Recommended by Top Japanese Chefs! 14 Popular Restaurants in Shinjuku Discover Oishii Japan -SAVOR JAPAN -Japanese Restaurant Guide-

Update-date: Sep 20 2023

Author: SAVOR JAPAN

Categories: Shinjuku

Recommended by Top Japanese Chefs! 14 Popular Restaurants in Shinjuku

Shinjuku is a popular area of Tokyo, with an average of 350,000 people passing through each day. There are so many food and drink options that it’s difficult to know where to start. Here is a selection of 14 renowned restaurants that come highly recommended by Japan’s master chefs!

See full listings of restaurants found in and around Shinjuku.

1. Torishige

This historical [Motsuyaki] restaurant, Torishige, almost has a 70-year history! [Motsuyaki] are skewers of pork, chicken, or beef offal that are grilled and seasoned with salt or sauce. At Torishige, you can find a rich variety of kushiyaki (grilled skewers), including rare cuts. The most recommended item is the luxurious [Jo Tan (1,000 JPY)], which consists of 2 whole pork tongues (tongue root only) per serving. This charcoal-grilled delicacy has a delightful flavor and texture, as well as delicious, overflowing, sweet juices and fat. Another popular à la carte option is their umami-rich Wagyu (a type of high-quality beef) sirloin skewers.

◆This restaurant is recommended by: Chef Ryujiro Nakamura from Sushidokoro Umi

◆Reason for the recommendation:
The crispy texture and umami (Japanese savory taste) of the juicy [Motsuyaki] spreads in your mouth after a single bite, making this delicacy an absolute must-eat. The flavor of their dishes and their customer service is an example to us all.

Torishige

Open: 5:00 pm - 1:00 am (Last Entry & L.O. 12:00 am)
Closed: Sunday
Average price: 7,000 JPY
Address: 2-6-5, Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
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2. Kan Agari

The name of this restaurant refers to a sake warming process that allows its flavor to spread much more than usual. At Kan Agari, you can pair this sort of delicious, premium sake, which they selectively purchase from all over the country, with their special robatayaki cuisine. Their most recommended dish is the [Honjitsu no Sengyo Ipponyaki (from 1,280 JPY plus tax)]. It consists of fresh fish, directly delivered from the fishing port each day, that's been grilled on binchotan until fluffy and fragrant. To finish off your last round of drinks, try the most popular item: the famous and award-winning [Honda Yoshimitsu Takitate Tetsugama Koshihikari (1 serving of rice for 1,080 JPY plus tax, 2 servings of rice for 1,880 JPY plus tax)] that consists of Koshihikari rice from Minakami (Gunma Prefecture) that's been freshly cooked in an iron pot. They acquire the award-winning, delicious rice directly from contracted producers.

◆This restaurant is recommended by: Chef Ren Yamada from Sakedokoro Dankichi

◆Reason for the recommendation:
"It's one of the few restaurants that I admire the most. They are particularly selective with their rice, and their Koshihikari, cooked in an iron pot, has an incredible texture. Their robatayaki dishes, such as charcoal-grilled fish, are a perfect match with sake. You get to see food being prepared right in front of your eyes, so I guess that's why Kan Agari is also popular with foreign tourists."

Kan Agari

Open: [Weekdays] 5:00 pm - 12:00 am
[Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays] 4:00 pm - 12:00 am
Closed: Irregular
Average price: 5,000 JPY
Address: 3F, Shinjuku YS Bldg., 7-16-12, Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
More Details Reservation

3. Shinjuku Konya

Shinjuku Konya is a Japanese restaurant that's a short distance from the hustle and bustle of the crowded Nishi Shinjuku area. They offer seasonal [Course Meals] made with premium ingredients. You can choose from 3 courses offered at 5,000 JPY, 8,000 JPY, and 10,000 JPY. Their dishes, such as charcoal-grilled items that are heavily fragrant from being grilled on binchotan, are all beautiful and cooked with extreme accuracy and diligence. Pair them with sake and wines selected by the chef for an amazing dining experience.

◆This restaurant is recommended by: Chef Hirotada Watanabe from Sushi Konya

◆Reason for the recommendation:
Thanks to the passion of the experienced chef, who has even worked abroad, this restaurant brings to life “the excellence of new Japanese cuisine”. Shinjuku Konya is highly recommended for its attention to detail.

Shinjuku Konya

Open: [Weekdays, Saturday] Lunch 11:30 am - 2:30 pm, Dinner 5:30 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm)
[National Holidays] Dinner 5:30 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm)
*Opening hours are approximate. It is possible to reserve for different hours, so please inquire.
Closed: Sunday, Beginning and end of the year
*Upon prior reservation, it can open on Sunday as well (with total amount restrictions)
Average price: 7,000 JPY
Address: 1F, No. 12 Yamakyo Bldg., 7-13-5, Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

4. Sushi Iwase

Sushi Iwase has been attracting hordes of gourmands ever since it opened in 2012 at Shinjuku, growing into one of the most renowned sushi spots in the area. Making use of the experience gained at several famous restaurants in the city, the chef will enchant you with his [Omakase] course (from 15,000 JPY), serving you his recommended sushi alternately with other side dishes. The fresh seafood is expertly prepared and turned into splendid delicacies. There is an incredible process behind each dish, resulting in spectacular flavors. For example, when boiling the shellfish, the thick juice overflowing from the shell when you hull it is used to double its umami (Japanese savory taste). As another example, in order to enhance the quality of the fish's fat, they lightly scorch the surface and marinate it in sauces like shoyu (soy sauce) to make it even more fragrant. Their amazing work brings the deliciousness of their dishes to another level.

◆This restaurant is recommended by: Chef Makoto Abe from Sumibiyaki Hormone Manten Shinjuku West Gate Branch

◆Reason for the recommendation:
They serve the best produce of the season, preparing them in various ways so that they can have unique offerings each season. Another charming point is the sophisticated atmosphere of the restaurant.

Sushi Iwase

Open: 3:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Closed: Monday, Every 1st Sunday of the month
Average price: [Dinner] 16,000 JPY / [Lunch] 1,700 JPY
Address: 1F, Fukuchi Bldg., 3-4-1, Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
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5. Beji Take Teppanyaki & Vegetable

Kabuki-cho is the leading entertainment district of Japan, and at this popular Italian bar, you'll find the relaxing atmosphere of a true getaway from it. They serve delicious and healthy Italian cuisine made with plenty of fresh, seasonal vegetables stocked daily from the market. The modern Japanese interior, decorated in black with vivid colors, is chic and stylish. If you need a recommendation, you should try their pasta dishes. Their popular [Hatcho Miso no Bolognese (1,200 JPY)] pairs the sourness of tomatoes with the thick flavor of miso. Their [Irodori Yasai no Bagna Cauda (980 JPY)] allows you to enjoy juicy vegetables in a delicious homemade sauce.

◆This restaurant is recommended by: Chef Sho Yoshizawa from Washoku + Bar Mitsui

◆Reason for the recommendation:
Their healthy dishes made with extremely fresh vegetables are so delicious! Beji Take is a laidback restaurant that's suitable for both couples and solo diners.

Beji Take Teppanyaki & Vegetable

Open: 7:00 pm - 5:00 am
Closed: Sunday
Average price: 4,000 JPY
Address: 2F, Sazarashi Shin Kabuki-cho Bldg., 1-11-3, Kabuki-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

6. Niku Bistrot Akari

Niku Bistrot Akari serves premium meat from Japan and abroad, giving due diligence not only to the brand, but also to the seasonality and quality of the product. The space inside, filled with the sound and smell of meat grilling in the open kitchen, is lively and elegant at the same time. The menu displays a variety of charcoal-grilled lean meats and their luxurious [Tomahawk Steak (9,800 JPY)]. Pair it with your choice from around 200 types of wine. You’re in for a real treat!

◆This restaurant is recommended by: Chef Shogo Inoue from Kan Agari

◆Reason for the recommendation:
"When I'm in the mood for meat, I always end up coming here. Their specialty, the [Tomahawk Steak], is very well-priced considering its volume and quality. Make sure not to miss it!"

Niku Bistrot Akari

Open: [Weekdays] 5:00 pm - 12:00 am (Food L.O. 11:00 pm, Drinks L.O. 11:30 pm)
[Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays] 4:00 pm - 11:30 pm (L.O. 11:00 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: 5,000 JPY
Address: 2F, No. 18 Fuji Bldg., 7-16-13, Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo
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7. Vincero

The chef, who trained in Italy and now also imports wines and other ingredients, opened this restaurant so that he could ""showcase Italian culture and history through Italian cuisine"". While staying loyal to the culinary traditions rooted in each region's culture and history, he mixes in some Japanese ingredients to offer innovative and delightful dishes. Some highly recommended examples are their [A5 Wagyu Ichibo no Tagliata] that's made with A5-ranked Wagyu (a type of high-quality beef), their [Hokkaido Uni no Trofie] that makes use of uni (sea urchin) purchased directly from Hokkaido, and their [Kobuta no Porchetta] that has a deep, strong flavor. Each dish can be enjoyed on its own or with its specific Italian wine pairing.

◆This restaurant is recommended by: Chef Chihiro Shiramizu from W Omotesando

◆Reason for the recommendation:
This restaurant is the favorite of every Italian cuisine expert in Japan. At Vincero, they offer regional Southern Italian course meals made with chef-selected wines and ingredients. Their genuine homemade pasta dishes are also quite fulfilling.

Vincero

Open: Lunch 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm, Dinner 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 12,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,000 JPY
Address: 5-1-13, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

8. Grilled Aging Beef TOKYO Shinjuku Sanchome Branch

9. Grilled Aging Beef TOKYO Shinjuku Sanchome Branch

Grilled Aging Beef, a popular restaurant that's easily accessible using an elevator from Shinjuku-sanchome Station, has an aged meat store inside of it, and serves dishes made with Wagyu that's been dry-aged for over 40 days. A recommended item is the [Atsugiri Katamari Niku Grill 200g - 450g] that allows you to pick your favorite meat parts by weight. It offers more than 15 types of meat, which are served as steak. Another frequently ordered dish is the luxurious [Grilled Chuck Eye Roll (Shoulder Roast) 1 Large Slice from 800g (2,000 JPY)]. The aged meat is left to rest for a long time, allowing the umami to condense inside, resulting in a thick flavor and smell that is particularly mellow. This taste can be enhanced with a rich variety of side dishes and wines.

◆This restaurant is recommended by: Chef Yoshihiro Sakata from Steak & Italian Griante

◆Reason for the recommendation
You can choose what meat you want to order from their aged meat store. They buy whole cows so that they can serve literally every single part, even the rarest ones. The interior is gorgeous, stylish, clean, and warmly illuminated.

Grilled Aging Beef TOKYO Shinjuku Sanchome Branch

Open: [Weekdays] 5:00 pm - 11:30 pm (Food L.O. 10:30 pm, Drinks L.O. 11:00 pm)
[Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays] Lunch 11:30 am - 4:00 pm, Dinner 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm (Food L.O. 10:00 pm, Drinks L.O. 10:30 pm)
Closed: Every 2nd Monday of the month
*It will be closed the next day if it is a national holiday. Irregular closing days in August and December.
Average price: [Dinner] 6,500 JPY / [Lunch] 2,500 JPY
Address: 602, Rainbow Village, 3-5-4, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
More Details Reservation

9. FUNGO DINING Nishi Shinjuku Branch

Located close to the skyscraper area facing Shinjuku Central Park (Shinjuku Chuo Koen) stands this renowned restaurant. They offer over 100 types of wine, as well as authentic Italian dishes. Order their [Honjitsu no Sengyo no Ryori] to taste several daily specials like poele and acqua pazza, or order the [Lamb Chop Roast (3,200 JPY)], where the umami of the meat is boosted by a rich sauce that pairs the meat's juices with lavender. Their huge windows and high ceiling give you a sense of openness, and the interior is stylishly decorated.

◆This restaurant is recommended by: Chef Eiji Shino from Bistro BANYARD Ginza

◆Reason for the recommendation
It's a casual restaurant with a cozy atmosphere. They offer a rich variety of wines from every part of Italy, as well as Italian dishes made with different ingredients for every season. Perfect for not only lunch and dinner, it's also a great, friendly place for late night drinks.

FUNGO DINING Nishi Shinjuku Branch

Open: [Monday, Sunday, National Holidays] Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:30 pm), Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm)
[Tuesday - Saturday, Day before National Holidays] Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:30 pm), Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm), Bar 11:00 pm - 5:00 am (L.O. 4:00 am)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 4,000 JPY / [Lunch] 1,000 JPY
Address: 1F, 6-16-7, Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
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10. Tokori Shinjuku NOWA Building Branch

11. Tokori Shinjuku NOWA Building Branch

Tokori is only 1 minute on foot from Shinjuku Station. They serve Yamagata beef from cattle raised with care in a nature-filled environment. Some of their highly appreciated delicacies include the [Beef Assortment], which has several cuts that have different textures and sweetness of fat levels, and the hard-to-find [Yukhoe] that's made with A5 and A4 rank meat. In its modern, brown-themed interior and indirect lighting, you'll find smokeless grills! Enjoy yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) without worrying about any lingering smells.

◆This restaurant is recommended by: Chef Ken Katagiri, the owner of Kiri no Mi

◆Reason for the recommendation:
Here, you can enjoy various cuts of Yamagata beef in many a la carte dishes and courses, as well as in their awesome lunch buffet and all-you-can-eat plans. Whether you're on a date or out with a group of friends, it's the ideal place to chill while eating yakiniku.

Tokori Shinjuku NOWA Building Branch

Open: [Weekdays] Lunch 11:30 am - 3:30 pm, Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:30 pm
[Saturday] Lunch 11:30 am - 4:00 pm, Dinner 4:00 pm - 11:30 pm
[Sunday, National Holidays] Lunch 11:30 am - 4.00 pm, Dinner 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 4,500 JPY / [Lunch] 1,300 JPY
Address: 3-37-12, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

11. Banya Nishi Shinjuku Sumitomo Building Branch

12. Banya Nishi Shinjuku Sumitomo Building Branch

On the 49th floor of a skyscraper, you'll find this restaurant with private rooms that have their own doors, allowing diners to relax and enjoy great food and alcoholic drinks. The rooms are 200m above the ground and surrounded by glass windows from which you can admire the stunning view. The menu has a wide variety of options, from their [Sashimi Assortment] of fresh seafood stocked from the market, to their popular [Banya Hiden Tori no Karaage (580 JPY plus tax)], which goes well with beer. Don't forget to try their [Sukiyaki] (hot pot stew) that uses Kuroge Wagyu (a type of high-quality beef)!

◆This restaurant is recommended by: Chef Naoki Miyata from Ginza Saryo

◆Reason for the recommendation:
The view from 200m above the ground is just amazing. Their sashimi is fresh, and they have countless numbers of meat dishes, making this a great option for a fun night out with friends or for dates.

Banya Nishi Shinjuku Sumitomo Building Branch

Open: 5:00 pm - 11:30 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm) *It is possible to make a reservation for other hours, so please inquire.
Closed: None *Closed at the beginning and end of the year, as well as on the building's holidays (twice a year)
Average price: 4,500 JPY
Address: 49F, Shinjuku Sumitomo Bldg., 2-6-1, Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

12. Izakaya Umaimon Shinjuku Kabuki-cho

Enjoy seasonal produce in this izakaya that uses only premium ingredients selected by the chef at markets all over Japan. Their specialty is seafood cuisine, with more than 30 delicacies available on the menu. Their fresh fish offerings are unique and diverse. They also have lots of sake, including limited, seasonal brands. A popular dish is the [Kiki Zake Set (1,950 JPY)] that allows you to sample 3 types of sake from 10 renowned brands like the rare [Juyondai] and world-famous [Dassai]. They also offer yet-to-be discovered brands like [Daiginjo] and [Junmaishu].

◆This restaurant is recommended by: Chef Marie Sakai from Beji Take

◆Reason for the recommendation:
Umaimon is easy to access from Shinjuku Station. They truly offer lots of "umaimon" (delicious stuff), with dishes prepared on the charcoal grill and many more recipes that focus on in-season seafood and produce. As for sake, they have an unbeatable collection, including limited, seasonal, and rare brands that are practically unheard of in other restaurants.

Izakaya Umaimon Shinjuku Kabuki-cho

Open: [Weekdays, Saturday] 6:00 pm - 5:00 am (L.O. 4:00 am)
Closed: Sunday
Average price: 3,500 JPY
Address: 1F, Kabuki-cho Bldg., 1-12-6, Kabuki-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
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13. JANICE WONG

For 2 years in a row, Singaporean Janice Wong was selected as one of Asia's top patissiers by Asia's 50 Best Restaurants. Both a chef and an artist, this woman creates assiette desserts (desserts creatively arranged on the plate) that are as beautiful as art pieces, and diners can enjoy her creations at this dessert bar. The menu evolves from season to season, but if you need an example, the unique [Cassis Plum (1,950 JPY)] consists of a cold ball of blackcurrant parfait enriched with elderflower-flavored yogurt and rice puffs. It is covered with shiso umeshu (plum-flavored sake) jelly. You can have it a la carte, but it is strongly recommended to order their 5 dessert courses, which will treat you to desserts with different textures, temperatures, and aromas. Pair them with genuine cocktails made by their skilled bartenders for a genuine treat.

◆This restaurant is recommended by: Chef Takeshi Murakami from Meikyu no Kuni no Alice

◆Reason for the recommendation:
The performance you get to admire on your table is amazing. With such a great show, the whole place is on fire!

JANICE WONG

Open: [Weekdays] Lunch 11:00 am - 4:00 pm (L.O. 3:00 pm), Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (Food L.O. 10:00 pm, Drinks L.O. 10:30 pm)
[Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays, Day before National Holidays] 11:00 am - 11:00 pm (Food L.O. 10:00 pm, Drinks L.O. 10:30 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 6,000 JPY / [Lunch] 4,000 JPY
Address: 2F, NEWoman Ekisoto, 5-24-55, Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

These are the 14 restaurants that captured top chefs' hearts. What do you think? You should definitely try them when you visit Tokyo!

Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.