Unique Eateries in Tokyo

Take your taste buds on a journey of the culinary scene of Tokyo.

List of suggested eateries in Tokyo by an Australian expat, Ben Sheriff, who has lived there for 5 years. Exclusive to Noosa Travel.

1. Ebisu Yokocho - lively alley packed with reasonably priced taverns and fast food restaurants plating local delicacies. Easy to get to, about a 3 min walk East of Ebisu Station. You’ll find around 20 small eateries specialising in sushi, Korean style BBQ, seafood, and more. One eatery just specialises in different meals made from mushrooms. Open for dinner daily 5pm to 5am. A must experience for everyone travelling to Tokyo. Loved the experience.

2. Shirubee - is one of the coolest Izakaya (informal casual bar that serves alcohol and food) in Tokyo. It is very difficult to find. Exit Shibuya Station and it’s about a 5 min walk. Located at 1-11-5 Jinnan Shibuya next door to a 711. On arrival take the stairs and across the hallway is a steel door. Go through the door, cross the bridge right beside the railway tracks and there is a small sliding door. Open to find a 2 story izakaya hidden from the busy Shibuya streets. Very good food and great experience. Open 5.30pm to 10pm

3. Bills Cafe Omotesando - owned by Australian chef, Bill Grainger. This is one of 4 located in Tokyo but he also has other cafes around Japan. Excellent western food in a relaxed atmosphere. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks. Located on top floor so nice views and a great spot to have a break from shopping. Go early to avoid queues. I’ve had breakfast here and was excellent.

4. Afuri Harajuku - Michelin Star ramen restaurant. This restaurant chain specialises in ramen, which is Japanese noodle soup. It’s a very popular restaurant for both Japanese and foreigners. Kitchen is U Shape so very open and you can see the chefs at work. This is one of the better ramen restaurants and they offer a vegan ramen option. From Harajuku station head left from Takeshita exit and take a right at Nescafé Harajuku, and then it’s on your left.

5. Warayakiya Roppongi - this is a very unique and famous Izakaya restaurant (Japanese pub & restaurant). It offers traditional Japanese food specialising in straw burning flame grill that gives a unique taste. They have transformed a traditional Japanese house into a very cozy restaurant. Recommend making a reservation as very busy. Take exit 3 from Roppongi Station and it’s about 3 min walk.