17 Best Restaurants in Ueno to Go After Visit Ueno Zoo, Tokyo

17 Best Restaurants in Ueno to Go After Visit Ueno Zoo, Tokyo
Ueno is a beautiful area that's rich in culture and beauty, thanks to its museums and the zoo. You'll definitely need several hours to visit it entirely, so here is a list of delicious restaurants to have lunch or dinner, recommended by the best chefs in Japan.

1. Gyujutsu Kuroobi

1. Gyujutsu Kuroobi
Gyujutsu Kuroobi floor
Gyujutsu Kuroobi, tucked under Okachimachi Station, is renowned for high-quality Japanese Wagyu beef. Each cut is carefully selected and beautifully presented to showcase its flavor and sweetness, best enjoyed with simple seasonings or their range of champagnes and whiskeys. In addition to a la carte options, individually served courses come highly recommended. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere, filled with the aroma of Yakiniku and warm hospitality, accommodates 10-14 guests, making it perfect for intimate gatherings. 

Gyujutsu Kuroobi

Open: [Monday-Saturday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] Dinner 4:00 pm - 11:30 pm (L.O. 11:00 pm)
Closed: Sunday
Average price: [Dinner] 8,000 JPY
Access: About 2-minute walk from Okachimachi Station on the JR Yamanote Line and Keihin-Tohoku Line /  About 10-minute walk from Ueno Station on the JR Lines
Address: 5-10-11, Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo Map
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2. INARI Izakaya

1. INARI Izakaya
INARI Izakaya floor
INARI Izakaya, located within walking distance from the station, offers a peaceful retreat from the city's bustle. Known for its handmade dishes, the "Sui-gyoza" with house-made chili oil is a standout, with its chewy skin and juicy filling. The "Funamori sashimi platter" and "Natural yellowtail shabu-shabu" are also must-tries. The restaurant features private rooms with a warm, wooden interior, making it perfect for dates, trips, or work parties. It’s especially recommended during the quieter early part of the week.

INARI Izakaya

Open: Dinner 3:00 pm - 12:00 am (Food L.O. 11:00 pm / Drink L.O. 11:30 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY
Access: 1-minute walk from Asakusa Exit of Ueno Station. 2-minute walk from Exit 9 of Ueno Station on Tokyo Metro. 5-minute walk from the main entrance of Keisei Ueno Station on the Keisei Main Line.
Address: 6F, 7-2-1, Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo Map
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3. Ayakaritai

5. Ayakaritai
Ayakaritai floor
Ayakaritai offers delicious food and rare sake while preserving tradition. Its signature dish, “Hegi Soba,” features bite-sized noodles made with seaweed, a specialty from Echigo. Skilled chefs create a la carte dishes with fresh, daily-stocked ingredients. A highlight is the Japanese Sake Shop at the entrance, where you can enjoy or take home carefully selected brews. 

Ayakaritai

Open: [Weekdays, Day Before National Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 3:00 am (Food L.O. 2:00 am / Drink L.O. 2:30 am), [Saturday] Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (Food L.O. 10:00 pm / Drink L.O. 10:30 pm)
Closed: Sunday, National Holidays 
Average price: [Dinner] 6,000 JPY
Access: 3-minute walk from JR Okachimachi Station North Exit / 2-minute walk from Ueno Hirokoji Station Exit A4 / 2-minute walk from Ueno Okachimachi Station Exit A4
Address: 1F, Ueno Shinkyo Bldg., 3-38-15, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo

4. Seiryu Unagi Tsukishima Todai Akamon-mae Branch

Seiryu Unagi Tsukishima Todai Akamon-mae Branch cuisine
15 Restaurants in Ueno Recommended by Japanese Top Chefs
During Japan’s Edo era (1603–1867), eel was a street food enjoyed by commoners, known as one of Edo’s “4 Specialties” alongside sushi, tempura, and soba. Over time, it became a high-class delicacy reserved for special occasions. This restaurant seeks to revive eel’s casual roots, offering delicious, hearty eel dishes at half the price and 1.5 times the portion of typical eel eateries—a modern, approachable take on a proud Japanese food tradition.

Seiryu Unagi Tsukishima Todai Akamon-mae Branch

Open: Lunch 11:00 am - 2:30 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) / Dinner 4:30 pm - 8:00 pm (L.O. 7:30 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 3,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,000 JPY
Access: From Hongo-sanchome Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line and Toei Subway Oedo Line, proceed along Hongo Street toward the University of Tokyo and walk for 4 minutes
Address: 5-25-18, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo Map
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5. Yakiniku Motoyama Main Branch

2. Yakiniku Motoyama Main Branch
15 Restaurants in Ueno Recommended by Japanese Top Chefs
Since its founding in Okachimachi, Tokyo, in 1975, Yakiniku Motoyama has specialized in high-quality Japanese beef, earning acclaim on TV and in magazines. With strict safety management from production to service, the restaurant offers a premium dining experience. Their signature melt-in-your-mouth yakiniku is a must-try.

Yakiniku Motoyama Main Branch

Open: 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 8,000 JPY
Access: 95m from Naka-okachimachi Station
Address: B1F, Sasamoto Bldg., 5-22-8, Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo Map
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6. Ponta Honke

Ponta Honke cuisine
Ponta Honke floor
Ponta Honke, founded in 1905, innovated Japan’s first pork cutlet, inspired by Milano-style tempura. Using carefully selected pork loin, excess fat is removed, and frying is done progressively—from low to high temperatures—yielding golden, light batter infused with the rich aroma of lard. Beyond cutlets, signature dishes like Tongue Stew and Deep Fried Oyster have charmed guests for generations. Experience the refined flavors and tradition of this historic four-generation restaurant offering exquisite Western-inspired cuisine.

Ponta Honke

Open: [Tuesday - Saturday] Lunch 11:00 am - 2:00 pm (L.O. 1:45 pm) / Dinner 4:30 pm - 8:00 pm (L.O. 7:45 pm)  [Sunday, National Holidays] Lunch 11:00 am - 2:00 pm (L.O. 1:45 pm) / Dinner 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm (L.O. 7:45 pm)
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 4,000 JPY / [Lunch] 4,000 JPY
Access: 2 minutes walk from the south exit of Okachimachi Station on JR Yamanote Line / Keihin Tohoku Line
Address: 3-23-3, Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo Map
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7. Ueno Wagyu Yakiniku USHIHACHI Kiwami

Ueno Wagyu Yakiniku USHIHACHI Kiwami cuisine
15 Restaurants in Ueno Recommended by Japanese Top Chefs
Ueno Wagyu Yakiniku USHIHACHI Kiwami, this restaurant offers A4-grade Black Wagyu female beef at reasonable prices by purchasing whole cows. You can enjoy high-quality, flavorful Japanese BBQ with various cuts prepared in unique ways, making it an excellent destination for premium yet affordable Yakiniku.

Ueno Wagyu Yakiniku USHIHACHI Kiwami

Open: [Weekdays, Day Before National Holidays] Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:30 pm) / Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:30 pm (L.O. 11:00 pm) [Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays] Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:30 pm) / Dinner 4:00 pm - 11:30 pm (L.O. 11:00 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: -
Access: 1-minute walk from Asakusa Exit (to the left as you exit the JR Central ticket gate) of Ueno Station of JR Lines, Ginza Line, Hibiya Line / 5-minute walk from Keisei Ueno Station
Address: FUNDES Ueno 10F, 7-2-4, Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo Map
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8. 76Vin

76Vin cuisine
76Vin floor
This restaurant specializes in expertly prepared yakitori, using two types of Guerande salt—fine-grain to infuse flavor and coarse to enhance it. Each skewer is freshly cut, skewered, and charcoal-grilled to order. The welcoming atmosphere features a counter perfect for solo diners, including women, and tables ideal for date nights. Friendly staff ensure a relaxed, casual dining experience, making it the go-to spot for delicious, expertly crafted grilled chicken skewers.

76Vin

Open: 18:00 - 24:00, no yakitori (grilled chicken) on Wednesday
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 4,000 JPY
Access: Go out of exit 1 of Nezu Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line. Head through the traffic signal along Genmon Street for about 30 seconds, next to Akafudado.
Address: 1F, 2-13-8 Nezu, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo Map
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9. Sushi Iho

Sushi Iho cuisine
Sushi Iho floor
In 2020, a cherished sushi restaurant opened in Hongo’s Kikusaka neighborhood, where many food-loving writers once lived. The owner, Mr. Iho, trained at renowned Tokyo establishments before creating his own space. Guided by his motto, “Once in a lifetime,” he crafts exceptional nigiri unique to each day. Offering an omakase course and a premium upgrade, the restaurant features just five counter seats. Ideal for private parties of four or more, it ensures an intimate, exclusive sushi experience for personal or business occasions.

Sushi Iho

Open: Dinner 2:00 pm - 11:00 pm (last order 9:00 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 11,000 JPY
Address: 1F, Kiku Bldg., 5-4-5 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo  Map
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10. Kamakura House

10. Kamakura House

Located just a one-minute walk from Keisei Ueno Station, Kamakura House is a stylish restaurant where you can enjoy authentic wood-fired pizza made with fresh, local ingredients from Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture. The menu features specialties such as Kamakura vegetables, whitebait, and tuna, bringing the flavors of Kamakura right to the heart of Tokyo.

Popular dishes include the “Shonan Whitebait Pizza” and the “Kamakura Vegetable Cheese Fondue,” both made with exceptionally fresh whitebait. At lunchtime, you can enjoy a set course that allows you to mix and match your favorite dishes for a customized meal experience.

10 Best Restaurants in Ueno to Go After Visit Ueno Zoo, Tokyo
With its cozy and sophisticated interior, Kamakura House offers a relaxing atmosphere that’s perfect for taking a break during your Ueno sightseeing. It’s also a great spot for groups and families, as many dishes are designed for sharing. The restaurant boasts a carefully curated selection of wines and other drinks chosen by the owner, making it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy a taste of Kamakura in Tokyo.

Kamakura House

Open: [Sunday,Saturday,Holidays] Lunch 11:30 am - 4:00 pm (last order 3:00 pm)[Wednesday - Friday] Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (last order 2:30 pm)[Wednesday,Thursday] Dinner 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm (last order 9:00 pm)[Friday,Saturday] Dinner 5:30 pm - 10:30 pm (last order 9:30 pm)[Sunday,Holidays] Dinner 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm (last order 8:30 pm)
Closed: When Monday is a holiday it is open
Average price: [Dinner] 4,000 JPY / [Lunch] 1,000 JPY
Access:
Address: APA Hotel Keisei Ueno Station 1F, 2-14-26 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo Map

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11. Cross over to Sado Island Ueno

11. Cross over to Sado Island Ueno
Located just a one-minute walk from Ueno Station, Sadojima e Watare Ueno is a seafood izakaya where you can savor the taste of Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture without leaving Tokyo. The restaurant serves fresh, seasonal seafood delivered directly from Sado City. One of the most popular dishes is the “Raw Oysters” made with fresh Pacific oysters caught in the waters off Sado, available year-round. Another highlight is the “5-Piece Fresh Fish Platter Directly from the Farm,” a beautifully presented selection of seasonal fish.
10 Best Restaurants in Ueno to Go After Visit Ueno Zoo, Tokyo
The interior features a calm, traditional Japanese atmosphere, and all seating is in private rooms, making it perfect for couples, families, and groups. Rooms can accommodate between 2 and 30 guests, and some even offer lovely night views through the windows. The restaurant also offers a fine selection of sake from Niigata Prefecture and Sado Island, allowing you to fully enjoy the rich flavors of Niigata’s cuisine and sake right in the heart of Tokyo.

Cross over to Sado Island Ueno

Open: [Sunday,Saturday,Holidays] 12:00 pm - 12:00 am (last order 11:00 pm)[Weekday,Day Before Holidays] 5:00 pm - 12:00 am (last order 11:00 pm)
Closed: *We are closed on January 1st.
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY / [Lunch] 5,000 JPY
Access:
Address: 2-12-1 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo Central 21 7F Map

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12.Ikina Sushi Hyakumangoku

12.
Located just a seven-minute walk from Ueno Station, Iki na Sushi Hyakumangoku is a sushi restaurant where you can enjoy authentic, expertly crafted sushi in a relaxed setting. The fish used for the sushi is stored in a custom-made ice refrigerator, which helps preserve its natural flavor and texture. Unlike standard glass display cases, ice refrigerators prevent the fish from drying out and maintain the ideal temperature without becoming too cold.The Chef’s Select Nigiri Course features 14 pieces of sushi, including premium cuts of tuna and squid, along with a sushi roll and dessert. For those who love shellfish, the Abalone Steak and Boiled Abalone—both prepared with exceptionally fresh abalone—are highly recommended.
10 Best Restaurants in Ueno to Go After Visit Ueno Zoo, Tokyo
The restaurant’s warm, wood-accented interior offers a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, with counter seats, tables, and private rooms available. Even if it’s your first time dining at a sushi counter, you can relax and fully enjoy the experience at Iki na Sushi Hyakumangoku.

Ikina Sushi Hyakumangoku

Open: [Weekday,Saturday] Lunch 11:00 am - 2:00 pm (last order 1:30 pm)[Saturday] Dinner 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm (last order 8:00 pm)[Weekday] Dinner 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm (last order 9:00 pm)
Closed: Sundays and public holidays
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY / [Lunch] 15,000 JPY
Access:
Address: Tokyo, Taito-ku, Higashi-Ueno 2-11-5 Ebato Building 1F Map

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13. Ushigaraseru

Located just a seven-minute walk from Ueno Station, Ushigashira Cell is a Wagyu beef yakiniku restaurant directly operated by a trusted meat wholesaler, ensuring the highest quality cuts of beef. Guests can savor dishes such as the “Wagyu Beef Yakiniku 5-Kind Platter” and “Wagyu Kalbi,” where the rich flavor of the meat deepens with every bite.
10 Best Restaurants in Ueno to Go After Visit Ueno Zoo, Tokyo
If you’re unsure what to order, the set course meals are an excellent choice, as they include vegetables, rice, and soup for a well-balanced experience. For a truly premium treat, the “Ushiwokiwameru” course offers an indulgent selection of the finest and rarest cuts of Wagyu beef. An all-you-can-drink option can also be added to any course.
For a more casual visit, the restaurant offers a satisfying lunch set menu at great value. With its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, Ushigashira Cell is the perfect place to enjoy authentic Wagyu yakiniku at your own pace.

Ushigaraseru

Open: [Weekday] Lunch 11:30 am - 2:00 pm (last order 1:30 pm)[Sunday,Saturday,Holidays] Lunch 11:30 am - 2:00 pm (last order 1:15 pm)[Weekday,Saturday] Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (last order 10:00 pm)[Sunday,Holidays] Dinner 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm (last order 9:00 pm)
Closed: Year-end and New Year holidays 1/1 store closure
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY / [Lunch] 1,500 JPY
Access:
Address: Shinsen Building 1F, 1-4-3 Kitaueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo Map

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14. Yakiniku Tomihisa

14. Yakiniku Tomihisa
Located just a four-minute walk from Uguisudani Station, Yakiniku Tomihisa is a restaurant where you can savor the finest A5-ranked Kuroge Wagyu beef, known for its exceptional marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Among the many delicious offerings, the Wagyu Yakisuki—featuring lightly seared Kuroge Wagyu dipped in rich egg yolk—is especially popular. Another highlight is the Assorted Three-Piece Red Meat Platter, which lets you enjoy rare and flavorful cuts of beef.
10 Best Restaurants in Ueno to Go After Visit Ueno Zoo, Tokyo

A wide range of course meals is available, from simple sets to luxurious options featuring premium cuts, as well as courses with a two-hour all-you-can-drink plan. The restaurant’s stylish interior, accented with warm wood tones, creates a welcoming and refined atmosphere. Seating includes both tables and private rooms, making it suitable for various occasions.

With its relaxed and comfortable setting, Yakiniku Tomihisa is also ideal for solo travelers who want to enjoy authentic Japanese yakiniku at their own pace—truly a restaurant worth remembering during your Tokyo visit.

Yakiniku Tomihisa

Open: Dinner 5:00 pm - 12:00 am (last order 11:00 pm) / Lunch 11:30 am - 2:30 pm (last order 2:00 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY / [Lunch] 1,000 JPY
Access:
Address: 1F Tokyo Building, 3-25-8 Negishi, Taito-ku, Tokyo Map

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15. Iriya Kishimojin-monzen Nodaya

Located just a one-minute walk from Iriya Station, Daya is a specialty eel restaurant situated in front of the Iriya Kishimojin Gate. The restaurant’s signature dish, “Unagi (Eel) Marinated in Vinegar with Uraume Sashimi,” features raw eel marinated in a secret vinegar blend and served with a refreshing plum sauce—a truly unique way to experience eel.
10 Best Restaurants in Ueno to Go After Visit Ueno Zoo, Tokyo

In addition to classic eel dishes, Daya offers a wide variety of creative eel-based specialties prepared by chefs who are true experts in eel cuisine. Since it takes about 40 minutes to grill the eel to perfection, guests can enjoy their time with a selection of carefully chosen local sake, as well as shochu, sours, and wine.

The restaurant features a modern Japanese interior with a calm and stylish ambiance. Seating options include tables, a relaxing annex area, and a cozy, lounge-style second floor, making it an ideal spot to enjoy high-quality eel dishes in comfort.

Iriya Kishimojin-monzen Nodaya

Open: [Tuesday-Sunday, National Holidays, Day before National Holidays] Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) / Dinner 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm (L.O. 8:00 pm) *Closed for lunch and dinner when sold out.
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 8,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,000 JPY
Access: 30 seconds walk from Exit 2 of Iriya Station on Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line. 5 minutes walk from South Exit of Uguisudani Station on JR Lines.
Address: 2-3-1, Shitaya, Taitou-ku, Tokyo Map

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16. Kazumiya

12. Kazumiya
Located just a four-minute walk from Yushima Station, Kazumiya is a Japanese restaurant where you can experience the beauty of Japan’s four seasons through carefully crafted dishes made with seasonal ingredients. The restaurant offers a nine-course set menu, featuring authentic Japanese cuisine—from beautifully arranged appetizers and fresh sashimi to delicately simmered and perfectly fried dishes.
10 Best Restaurants in Ueno to Go After Visit Ueno Zoo, Tokyo

Kazumiya has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, making it easy to enjoy your meal at your own pace. Guests can choose between table seating and counter seating, where you can watch the chef at work. In addition to the exquisite cuisine, the restaurant is known for its beautiful collection of Japanese tableware. The owner, a passionate tableware collector, has personally traveled to various shops across Japan to curate each piece.

This popular restaurant often fills up quickly, so reservations are highly recommended for those who want to enjoy a truly authentic Japanese dining experience.

Kazumiya

Open: [Weekdays, Saturday, National Holidays, Day before National Holidays] 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Closed: Sunday
Average price: [Dinner] 6,000 JPY
Access: 4 minutes walk from Yushima Station on Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line / Okachimachi Station on JR Yamanote Line or Keihintohoku Line
Address: 1F, Imas Sunny Bldg., 1-11-9, Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo Map

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17. Craft Burger & Grill Jiro

4. Craft Burger & Grill Jiro
15 Restaurants in Ueno Recommended by Japanese Top Chefs
Craft Burger & Grill Jiro, located in Matsugaya, Tokyo, specializes in 100% lean beef craft burgers and original Japanese-inspired options. They offer fresh sides like steamed-and-fried French fries and craft beers for perfect pairings. Families can enjoy kids’ menus, while pets are welcome during dinner time, making it ideal for family outings. Combining quality ingredients with a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a great spot to relax, savor unique flavors, and spend time with loved ones—including your furry friends.

Craft Burger & Grill Jiro

Open: [Tuesday-Sunday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] Lunch 11:00 am - 4:00 pm (L.O. 3:45 pm) / Dinner 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 9:30 pm)
Closed: Monday 
Average price: [Dinner] 3,000 JPY / [Lunch] 1,500 JPY
Access: 10-minute walk from Ueno Station and 15-minute walk from Asakusa Station
Address: 1F, Yuheim Kume, 2-31-7, Matsugaya, Taito-ku, Tokyo Map
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There are still a ton of restaurants with various tastes in Ueno, which has been prosperous since long ago as the gateway to northern Tokyo. Go around the area while eating and discover your favorite!

Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.

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