoka. If you are interested, continue to read our travel story for amazing attractions and the best food in Kyushu.
Here is the Tokyo food guide for what and where to eat in Tokyo. A food blog that listed down all the must-eat best Japanese food.
If you are going to Tokyo, you are going to want Japan’s best food. Tokyo is a fierce battleground among restaurants that serve delicious Japanese cuisine. The city’s food scene is truly vast, encompassing a range of local styles, as well as regional variations. No doubt, the city is also widely considered the Japanese food capital of Japan and also the world. Besides traditional Japanese food, Tokyo also plays an important role in combining Japanese food culture with various Asian and Western cuisine. It is one of the world’s most exciting dining destinations. There is so much amazing food in Tokyo, as well as the best cafes and restaurants that you hardly can’t miss.
I was so excited whenever return to Tokyo to visit. Although the amazing lively city is one reason, the marvelous Japanese food was another main driving force. If you’re wondering what to eat in Tokyo, you’re in the right place!
It’s safe to say I ate a lot since my first visit to Tokyo but I’d far from sampled everything. I’m so much more into blogging and finding the best food and restaurant in Tokyo after my few visits. It was inevitable that this Tokyo food guide was on this blog. Hope all these Tokyo’s best food can give you some tiniest ideas on where and what to eat in Tokyo.
If the Tokyo trip is a food tour, I am sure these are the local dishes that you just have to try. Read on my Tokyo food blog here!
As you plan out your Tokyo food hunt, there are some of the other things you don’t want to miss out on. Tokyo is home to thousands of Japanese food, it can be pretty daunting if you’re planning a short trip. If you need some help finding what to eat in Tokyo, here are the best recommended Tokyo restaurants to get you started.
In this Tokyo food guide for food lovers, find out where are the best places to eat in the city whether it’s sushi, udon, ramen, yakitori, dessert, and more. Below is the variety of food that we tried during our past Tokyo trips.
Tokyo Food Guide: Must-Eat Best Food in Tokyo (Where To Try Them)
Japanese Dessert, Cake, and Pastry – Harbs Mille Crepe, Harajuku Crepe, Animal cafe at Harajuku and Shinkuju area
Japanese Street Food – Grill seafood, tamagoyaki, takoyaki, yakisoba, taiyaki, Mitarashi dango, and more.
Western food in Tokyo – Luke’s Lobster Shinjuku
There are still many more of Tokyo’s best food and restaurants awaiting you to discover!
What food is Tokyo famous for?
Tokyo is best known for its sushi, ramen, and izakaya. It is the top best food to eat when you visit Tokyo.
How much does food cost in Tokyo?
The meal prices in Tokyo can vary and the average meal price in Tokyo normally costs about ¥1,500 per person. While there is no upper limit when comes to a high-class restaurant. Besides, expected the dinner price will be more experience than lunch.
How much money do I need for food for 1 day in Tokyo?
We recommended a budget of ¥4,000 to ¥6,000 for one day of food in Tokyo.
Where To Eat Cheap in Tokyo?
There are a lot of cheap eats to be found in Tokyo. It is easy to find cheap food and chain store that offer inexpensive food.
Tokyo Food Tips: For seamless food hunting, make sure to get connected when visiting Tokyo. Always book the 4G Sim Card and Wifi Rental from Klook at a cheaper price!
Sushi | 寿司
The ONE Food that must eat in Tokyo is sushi and sashimi, the most well-known food in Japan. When people think of Japanese food, the first thing that comes to mind is sushi. It is a Japanese national dish and also probably the most important food in Japan.
The sushi is served topped with a sliver of raw fish with vinegared rice or in slides as sashimi. You can get them in many places throughout the world and even in your home country. But trust me, for the original flavor and most quality sushi, Japan is still the number one serving the best sushi.
Where to eat sushi in Tokyo:
You can get sushi at high-end sushi restaurants, a sushi bar, a local market, and even convenience stores in Tokyo and all over Japan. But for the fresh sushi, don’t hesitate to proceed to the local market. Tsukiji market is home to one of the largest fish markets in Tokyo, with a lively tuna auction that is held in the early morning. A Tokyo food hunt wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of the sushi restaurants in the fish market.
Daiwa Sushi and Sushi Dai
Omakase set from Daiwa Sushi
No doubt Daiwa Sushi and also Sushi Dai are the most popular sushi restaurant in Tokyo’s local market. Both are the two sushi restaurants that constantly get reviewed for their best sushi in Tokyo.
We visited Daiwa Sushi during one of our visits to Tokyo. And this was the first time we tried the omakase (chef’s selection style) in Japan. The simple yet extremely fresh sushi is nothing that you’ll die for. All served with extremely fresh ingredients. It was such a glorious food experience and probably the best sushi that I’ve eaten in my life.
Take note that long lines are always in front of these two popular shops. But if you really want to try sushi, for sure you will be waiting in line. Don’t miss out!
Note: Daiwa Sushi and Sushi Dai are moved from the Tsukiji market to the Toyosu market in 2019. But no worry, both still serve the fresh best sushi in Tokyo.
Daiwa Sushi, Toyosu
Address: Japan, 〒135-0061 Tokyo, Koto City, Toyosu, 6 Chome−3−2 ５街区 青果棟 １階
Opening Hours: From 6 am to 1 pm (Closed on Sunday and Wednesday)
Sushi Dai, Toyosu
Address: 6 Chome-5-1 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061, Japan
Opening Hours: From 5:30 am to 2:30 pm (Closed on Sunday and Wednesday)
Conveyor belt Sushi | 回転寿司
Conveyor Belt Sushi (“kaitenzushi” in Japanese) (回転寿司) is very popular among locals and travelers. Here you can savor some tasty sushi and a uniquely Japanese food dining experience. The sushi is served on a conveyor belt that goes around the center of the restaurant. So it’s convenient and easy to pick out your favorite sushi since you just need to reach out and pluck the plate off the belt! The food menu can be ranging from authentic sushi to creative ones with more than a hundred delicious dishes to choose from.
Japan is one of the most expensive countries, but you can travel around on a budget. Among all the Japanese food, sushi tends to conjure up images of wealth and can easily cost more than ¥3,000. You’ll surely be surprised at the wide availability of conveyor belt sushi restaurants in Tokyo that offer delicious sushi at truly reasonable prices
Where To Eat Conveyor belt Sushi in the budget in Tokyo: We recommended Kura Sushi and Sushiro to enjoy Japan’s longtime affordable and delicious fast food.
Kura Sushi
Kura Sushi is Japan’s leading conveyor belt sushi chain, literally can be found in almost all of Japan. It is beloved not only by visitors but also by Japanese people. Most of their food menu items are incredibly cheap with just ¥100 per plate. Besides, all the food’s pretty good and also complimentary green tea. Kura Sushi definitely one of our top choices when looking for the best budget sushi in Tokyo.
There is almost 400 Kura Sushi restaurant in Japan. Just find the Kura Sushi near you!
Sushiro
Another famous conveyor belt sushi chain in Japan, Sushi-Ro is very popular among Japanese students and families. It has branches all throughout Japan and even in Hokkaido. You can either choose your items from the conveyor belt or order from the screen in front of you. The panel screen is offered in Japanese, English, and Korean language with the item image display. So it is very easy to order your favorite sushi dishes!
Aside from their standard sushi menu, they have been introducing a variety of meat sushi menus. It is a good, cheap, and delicious dining option when looking for the best cheap conveyor belt sushi in Tokyo.
Ramen | ラーメン
Next, a hot bowl of Japanese ramen is one of the must-eat food in the Tokyo food guide. This noodles soup dish is made with noodles, topped with sliced pork or a variety of ingredients in a flavorful broth.
Everyone probably has their own take on the best ramen in Tokyo and the broth is one of the important factors in making good ramen. You’ll find different types of ramen with their own signature broth from the different regions; such as Miso ramen from Sapporo, Shio ramen from Hakodate, and finally my favorite heavy creamy tonkatsu ramen from Fukuoka.
Ramen is always one of the best food to eat on a windy day or after a tiring trip. Just slurp away the noodles and big sip of the soup. It is such a satisfaction!
Generally, a bowl of ramen costs about ¥800 to ¥1500, depending on the portion and topped up ingredients. One of the best cheap eats in Tokyo.
Where To eat Tokyo Best Ramen: There are endless ramen shops in Tokyo serving the best ramen in a variety of flavors. You can get the ramen from internationally renowned chain ramen shops to local ramen shops.
Mutekiya Ramen Ikebukuro
Mutekiya Best Tokyo Ramen
If I can only up for one ramen in Tokyo, go with this one. Personally, I prefer Mutekiya Ramen Ikebukuro which is probably the best ramen shop in Tokyo. The extremely tasty ramen with flavorful broth is topped with generous slides of pork. Heart and extremely addicted. I am sure you will come back again after your first visit! Of course, we ate more than one time here.
Mutekiya is a traditional tidy ramen restaurant that only can fit about 20 people. It serves the taste of flavorful ramen with generous pork slides yet at affordable prices. Always a long queue. Must-eat ramen in Tokyo.
Address: Japan, 〒171-0022 Tokyo, Toshima City, Minamiikebukuro, 1 Chome−17−1 崎本ビル1F
Opening Hours: From 10:30 am to 4:00 pm (Daily)
Ichiran Ramen
Ichiran Ramen
If you don’t have any idea to look for the best ramen in Tokyo, Ichiran (一蘭) may be one of the best places to begin your Tokyo ramen journey. I am Ichiran ramen addicted and always look for the opportunity to eat a bowl of Ichiran ramen whenever visit Japan. Origin from Fukuoka, Ichiran ramen is the most famous ramen chain shop in Japan and they even have branches in Asia.
Ichiran ramen is famous for tonkatsu ramen. The pork bones are simmered for hours until the marrow is unleashed and turns into the milky tasty white broth. Topped with scallions and slices of pork meat, I have the ramen that I like!
Ichiran ramen is present in 65 locations thorough Japan. Just walk into any Ichiran ramen that suits your itinerary. The pictured bowl of Ichiran ramen was tried in Ueno Station. Oh yeah, the Ueno Ichiran Ramen is open 24 hours per day.
Address: Japan, 〒110-0005 Tokyo, Taito City, Ueno, 7 Chome−1−1 アトレ上野
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (Daily)
Chuka Soba Tomita Ramen
Tokyo Best Tsukemen at Chuka Soba Tomita Ramen
Ramen lovers, for sure will know Chuka Soba Tomita Ramen (中華蕎麦 とみ田), the most famous shop among all the top ramen shops. The award-winning tsukemen has won the grand prize in TRY (Tokyo Ramen of the Year) for 4 consecutive years and many Ramen tournaments. It is the best tsukemen I’ve tasted in Japan!
Due to its popularity, it is a bit time-consuming and hassles to taste the best Tokyo ramen. We spend a total of 5 hours in order to taste this marvelous bowl of tsukemen including the traveling time from the Tokyo Hotel via JR train. Check out our Tokyo food blog below if you want to know more.
The Ichifuku (らぁめん 一福) is a renowned miso ramen shop run by a female chef. It is a Michelin-Starred Ramen trucked in the back of buzzing Fudo-dori shopping street in Shibuya. Unlike the heavier taste of miso ramen, Ichifuku is serving homely Japanese-style miso ramen without any modern touches. The taste is not overwhelming, but you won’t be able to stop until finishing the whole bowl of ramen in an empty bowl.
A popular miso ramen shop highly raved about by locals.
Ichifuku Ichifuku (一福) – Tokyo Michelin Ramen
Address: 2-17-14 Honmachi, Shibuya Ward
Opening Hours: From 11.30 am to 3 pm or when the ramen runs out.
Gyoza | 餃子
Gyoza
The delicious Japanese gyoza is similar to Chinese jiaozi dumplings. It is made with the perfect ratio of juicy pork and vegetable filling with soft skin. Dipped with lightly vinegary sauce with a dash of yuzu pepper, gyoza is absolutely unbeatable.
Sampling gyoza isn’t too hard as one can easily get it in ramen shops. The reason is simple. A perfect accompaniment to your ramen is gyoza or garlic fried rice. Japanese people love to order a bowl of ramen with a plate of gyoza, or a small bowl of garlic fried rice for a complete meal. Some shops even offer the combo meal to order with two or with all three.
Tendon | 天丼, てんどん
When you travel to Japan, it might be a good idea to eat Tendon by experience the Japanese food culture. The classic tendon is a Japanese traditional donburi dish that consists of a bowl of rice topped with tempura. The main ingredient can be prawns, squid, and vegetables, coated with wheat flour and then deep-fried into perfection. These crispy tempura are then served with their in-house secret house with rice.
Where to eat the best tendon in Tokyo: There are many Japanese restaurants serving Tendon. But for the best tendon in Tokyo, just proceed to go to Asakusa to try the authentic tempura with rice. There are few famous restaurants in Asakusa serving their tendon, such as Tempura Daikokuya, Tempura Masaru, Shitamachi Tendon Akimitsu.
Daikokuya Asakusa
There are many histories about the origin of tendon and Daikokuya Asakusa is probably one of the few restaurants that started it. The Daikokuya Asakusa served tendon at the beginning of the Meiji period and is still open today. It is famous for its soft and soggy tempura dipped in its secret black sweet sauce. This is something different from the normal crispy tempura that we normally ate.
Address: 1 Chome-38-10 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Opening Hours: 11:00 am to 8:30 pm (Daily)
Yakitori | 焼き鳥
Yakitori is a Japanese style of tasty skewed chicken meat seasoned with sweet soy or salt that is grilled over a charcoal fire. Chicken meat is the most common item but it can also serve hard-core meat such as heart, opal, skins, liver, and other internal organs.
Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho
Yakitori at Omoide Yokocho
The best places to enjoy yakitori in Tokyo are at an izakaya or Yakitori specialty restaurants. We recommended trying the yakitori in Omoide Yokocho (Memory lane aka Piss alley). It’s a narrow alleyway next to the bustling Shinjuku station with lots of tiny restaurants or stalls on both sides, mainly for yakitori and kushiyaki.
Omoide Yokocho is a regular place for Japanese workers to come for after-work happy hour. The area is full of yakitori smell and cheering sounds. You can hear people chit-chatting and cheering for food with friends along the alley.
We just pick a counter-style Japanese stall with seats available and start enjoying our food. The yakitori is delicious but what really enjoy is the atmosphere. A truly memorable experience.
Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho
Opening hours: Depend on the stall. Normally from late afternoon and until late midnight.
Unagi | 鰻
Unagi or freshwater eel is a traditional food and beloved delicacy in Japan. This delicious dish is rich in vitamins, protein, minerals, and is easy to digest. Locals even believe unagi can provide stamina and energy on hot days. So it is a high demand in summer or on a sunny day.
Unagi can be served in a variety of cooking methods. You can eat unagi sushi at most of the sushi restaurants or head over to the unagi specialties store.
Nadai Unatoto Ueno shop
Unagi – Nadai Unatoto Ueno shop
The unagi dishes can be very pricey due to the difficulty in catching eel and food processing. It can be ranging from ¥3,000 to ¥5,000 depending on the eel quality. We found a budget best value Unagi specialties shop, Nadai Unatoto Ueno shop. It served the unadon (grilled sliced eel topped over a bed of rice) with the breaking price of ¥500 to ¥1,000.
The unagi served in Nadai Unatoto is soaked in their in-housel sauce and then charcoal-grilled it. Although the price of unagi in Nadai Unatoto is cheap, the quality is still good. It has a pleasant salty-sweet flavor and is perfect to eat together with rice. The amount of unagi is not many but worth the price paid.
Nadai Unatoto Ueno shop
Address: 6-11-15, Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 110-0005, Japan
Opening Hours: From 11:00 am to 11:00 pm
Udon | うどん
Similar to ramen, Udon is one of the best cheap food in Tokyo. For less than 1,000 JPY, you would be able to enjoy an excellent noodle meal in one of the world’s most expensive cities, Tokyo. Udon is a thick noodle made from wheat flour, used in Japanese cuisine. The wholewheat noodles are thicker than soba noodles and are widely used in a Japanese restaurant in various hot and cold dishes.
Udon is the most common staple food in Japan. It is tasty, healthy, and affordable. Eat your way and slurp noodles at the cheap Udon restaurant during your Tokyo food hunt!
Shin Udon
One of the popular best Tokyo Udon shops is Shin Udon. This famous Tokyo Udon shop is listed by Trip Advisor as the “2020 Travelers Choice” and Time Out as the “Best Udon in Tokyo”. It is a little shop, with six seats at the counter. So it is always packed at all times.
The udon from Shin Udon Shinjuku is hand-made and the ingredients are top quality. The Udon is fresh to order and you can see the chef is preparing the Udon dishes in front of you. Besides, the Udon can be served in cold, hot soup, or just warm with butter and egg. Their signature ‘carbonara udon’ is one of the must-try if you’re visiting this tiny shop. The udon is topped with grated cheese and butter. I highly recommended the beef udon and tempura and topped with a runny soft-boiled egg, The broth is tasty and the toppings were so divine!
Address: 2 Chome-20-16, Yoyogi, Shibuya City, Tokyo 1F
Opening Hours: 11:00 to 23:00 (Fri – Sat), 11:00 to 22:00 (Sun – Thu)
Japanese Dessert, Cake, and Pastry
A food hunt in Tokyo wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the cafe. There are many unique cafes you should try in Tokyo such as the cat cafe, owl cafe, maid cafe, and other nice cafes in Tokyo. Although this might not a must-eat food in Tokyo, I’d still recommend trying it while in Tokyo.
Most of the animal cafe is scattered in Harajuku and Shinjuku area.
Harbs Mille Crepe
Harbs Mille Crepe
If you enjoy desserts, then you will want to try Harbs. The Nagoya cake specialties, Harb is famous for its hand-make cake. It has more than 20 cakes but their Mille crepe is definitely divine. The fruit-based Mille Crepe is overwhelmingly the most popular item in the restaurant. The six layers of crepes are packed with seasonal fruits with fresh whipped cream. It is super light, fluffy, and melts in your mouth. You can taste the freshness of fruits and cream. A taste of heaven!
A slice of Mille crepe cost about ¥830 in a good serving portion. But you need to order a drink per pax for a minimum order if eat in the restaurant. Watch out for the queue and expected to wait to taste it.
Harbs Lumine Est Shinjuku
Address: 38-1, Shinjuku 3 Chome, Shinjuku Tokyo Prefecture
Opening Hours: 10:30 am to 9:30 pm (Daily)
Harajuku Crepe
For dessert lovers, make sure you have an empty stomach when strolling along Takeshita street in Harajuku. Harajuku is well-known for its mouthwatering crepe. The Harajuku crepe is not a traditional style of crepe. It can be created from millions of different kinds of topping such as ice cream, fruits, and cheese and not just put on the Nutella. It is folded into a cone holder into Harajuku-style crepe!
Harajuku Crepe – Marion Crepe
There are several stalls that serve this delicious dessert on Takeshita street. But the two popular crepe stores that gaining a lot of attention are Angel Crepes and Marion Crepes.
Harajuku Crepe – Angel Heart
We tried the Harajuku crepe from both Marion Crepe and Angel Heart. It is difficult to say which one is better. In our opinion, just grab one with a shorter line when you are there.
There are so many different types of topping that you can mix and match or directly get the one recommended from the menu. Any crepe with fruits, cheese, and ice cream is highly recommended.
Marion Crepes
Address: Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Jingumae, 1 Chome−6−15 ジュネスビル 1F
Opening Hours: From 10:00 am to 8:00 pm at weekend and 10:30 am to 8:00 pm on Weekday
Angels Heart
Address: 1 Chome-20-6 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan
Japanese Street Food
Tokyo is filled with amazing Japanese street food. You can sample a variety of Japanese street food in small food stalls, called Yatai Japanese streets, or at festivals. It is the best place where you can find some Japanese dishes such as grilled seafood such as scallops, prawns, or fish, takoyaki, yakisoba, taiyaki (鯛焼き fish-shaped waffles), Mitarashi dango (みたらし団子) and more.
I enjoyed my time sampling different types of flavorful Japanese street food in Tokyo.
Ayu no shioyaki
Ayu no shioyaki, an ancient method of grilling whole small fish, ayu with salt on an open fire. Try it when we bumped into a food festival in Ueno Park.
Tamagoyaki
Tamagoyaki (玉子焼き) – Japanese Rolled Omelette, which is made by rolling together several layers of cooked egg. Sweet yet savory snack.
We ate this delicious Tamagoyaki in one of the food stalls in the Tsukuji market.
Western Food in Tokyo
Like many modern cities, there’s no end to Western food in Tokyo. If you’re too much local Japanese cuisine, I’d recommend trying to eat Western food in Tokyo. All the Tokyo’s best Western food recommended below is very popular among locals and tourists.
Luke’s Lobster Shinjuku
Luke’s Lobster Omotesando
The huge population of Tokyo makes this city a great place to learn about different food cultures and cuisine from a foreign countries. In Shinjuku, there is many fusion of Japanese and Western food to try out. My pick for the best food to try in Shinjuku is Luke’s Lobster. It is something that you can die for if you are a lobster lover.
The lobster was fresh cuts with generous goodness in a tasty sauce, with a soft, buttered sandwich roll. It was so juicy and succulent. Remember to go for the US version. I’m sure you’ll love it too.
It usually has a line and you won’t miss it when passing Shinkuju. However, the service is fast and efficient. Just grab it and eat it on the go. There are no eating tables but you can have them on the two ready benches located on the sidewalk. The price is on the high side at about ¥1500. But you won’t go wrong trying it once when you are in Tokyo.
Luke’S Lobster Omotesando
Address: Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Jingumae, 6 Chome−7−1 1Ｆ
Opening Hours: From 10:30 am to 8:30 pm (Daily)
Overview: Tokyo Must-Eat Food
Thanks for reading my Tokyo food guide! We hope our Tokyo food guide can give you some tiny idea of where to find the best food in Tokyo.
The above Tokyo’s best food is just a minor part of Tokyo’s culinary delights, and you could even find more days eating throughout the city. Sometimes I really wish I can have a big stomach and more time when visiting Tokyo. There are so many must-eat foods on my Tokyo food bucket list. Let’s start to plan for another food trip to Tokyo!
Are you visiting Tokyo and would like to share your best eats in Tokyo? We’d love to hear from you.
How To Plan your trip to Tokyo (Must read for first-time visitors):
We spend three nights at D8 Hotel Budapest and highly recommend its comfortable rooms and reasonable price. Situated nearby the Danube bank, the location is central and very close to many top attractions. Exceptional value for money!
During our Central Europe trip, Budapest is one of our favorite cities for 2 weeks. There are so many options for places to stay in Budapest that choosing is quite difficult! Although most of the areas are connected with a metro station, it was still a headache to choose the best hotel to stay in Budapest that suits our budget and most importantly easy for us for getting around.
Glad that we found D8 Hotel Budapest that perfectly suits our budget and requirement. It is a 3-star superior boutique-style hotel located near the Danube river, the heart of the Budapest. The trendy comfort room enlightens our visit to Budapest.
If you want a great hotel in a nice part of the city, you won’t go wrong with this one. Read on below on our D8 Hotel Budapest Review.
My Stay at D8 Hotel Budapest
Lounge Area D8 Hotel
When we first walked into the hotel, we were amazed by the lively and buzzing hotel lobby. The lounge is decorated in great standard with a modern funky style. Has the feel of a cool start-up for our Budapest trip!
The reception staff could speak good English and happily assist with every question from us. We had a pleasant check-in experience. They help keep our luggage without any additional charge so that we could wandering around before our check-in time.
Travel Tips: When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Budapest check prices for Best Hotel from Booking.com. We found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.
Family Room with Two Seperate Room
My room in D8 Hotel
Newly opened, so all the facilities in the D8 Hotel were very new. We booked a family room for 4 adults and it is separated by two different rooms with two queen size beds.
D8 Hotel Budapest – Family Room
The size was slightly smaller so it furnished in a smart way to make you feel comfortable. The organization of the interior is optimal and they are very clean and feel comfortable. We got no complaints as it is a standard sizing room for a hotel in the heart of the city. It couldn’t be in a better location especially with the price pay!
Our room overlooked to an inner courtyard connected to the breakfast room.
The bathroom is also in great sizing and compact with everything that you need for a big hot shower. The water pressure was just perfect!
Budapest D8 Hotel: Once we dropped off your luggage, we can start to explore and strolling along the Danube bank. Moreover, lots of restaurants and eateries within walking distance.
Strategic Location
The location is truly amazing. It is located 2 minutes walk to Vorosmarty Square and the surrounding shops, 5 minutes walk from the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, and within 10 minutes walk of a number of other prime tourist locations. Easy to reach by 100E bus from the airport with a little walk to the hotel.
The perfect location is really a great plus and we can get to everywhere in town by a simple little walk or by taking any kind of transportation.
Dining Area and Breakfast
The bar and gathering spaces were so inviting too. There is a coffee machine for free espresso, hot coffee, or cappuccino for free which we appreciated a lot. It was very relaxing to have a coffee at the lounge after a walk in Budapest city.
Such a cool and chill place to hang out with friends and family.
Breakfast at D8 Hotel Budapest
There are great selection of restaurants for food nearby. But we booked for the breakfast during our last day before depart to next destination. The buffet breakfasts offered an incredible variety and unlimited supply of foods and very little cost.
We had the fresh juice with the continental style food such as hotdog sausages, bacon, scrambled eggs. and the pastries. The cereal with milk make for a complete breakfast. Everything is fresh, well presented with the great drink.
There are a pancake maker which we seldom see this at other hotel. The dining area was spacious with indoor area and also a greenery outdoor area which open during Summer.
D8 Hotel Budapest Review
Room view to the outdoor dining area.
All in all, we highly recommended D8 Hotel Budapest for your stay in Budapest. A great clean room which neat amenities. Although the room is slightly smaller, it worth the penny for the price pay. It is important to note that D8 Hotel is not a luxury hotel, but a mid-range one, with everything you’ll need with exceptional value. In short, Budapest was truly fantastic, but this little gem made our trip even more memorable. A great hotel and it would definitely stay here again!
Nowadays, D8 Hotel gained popularity among travelers. Book early before the rooms get sold out. (Check Best Price now)
For more Budapest hotel in another neighborhood, feel free to read on our accommodation guide:
During my recent trip to Kyushu, we spend two nights in Beppu and had an amazing time there. We stayed in Nogami Honkan Ryokan and really enjoy it. Read more on my hotel review on Nogamihonkan Ryokan, one of the popular picks in Beppu for ryokan stay.
Located in Oita prefecture, Beppu is one of the popular attractions in Kyushu. Popular for its hot spring Beppu is perfect for travelers to plan for one night or two nights stay. Many people are traveling from Yufuin, Kurokawa Onsen, or even Hakata (Fukuoka) by train or bus for a holiday gateway.
We were looking for a budget to mid-range accommodation during my trip to Beppu. We discover Nogami Honkan Ryokan (べっぷ野上本館) and only paid for about $80 USD per night for the Japanese room in a hot spring hotel. What a deal!
Nogomi Honkan Ryokan
Nogamihonkan Ryokan is located about 10 minutes walk from Beppu station. Upon exiting Beppu station, follow the navigation, we walked straight along the main road to the hotel.
Beppu Kitahama bus stop nearby NogamiHonkan
If you are getting to Beppu by bus, you might get off at the Beppu Kitahama bus stop in front of the mall, which located 2 minutes walk to NogamiHonkan.
NogamiHonkan Traditional Japanese Room
Once arrived, we were greeted by the friendly staff. We got a traditional Japanese style room, which was spacey enough for two-person. My room was set up in the traditional Japanese style with a futon bed and tatami flooring. They also provide the Yukata dress for guests.
Beppu Hotel Tips: We recommended to stay nearby Beppu Station for easy getting around and food hunting. The Nagomi Honkan Ryokan is located about 8 minutes walk from the station. It has a traditional Japanese ryokan with modern facilities with hot spring facilities. Popular pick in Beppu.
Nogami Honkan Onsen Bath
For in-house guests, you can free to use the public onsen (female and male separate) or reserve private onsen at additional charges. There are three private hot springs to choose from.
But unfortunately, we got no opportunity to try it. We fully enjoyed the free public onsen and dipped into the hot spring as much as we can. It was almost empty most of the time and so relaxing after a tiring trip.
Common Area
Nogamihonkan Ryokan Common Area
There is a nice seating area on the second floor with couches and tables, a fridge, and a microwave. A good place to chill and relax with a lot of magazines and comics for reading. Besides, there was a machine dispensing that provide coffee, green tea, black tea, and water for free.
Japanese Dining Area
Japanese Dining Area in Nogamihonkan Ryokan
The hotel also served dinner and breakfast at an additional cost. You can book it in advance and choose to dine in the Japanese or Western dining area. It is good to add in the breakfast as there are no restaurants serving breakfasts nearby in the early morning. Just wake up in the morning and went for a delicious breakfast wearing the yukata.
The legendary public bath, Takegawara Hot Spring (竹瓦温泉) is just a 2-minute walk from the hotel. You can try the public bath or the popular sand bath at 1000 yen. Great to do it in the morning before the check-out.
Besides, you can also rent the bicycle for FREE from NogamiHonkan to tour around Beppu if your physical is strong enough. But the bicycles are limited with first come first serve.
Nogamihonkan laundry service
Another best thing to highlight is NogaminHonkan also provides self-service laundry service with washer and dryer available. Guests can use the coin laundry machine if you plan to wash your clothes during your long travel trip.
Nogami Honkan Toji Single Room
Please take note of different room types on different floors. We talked with a hotel guest and understand that her Toji room on the second floor is a type of single-room without an en-suite bathroom. She can only use the public bath and toilet outside of her room.
But she was satisfied with her room as the price is so reasonable for a single room which similar to the budget hostel. She can fully utilize all the hotel facilities including the hot spring bath with a similar price of the hostel. Such a steal! Truly one of the budgets stays in Beppu for a solo traveler.
All in all, Nogami Honkan Ryokan is an accommodation with a combination of ryokan and modern hotel. We definitely would recommend this ryokan if you are looking for a relaxing stay at a traditional Japanese hotel with modern facilities in Beppu.
The only downside is the hotel was located in the alley with restaurants and bars nearby. Some travelers review that it can be quite noisy at night time during the weekend. But we did not hear the sound during our stay. Maybe our room was facing a different direction. So if possible, bring along the earplug or try to request a quiet room.
In short, the strategic location, cozy clean room, and public onsen bath making NogamiHonkan Ryokan a popular pick in Beppu. The price was very affordable in contrast with what was provided. It was definitely worth it!
