Experiencing the culture of a travel destination is one of the joys of traveling. If one is visiting Japan, they definitely should try Japanese cuisine. In Tokyo, the capital of Japan, there are various Japanese restaurants. This time, we introduce a casual izakaya where one can easily drop by. Enjoy not only the flavors of Japan but also the Japanese ambiance of the restaurant.
Sushi to Robata Sushiyama Shinjuku
Experience Hokkaido through sushi and tempura crafted by skilled artisans
Located just a 3-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, Sushi to Robata Sushiyama Shinjuku is a restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood from Hokkaido. The concept is 'abundantly incorporating a bit of Hokkaido's seafood and Japan's seasonal ingredients.' Starting with the signature seafood chawanmushi, the course alternates between sushi and tempura, allowing you to enjoy a variety of seasonal ingredients. There are also à la carte options available, including a rich menu with items such as "Sashimi Mori" and "Shiretoko Chicken Zangi."
The restaurant, featuring a wood-based interior, offers a calm atmosphere. Decorated with wooden bear carvings, well-known souvenirs from Hokkaido, it allows guests to feel as though they are in Hokkaido while still in Tokyo. There are approximately 1000 bear carvings on display, a truly impressive sight. The restaurant features a lively counter where guests can watch the artisans cook, as well as table seating and private table rooms. Guests can relax and immerse themselves in the feeling of a short trip to Hokkaido.
Sushi to Robata Sushiyama Shinjuku
Open:
Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm, Drink L.O. 2:30 pm) / Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm, Drink L.O. 10:30 pm)Closed:
NoneAverage price:
[Dinner] 5,500 JPY / [Lunch] 2,500 JPYAccess:
The building is next to Don Quijote, and the Komeda Coffee Shop is on the second floor.Address:
6F, Ceresa Yoei Shinjuku Bldg., 1-16-3, Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo More Details Reservation Hokkai Monja × Teppan Shabu-shabu KIBORI
Cheers with Hokkaido craft beer and monjayaki made with Hokkaido ingredients
Located just a 3-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, KIBORI, a beer hall that serves Hokkaido-produced beer and ingredients, offers draft beer and colorful beer cocktails. The specialty, "Hokkai Spillover Seafood Monja," along with the "Hokkai Salmon Chan Chan Yaki-style Monja" made with Hokkaido salmon, are highly recommended. There is also an all-you-can-drink course available, where guests can enjoy a variety of cocktails and compare different types of draft beer.
Aiming to be the most beloved Hokkaido restaurant in Tokyo, this restaurant welcomes guests with about 1,000 wooden carved bears displayed inside. Each bear, varying slightly in pose and size, offers a greeting that brings a sense of excitement and the extraordinary. At DAICHI's floor, guests can enjoy a BBQ featuring meat, cheese, and vegetables, providing an experience akin to traveling through Hokkaido.
Hokkai Monja × Teppan Shabu-shabu KIBORI
Open:
[Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays] Lunch 11:30 am - 4:00 pm, [Weekdays, Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pmClosed:
NoneAverage price:
[Dinner] 5,500 JPY / [Lunch] 2,500 JPYAccess:
The building is next to Don Quijote, and the Komeda Coffee Shop is on the second floor.Address:
7F, Ceresa Yoei Shinjuku Bldg., 1-16-3, Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo More Details Reservation Tsugumi
Enjoy unique Japanese-based dishes and natural wines
Located just a minute's walk from Higashi-Tamazawa Station, Tsugumi is a hidden gem of an izakaya nestled in a residential area. It offers dishes that blend Japanese cuisine with elements of Western, Chinese, and ethnic foods. A recommended dish is the "Today's Assorted Sashimi Platter," featuring fresh seafood delivered from across the country. You can enjoy it in various styles, from classic wasabi soy sauce to carpaccio-style and gochujang-flavored preparations.
The restaurant is located just a minute's walk from the station, yet it has the atmosphere of a secluded hideaway. Inside, there are counter seats and spaces that can be used like semi-private rooms, making it suitable for dates, family meals, or business occasions. Why not relax and stretch your wings while enjoying a selection of natural wines, primarily from Japan, curated by a sommelier?
Tsugumi
Open:
[Saturday, Sunday] Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:30 pm), [Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday] Dinner 6:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm), [Friday, Saturday] Dinner 6:00 pm - 2:00 am (L.O. 1:00 am)Closed:
WednesdayAverage price:
[Dinner] 6,000 JPY / [Lunch] 3,000 JPYAccess:
1-minute walk from Higashi-Kitazawa Station on Odakyu LineAddress:
3-7-6, Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo More Details Reservation Shimotsuki
Enjoy a variety of Japanese and Western liquors accompanied by homemade smoked dishes
Located just a two-minute walk from Hon-Hanabatake Station, Shimotsuki is an izakaya that offers a wide selection of Japanese and Western liquors. Guests can enjoy Sapporo Beer's "Shiraho no Ka", as well as shochu, seasonal sake, whiskey served with instant smoking, and sommelier-selected wines. For a perfect pairing with your drink, try the homemade smoked dishes. The "Crunchy Fried Chicken" is a specialty where the chicken is marinated in smoked soy sauce, offering a satisfying crunchy texture that complements the beverages wonderfully.
Upon entering the restaurant, one is greeted by a sophisticated and modern space. The stylish interior is sprinkled with the owner's dedication, who once ran an interior design business. The counter seats offer a homely atmosphere where one can casually drop by. While fashionable, the restaurant also retains the approachable charm typical of an izakaya. With good access from the station, why not stop by for a visit?
Shimotsuki
Open:
[Sunday,Tuesday - Saturday,Holidays,Day Before Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (last order 10:00 pm)Closed:
MondayAverage price:
[Dinner] 3,000 JPY / [Lunch] 3,000 JPYMore Details Reservation Zanshin
A unique Japanese-style sports bar themed around Kendo
Located just a 3-minute walk from Ikebukuro Station, Zanshin is a sports bar themed around the Japanese martial art of Kendo. Guests can enjoy a wide range of original dishes including the signature "Zanshin Kabuto-yaki" and "horse sashimi", as well as dishes made with fresh seafood. The restaurant also offers a variety of alcoholic beverages, including sake with Zanshin's original label, other types of sake, and shochu. The courses are named after Kendo ranks, such as Renshi, Kyoshi, and Hanshi.
At the entrance of the restaurant designed in a pure Japanese style, a sign saying 'In Practice' is hung instead of 'Open'. Inside the restaurant, the floor uses names associated with kendo, such as dojo and master's room. Bamboo swords and protective gear used in kendo are displayed, allowing guests to immerse themselves in kendo culture. Some items, including bamboo swords, are also available for purchase. Why not peek into the world of kendo as a memory of your trip to Japan?
Zanshin
Open:
[Sunday - Tuesday,Holidays] 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (last order 10:00 pm)[Friday,Saturday,Day Before Holidays] 5:00 pm - 1:00 am (last order 12:00 am)[Weekday] Lunch 11:30 am - 2:00 pm[Wednesday,Thursday] Dinner 5:00 pm - 12:00 am (last order 11:00 pm)Closed:
IrregularAverage price:
[Dinner] 4,000 JPY / [Lunch] 4,000 JPYMore Details
Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.