[Tokyo] 20 Must-Try Best Restaurants Recommended by Locals Discover Oishii Japan -SAVOR JAPAN -Japanese Restaurant Reservation Guide-

Update-date: Mar 10 2025

Author: SAVOR JAPAN

[Tokyo] 20 Must-Try Best Restaurants Recommended by Locals

Offering all sorts of cuisines, Tokyo is home to a huge number of delicious restaurants that make gourmet lovers smack their lips. Check out this selection of 20 Japanese delicacies and where to enjoy them.

See full listings of Japanese Cuisine restaurants found in and around Tokyo.

1. [Yakiniku] USHIGORO Bambina Shimbashi Branch

USHIGORO Bambina Shimbashi Branch cuisine

USHIGORO Bambina exclusively uses A5 grade Japanese black wagyu, perfectly paired with wines chosen by a renowned expert. Despite reasonable prices, the quality is comparable to high-end wine. They encourage the enjoyment of their premium meat with these wines. Upholding the concept of "Offer the incredibly delicious meals at reasonable prices!", they assure an exciting dining experience with outstanding value for money.

USHIGORO Bambina Shimbashi Branch

Open: Lunch [Weekdays] 11:30 am - 2:00 pm *Dinner except for National Holidays [All Days] 5:00 pm - 12:00 am (L.O. 11:00 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 6,000 JPY
Access: Turn right at the main road behind the Yamada Denki in front of the Hibiya Exit. Turn right at the blue Karaoke Tetsujin sign, and it is a 10 second walk through Karasumori Shrine
Address: 1F Misawa Bldg., 2-15-3, Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo Map
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2. [Sushi] Akasaka Sushi Ohtani

Akasaka Sushi Ohtani blends traditional Edomae sushi with innovative touches, creating a dining experience that transcends Japanese cuisine. The full-course menu, featuring over 20 dishes, harmoniously balances sushi with à la carte options, evolving monthly to offer fresh, unique flavors. Crafted by Mr. Ohtani, whose expertise includes Michelin-starred training and international experience, each dish is a delightful creation. The intimate counter-only seating fosters close interaction with the chef, making it ideal for dates, business, or celebrations. Ohtani promises to elevate your special moments into unforgettable experiences.

Akasaka Sushi Ohtani

Open: [Monday, Tuesday, Thursday-Sunday] Lunch Part 1: 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm / Part 2: 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm, Dinner Part 1: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm / Part 2: 8:30 pm - 10:30 pm (Reservations Required)
Closed: Wednesday
Average price: [Dinner] 25,000 JPY / [Lunch] 14,000 JPY
Access: 2-minute walk from Akasakamitsuke Station, 5-minute walk from Akasaka Station
Address: 2F, Dear City Akasaka Hitotsugi-kan, 4-2-3, Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan Map
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3. [Yakiniku] Yakiniku Kyodai

Yakiniku Kyodai, located on Kameido’s Chuo-dori Shopping Street, offers a bright and spacious setting for yakiniku. The restaurant’s welcoming entrance and table seating cater to groups of all sizes. Enjoy meticulously selected domestic and imported meats, including the must-try tender Japanese sirloin. The “Jo Set” offers a taste of various premium cuts. For a truly satisfying experience, opt for the 2-hour all-you-can-drink plan.

Yakiniku Kyodai

Open: [Monday - Thursday] 11:00 am - 12:00 am (L.O. 11:30 pm), [Friday, Saturday] 11:00 am - 3:30 am (L.O. 3:00 am), [Sunday] 11:00 am - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY / [Lunch] 1,000 JPY
Access: 2-minute walk from Kameido Station on the JR Sobu Line / 2-minute walk from Kameido Station on the Tobu Kameido Line
Address: 1F, Daini Maruso bldg., 5-13-7, Kameido, Koto-ku, Tokyo Map
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4. [Unagi/Eel] Hitsumbushi Nagoya Bincho Ikebukuro Parco

1. [Unagi/Eel] Hitsumbushi Nagoya Bincho Ikebukuro Parco

Hitsumbushi Nagoya Bincho Ikebukuro Parco specializes in hitsumabushi, offering an authentic Nagoya flavor. Unlike Edomae-style eel, their Jiyaki Unagi is broiled with Binchotan-Charcoal. Guests can enjoy aromatic Hitsumabushi in three ways and other Nagoya specialties like chicken wings and miso skewered cutlet. The restaurant features box seats for up to 4 people, suitable for various occasions. Experience the genuine taste of Nagoya at Bincho in Tokyo.

Hitsumbushi Nagoya Bincho Ikebukuro Parco Location

Open: Dinner 5:00 pm - 9:30 pm (L.O. 8:30 pm) / Lunch 11:00 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:30 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Lunch] 2,000 JPY
Access: On the 8th floor of IKEBUKURO PARCO, directly-connected to Ikebukuro Station
Address: 8F, IKEBUKURO PARCO Main Bldg., 1-28-2, Minami Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo Map
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5. [Japanese Cuisine] Ryouriya Somekawa

Ikedayama, near Gotanda Station, is a historic and elegant area. Nestled in a corner of Ikedayama, Ryouriya Somegawa offers a modern take on traditional Japanese cuisine. Owner Masahiro Somegawa, trained at a Ryotei in Kagawa and skilled in Noto and Kaga cuisine, sources top-quality ingredients from the Seto Inland Sea and Hokuriku for his seasonal omakase kaiseki meals. The counter seating allows guests to appreciate both the cooking process and warm hospitality. The restaurant specializes in unfiltered draft sake, served in Edo Kiriko glassware, alongside a fine selection of champagne and wine.

Ryouriya Somekawa

Open: 6:00 pm - 11:30 pm
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY
Access: 446m from Gotanda station
Address: 1F, Shin Ikedayama Mansion, 5-21-13, Higashi-Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo Map
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6. [Yakitori] Yakitori TAKE

[Tokyo] 20 Must-Try Delicious Restaurants Recommended by Locals

At this restaurant, every encounter—whether with customers or ingredients—is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From the Date chickens raised with care to the fresh vegetables, salt, and water used in cooking, every ingredient reflects the tireless efforts of producers. The restaurant values the unique individuality of each ingredient and strives to bring out its best through skill, creativity, and imagination. Every day, the team interacts with each Date chicken, grilling it into a flavorful skewer while "communicating" with the ingredients to highlight their individuality, offering a truly special taste of traditional Japanese flavors.

Yakitori TAKE

Open: [Weekdays, Saturday] 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Closed: Sunday
Average price: [Dinner] 20,000 JPY
Access: 1-minute walk from Shimbashi Station on JR Yamanote Line
Address: 3F, REVERIE SHINBASHI, 4-21-8, Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo Map
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7. [Kaiseki] Takanawa Shinzan

Takanawa Shinzan's concept is "reasonable Japanese food in a warm space," offering omakase courses based on the 24 solar terms, showcasing Japanese food culture. The interior, crafted from old pine trees, exudes warmth and comfort. Standout dishes include "Claypot Rice," noted for each grain's deliciousness, and "Torafugu (blowfish) Salad," a perfect blend of texture and flavor. With carefully selected ingredients and a wide selection of Saga Prefecture sake, the owner's hometown, it caters to all occasions. *Dishes may change seasonally.

Takanawa Shinzan

Open: [Monday-Saturday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays]] Dinner 5:30 pm - 11:00 pm (9:00 pm)
Closed: Sunday
Average price: [Dinner] 11,000 JPY
Access: 10-minute walk from Shirokanedai Station on Tokyo Metro Namboku Line / 12-minute walk from Shinagawa Station on JR Yamanote Line / 12-minute walk from Gotanda Station on JR Yamanote Line
Address: 1F, KN Shirokane-takanawa, 3-5-19, Takanawa, Minato-ku, Tokyo Map
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8. [Yakiniku] Setsugekka Ginza (Ginza)

Embark on an extraordinary culinary journey at Setsugekka Ginza, where the art of yakiniku reaches its zenith. Chef Satoru Tanaka takes center stage, showcasing a symphony of flavors with the most exquisite selection of Japanese meats, including Tajima Kobe beef and Matsusaka beef. Graced by the smoky embrace of charcoal grilling, these premium cuts transcend expectations, delivering an unparalleled gustatory experience. Immerse yourself in the sophisticated ambiance of Ginza, where the chefs' live counter-kappo cooking adds an element of excitement to your meal. Setsugekka Ginza is a haven for discerning epicureans, where culinary mastery, exceptional ingredients, and an atmosphere of refined elegance converge to create an unforgettable dining adventure.

Setsugekka Ginza

Open: [Weekdays, Saturday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Closed: Sunday
Average price: [Dinner] 30,000 JPY
Access: 2-minute walk from Ginza station Exit C2. Take the direct elevator from the Nishi-Ginza parking lot. 200m from Ginza Station
Address: 9F GICROS GINZA, 6-4-3, Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo Map
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9. [Kappou] Kappou Toumyou

Toumyou, nestled in a corner of a building in Ginza, offers seasonal omakase courses in an intimate setting with only seven seats. Guests are treated to dishes crafted from the freshest ingredients sourced daily and cooked to perfection to bring out their natural flavors. Ingredients are carefully chosen, prioritizing seasonality and domestic production to showcase the diversity of Japan's regions. Japanese sake and aged wine complement the meal, while handmade, non-alcoholic craft drinks are available for those abstaining from alcohol.

Kappou Toumyou

Open: [Tuesday-Thursday] Lunch from 12:00 pm / Lunch starts at 12:00 pm only. (Closed on national holidays. Reservations are required at least 2 days in advance. Please call the restaurant directly.) *Please mention that your reservation is for Kappou Toumyou within Ginza Fugetsudo, [Monday-Friday, Day Before National Holidays] Dinner 6:00 pm - 10:30 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm) (Referrals are required.)
Closed: Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays
Average price: [Dinner] 35,000 JPY
Access: 3-minute walk from B7/B9 Exit of Tokyo Metro Ginza Station on Marunouchi Line, Ginza Line, and Hibiya Line / 7-minute walk from South Exit of JR Yurakucho Station
Address: 2F, Ginza Fugetsudo Bldg., 6-6-1, Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo Map
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10. [Kappou] Tarikino Kappou

Since opening in summer 2022 on the 5th floor of a Ginza 7-chome building, Tarikino Kappou has gained popularity for its exceptional taste and experience. Led by Mr. Tarikino, former head chef of Ginza and Roppongi's renowned Kappou Ukai, the restaurant offers a unique "Tarikino Theater" dining style. With counter seating and private rooms, the flexible "Omakase Course" menu adapts to guests and occasions. Reflecting the owner's warm personality, the restaurant exudes a cozy atmosphere, ensuring all guests feel relaxed and enjoy a blissful dining experience.

Tarikino Kappou

Open: [Tuesday, Wednesday] Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm) *Reservations only. / [Thursday-Saturday] 12:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm) *Reservations only. / [Sunday] Lunch 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm (L.O. 4:00 pm) *Reservations only.
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 40,000 JPY / [Lunch] 15,000 JPY
Access: 8-minute walk from Yurakucho Station on each line
Address: 5F, Takaya Ginza Bldg., 7-2-8, Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo Map
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11. [Kaiseki] Ginza Yukari

Ginza Yukari offers special courses inspired by Japan's 24 solar terms, themed "Kenbishokuen—Food that Connects Health and Beauty." Each dish is a unique culinary masterpiece crafted with seasonal ingredients, evoking the essence of the season. The restaurant's serene Japanese-style interior, adorned with Heian-period artwork, is ideal for various occasions, from formal events to dinners with international guests. With a blend of counter seating and private rooms, Ginza Yukari provides an inviting atmosphere to enjoy its themed courses.

Ginza Yukari

Open: [Monday - Friday, Day Before National Holidays] Dinner 6:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 8:30 pm)
Closed: Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays
Average price: [Dinner] 24,000 JPY
Access: 7-minute walk from Exit B7, B6 of Ginza Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line
Address: 2F, Fujii Bldg., 8-4-24, Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo Map
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12. [Wagyu/ Italian] XEX ATAGO GREEN HILLS / Salvatore Cuomo Bros.

2.XEX ATAGO GREEN HILLS / Salvatore Cuomo Bros.

With a 180-meter-high perspective and a close-up of Tokyo Tower, "Salvatore Cuomo Bros." serves precisely selected Italian and grill dishes. Indulge in the exquisite taste of Charcoal-Grilled A5 Wagyu Sirloin, cooked to perfection for a rich concentration of quality fat and flavor. The dish comes with the restaurant's seasonal sauces, customized to enhance the taste. Traditional Japanese course meals, sushi, and tempura are available in the Japanese cuisine section, "Tempura & Sushi An." "The BAR" also provides an exquisite atmosphere. Experience unparalleled luxury in a setting that resembles Tokyo's jewel box at night.

XEX ATAGO GREEN HILLS / Salvatore Cuomo Bros.

Open: Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) / Salvatore Cuomo Bros, Tempura & Sushi An / Dinner 5:30 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm) / Salvatore Cuomo Bros, Tempura & Sushi An / Cafe 11:30 am - 5:00 pm (L.O. 4:30 pm) / The BAR / bar 5:00 pm - 4:00 am( L.O. 3:00 am)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY / [Lunch] 5,500 JPY
Access: 4-minute walk from Exit A5 of Onarimon Station on the Toei Mita Line
Address: 42F, Atago Green Hills MORI Tower, 2-5-1, Atago, Minato-ku, Tokyo Map
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13. [Yakiniku] Yakiniku Motoyama Shinjuku Branch (Shinjuku)

4. [Yakiniku] Yakiniku Motoyama Shinjuku Branch (Shinjuku)

[Tokyo] 10 Must-Try Delicious Restaurants Recommended by Locals

In the country of wagyu, obtained from high-grade cattle raised in large quantities in various areas, the best way to enjoy meat is not steak, but [Yakiniku], that is basically a Japanese-style BBQ that allows you to savor several parts of the cow. Yakiniku Motoyama Shinjuku Branch is a famed restaurant that serves A5-rank premium Kuroge Wagyu. If you want to enjoy scarce cuts, order the popular [Fine Selection 3-kind Assortment] (2,880 JPY plus tax) which comprises premium top blade muscle, premium chuck tender and premium chuck rib. Alternatively, there are also rare items you won't be able to savor anywhere else like the [Kobe Beef Premium Scarce Cuts] (from 1,780 JPY plus tax), that will allow you to enjoy an assortment of scarce cuts of the king of wagyu brands.

Yakiniku Motoyama Shinjuku Branch

Open: 17:00 - 23:30 (last order 23:00)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 4,000 JPY
Access: 5 minutes on foot from JR Shinjuku Station, west exit. 1 minute from Toei Oedo line, Nishi Shinjuku Station.
Address: 2F, Daihan buildense, 7-10-12 Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo (Map)
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14.[Teppanyaki] Teppanyaki Ginmeisui GINZA

Abalone, spiny lobster, and Japanese black beef appearing on a beautifully-polished iron griddle are cooked into exquisite dishes with a good aroma and sound... you can gorgeously enjoy teppanyaki (grilled on iron griddle) with your five senses at [Ginmeisui GINZA] located on the 8th floor of GINZA GREEN with a luxury modern Japanese atmosphere ideal for adults to relax and enjoy. Our comfortable semi-private and private rooms are suited for entertaining your clients and a business meal. Our dishes are served basically as a course during lunch and dinner times, using seasonal ingredients of the land and sea. Enjoy our ultimate dishes cooked in elegant performances of the chef. Though we are a high-grade restaurant in Ginza, all of our staff under the general master chef Ayabe, we give service with a friendly attitude and wholehearted hospitality. You can enjoy the exquisite dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

Teppanyaki Ginmeisui GINZA

Open: Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 1:30 pm) / Dinner 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm)
Closed: -
Average price: [Dinner] 18,000 JPY / [Lunch] 7,000 JPY
Access: 5 minutes walk from A2 Exit of Ginza Station on Tokyo Metro Ginza Line / Marunouchi Line / Hibiya Line, or 5 minutes walk from Shimbashi Station on JR and Subway Lines
Address: 8F, GINZA GREEN, 7-8-7, Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo Map
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15. [Kushiyaki] Ukai Toriyama (Takaosanguchi / Japanese Cuisine)

12. [Kushiyaki] Ukai Toriyama (Takaosanguchi / Japanese Cuisine)

Kushiyaki is a Japanese dish made of meat, fish, and vegetables grilled on skewers. At [Ukai Toriyama], situated close to the lush green expanse of Mt. Takao, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery while eating kushiyaki made from seasonal ingredients. You must try the [Charcoal-Grilled Wagyu and Chicken]. Part of the special menu, this dish consists of tender chicken and carefully selected beef grilled over charcoal. Enjoy a meal in calm, quiet surroundings that will make you forget you are in Tokyo.

Ukai Toriyama

Open: [Monday, Wednesday, Friday] Open from 11:30 am (L.O. 7:30 pm) *Last order for the Weekday Lunch Course 3:00 pm

[Saturday] Open from 11:00 am (L.O. 7:30 pm)

[Sunday, National Holidays] Open from 11:30 am (L.O. 7:00 pm)
Closed: Tuesday
Average price: [Dinner] 9,000 JPY / [Lunch] 6,000 JPY
Access: From [Takaosanguchi Station] on the Keio Takao Line, take the free shuttle bus for 10 minutes (departures at every :00, :20 and :40). From the Takaosan Interchange it takes 3 minutes by car
Address: 3426, Minami Asakawa-machi, Hachioji-shi, Tokyo Map
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16. [Kappou] Kappou Sanchou

Kappou Sanchou, set in a renovated 60-year-old traditional Japanese restaurant, offers luxurious traditional cuisine in a relaxing atmosphere. Focusing on seasonal ingredients, it serves courses like Ozaki Beef Steak, Rockfish Shabu-Shabu Kaiseki, and Ozaki Beef Shabu-Shabu Kaiseki marinated with Shio-koji. Other specialties include Shark Fin and Soft-Shelled Turtle Hot Pot Kaiseki, rich in collagen. With a variety of seating options, including counter seats overlooking a Japanese garden and private rooms, it's suitable for varied occasions. Children are welcome on Saturdays, and dietary preferences are accommodated with advance notice.

Kappou Sanchou

Open: [Weekdays, Saturday] 5:00 pm - 11:30 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm) *Private room charge: 4,000 JPY to 14,000 JPY + an optional 10% service charge. You'll be charged the prices of pre-ordered meals for any changes made on the day.
Closed: Sunday, National Holidays
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY
Access: 9 minutes walk from JR Shibuya Station, or 5 minutes from Shinsen Station on Inokashira Line
Address: 6-1, Maruyama-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Map
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17. [Kaiseki Cuisine] Japanese Restaurant SEIZAN (Shirokane-Takanawa / Japanese Cuisine / Kaiseki)

11. [Kaiseki Cuisine] Japanese Restaurant SEIZAN (Shirokane-Takanawa / Japanese Cuisine / Kaiseki)

Kaiseki cuisine is banquet food served alongside sake at top restaurants and dining halls. At [Japanese Restaurant SEIZAN], you can try the finest dishes that showcase the flavors and aromas of quality ingredients, including organic vegetables and fresh seafood. The chef recommends the [Shell-Cooked Echizen Crab], a dish that intensifies the rich flavors of the crab innards.

Japanese Restaurant SEIZAN

Open: [Tuesday - Sunday, National Holidays, Day before National Holidays]Dinner: 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 9:30 pm )

[Tuesday, Thursday - Sunday, National Holidays, Day before National Holidays]Lunch: 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm (L.O. 1:30 pm )
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 17,000 JPY / [Lunch] 6,000 JPY
Access: 8 minutes walk from Shirokane-takanawa station on the Tokyo Metro subway
Address: B1F, Grande Mita, 2-17-29, Mita , Minato-ku, Tokyo Map
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18. [Udon] Ampuku Toranomon Hills

The signature Carbonara Udon at this restaurant, featuring a blend of bonito-based stock and butter-fried bacon, has garnered high praise. The secret to its popularity seems to lie in the traditional Japanese soup stock. The restaurant takes pride in using high-quality ingredients, particularly seasonal vegetables and "mentaiko" (fish roe). The udon noodles, made from 'Shinmenkyokaiden' flour, have a springy, smooth texture. The establishment is committed to providing excellent food, great service and a relaxing atmosphere, aiming to make every customer glad they visited.

Ampuku Toranomon Hills

Open: Dinner: 5:30 p.m.-11:00 p.m. (last orders at 10:30 p.m.); lunch: 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. (last orders at 2:30 p.m.)
Closed: None
Average price: [Lunch] 1,000 JPY
Access: About a 5-minute walk from both Kamiyacho Station and Toranomon Station
Address: Toranomon Hills 4F, 1-26 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo Map
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Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.